Bolens 233
Power
7 hp
Production
1961
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Versa-gear
Weight
500 lbs [226 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Bolens 233 Garden Tractor
The Bolens 233 is a garden tractor produced in 1961, designed for residential lawn maintenance and light utility tasks. It represents the compact machinery segment of the early 1960s, emphasizing mechanical simplicity and versatility for homeowners.
Powertrain
The tractor is equipped with a Kohler K161 gasoline engine. This air-cooled, single-cylinder, horizontal-shaft engine provides 7 horsepower (5.2 kW) from a displacement of 277 cc (16.94 ci). The engine features a 73 x 64 mm bore and stroke, and users have the option of either manual recoil or electric starting, supported by a 12-volt electrical system.
Transmission and Drive
The Bolens 233 utilizes a Versa-gear belt-driven CVT transmission. This system incorporates a variable-geometry drive pulley featuring six positions on the control lever, combined with a two-speed range shift, resulting in a total of 12 forward and 2 reverse gears. The tractor operates on a two-wheel drive configuration.
Chassis and Dimensions
Built with an open operator station, the tractor features manual steering for direct control. It has a wheelbase of 41.5 inches (105 cm) and a ground clearance of 9 inches (22 cm). With a total length of 61.5 inches (156 cm) and a width of 31 inches (78 cm), the machine weighs 500 lbs (226 kg). It is fitted with 4.00x8 front tires and 6-12 rear tires designed for lawn and turf applications.
Conclusion
The Bolens 233 serves as a functional, vintage garden tractor suited for small-scale property maintenance. Its combination of a variable-speed transmission and compact dimensions makes it a representative example of early 1960s domestic landscaping equipment.
Production Information of Bolens, 233
- Garden tractor
| Manufacturer | Bolens |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | $623 (1958 234 ) |
| Original price | $548 (1961 233 ) |
Dimension and Tires Information of Bolens, 233
| 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, 233
- Kohler K161
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 7 hp [5.2 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 277 cc [16.94 ci] |
| 233 Starter | Manual recoil |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.875x2.50 inches [73 x 64 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| 234 Starter | Electric |
Transmission Information of Bolens, 233
Transmission variants 1
- Variable-geometry drive pulley with six positions on the control lever. Two-speed range shift.
| Transmission | Versa-gear |
|---|---|
| Type | Belt-driven CVT |
| Gears | 12 forward and 2 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Bolens, 233
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Electrical System of Bolens, 233
| 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 233 have?
The Bolens 233 delivers 7 HP.
What years was the Bolens 233 produced?
The Bolens 233 was produced in 1961.
What engine does the Bolens 233 have?
The Bolens 233 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Bolens 233 use?
The Bolens 233 uses a Versa-gear transmission.
How much does the Bolens 233 weigh?
The Bolens 233 weighs 500 lbs [226 kg].
Is the Bolens 233 4WD?
The Bolens 233 is available in 2WD.