Bolens 230
Power
7 hp
Production
1959
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Versa-matic
Weight
500 lbs [226 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Bolens 230 Garden Tractor
The Bolens 230 is a compact garden tractor introduced in 1959, designed for residential property maintenance and landscaping duties. Built during an era of significant development in small-scale agricultural machinery, this model reflects the standard engineering practices of Bolens for mid-century outdoor power equipment.
Powertrain and Engine
The tractor is powered by a Kohler K161 single-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline engine. This unit features a 277 cc displacement and a bore/stroke of 2.875 by 2.50 inches, delivering 7 hp (5.2 kW). The system includes a 12-volt electric starter to facilitate engine ignition.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Equipped with the proprietary Versa-matic transmission, the Bolens 230 utilizes a belt-driven continuously variable transmission (CVT) architecture. It employs a variable-geometry drive pulley system with six distinct positions on the control lever, providing six forward gears and one reverse gear. Interchangeable drive sprockets allow for the adjustment between high and low speed ranges.
Mechanical and Physical Specifications
The machine operates on a two-wheel-drive configuration with manual steering and an open operator station. It has a wheelbase of 41.5 inches (105 cm) and a shipping weight of 500 lbs (226 kg). The tractor features a ground clearance of 9 inches (22 cm), with lawn and turf tires sized 4.00x8 for the front and 6-12 for the rear.
Conclusion
The Bolens 230 serves as a functional, maneuverable tool for basic property maintenance. With its 38-inch mower deck and compact dimensions, it is suited for homeowners and collectors requiring a reliable, historically significant garden tractor for light-duty landscaping tasks.
Production Information of Bolens, 230
- Garden tractor
- Original price was $509 in 1959
| Manufacturer | Bolens |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Bolens, 230
| Front tread | 31 inches [78 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 41.5 inches [105 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 500 lbs [226 kg] |
| Height | 38 inches [96 cm] |
| Length | 61.5 inches [156 cm] |
| Rear tread | 31 inches [78 cm] |
| Ground clearance | 9 inches [22 cm] |
| Width | 31 inches [78 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 4.00x8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 6-12 |
Engine Specifications of Bolens, 230
- Kohler K161
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 7 hp [5.2 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 277 cc [16.94 ci] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.875x2.50 inches [73 x 64 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Bolens, 230
Transmission variants 1
- Variable-geometry drive pulley with six positions on the control lever. Interchangeable drive sprockets provides high and low ranges.
| Transmission | Versa-matic |
|---|---|
| Type | Belt-driven CVT |
| Gears | 6 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Bolens, 230
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Electrical System of Bolens, 230
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 80th percentile of 1950s models in our database (65 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Bolens 230 have?
The Bolens 230 delivers 7 HP.
What years was the Bolens 230 produced?
The Bolens 230 was produced in 1959.
What engine does the Bolens 230 have?
The Bolens 230 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Bolens 230 use?
The Bolens 230 uses a Versa-matic transmission.
How much does the Bolens 230 weigh?
The Bolens 230 weighs 500 lbs [226 kg].
Is the Bolens 230 4WD?
The Bolens 230 is available in 2WD.