Bolens 231
Power
7 hp
Production
1960
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Versa-matic
Weight
500 lbs [226 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Bolens 231 Garden Tractor
The Bolens 231 is a garden tractor produced in 1960, designed for residential lawn maintenance and light property tasks. It is part of the Bolens series and represents the compact utility machinery of the era, balancing mechanical simplicity with functional performance.
Powertrain and Engine
The tractor is powered by a Kohler K161 air-cooled, single-cylinder gasoline engine. With a displacement of 277 cc (16.94 ci) and a power output of 7 hp (5.2 kW), it provides sufficient torque for mowing and light towing. The engine is supported by a 12-volt electric starter system for reliable ignition.
Transmission and Drive
The Bolens 231 utilizes the Versa-matic transmission, which is a belt-driven continuously variable transmission (CVT). This system features a variable-geometry drive pulley with six control lever positions, allowing for a range of speeds. It provides 6 forward gears and 1 reverse gear, with interchangeable drive sprockets to adjust between high and low operating ranges.
Chassis and Dimensions
Built on a two-wheel-drive chassis, the tractor features manual steering and an open operator station. It has a wheelbase of 41.5 inches (105 cm) and a total shipping weight of 500 lbs (226 kg). The machine is compact, measuring 61.5 inches (156 cm) in length and 31 inches (78 cm) in width, with a ground clearance of 9 inches (22 cm).
Conclusion
The Bolens 231 is a specialized garden tractor well-suited for homeowners and collectors requiring a compact, maneuverable machine for lawn care. Its combination of a simple CVT transmission and a reliable Kohler engine makes it a durable choice for standard turf maintenance tasks.
Production Information of Bolens, 231
- Garden tractor
- Original price was $499 in 1960
| Manufacturer | Bolens |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Bolens, 231
| 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, 231
- 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, 231
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, 231
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Electrical System of Bolens, 231
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 66th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Bolens 231 have?
The Bolens 231 delivers 7 HP.
What years was the Bolens 231 produced?
The Bolens 231 was produced in 1960.
What engine does the Bolens 231 have?
The Bolens 231 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Bolens 231 use?
The Bolens 231 uses a Versa-matic transmission.
How much does the Bolens 231 weigh?
The Bolens 231 weighs 500 lbs [226 kg].
Is the Bolens 231 4WD?
The Bolens 231 is available in 2WD.