Bolens 235
Power
7 hp
Production
1962
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Versa-gear
Weight
525 lbs [238 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Bolens 235 Garden Tractor
The Bolens 235 is a classic garden tractor produced in the early 1960s in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA. Designed for homeowners and small-scale property maintenance, this two-wheel-drive machine represents the era's focus on compact, versatile utility equipment.
Engine and Power
The tractor is powered by a Kohler K161 gasoline engine. This single-cylinder, air-cooled unit features a 277 cc displacement and delivers approximately 7 horsepower (5.2 kW). The engine is equipped with both manual recoil and electric starting systems, providing redundancy for cold starts.
Transmission and Drive
The drivetrain utilizes a belt-driven CVT system marketed as 'Versa-gear'. It incorporates a variable-geometry drive pulley offering six adjustment positions on the control lever, complemented by a two-speed range shift. This configuration provides a total of 12 forward and 2 reverse speeds, allowing the operator to match ground speed to specific gardening tasks.
Mechanical and Dimensions
Built on a chassis with a 105 cm wheelbase, the Bolens 235 features manual steering and an open operator station. It offers a ground clearance of 22 cm, facilitating operation over uneven turf. The machine is fitted with turf-specific tires, measuring 4.00x8 at the front and 6-12 at the rear, to minimize ground compaction.
Conclusion
The Bolens 235 is a durable, utility-focused garden tractor suited for lawn maintenance and light groundskeeping duties. Its combination of a simple, air-cooled engine and a multi-speed transmission makes it a representative example of 1960s American small-tractor engineering.
Production Information of Bolens, 235
- Garden tractor
- Built in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Bolens |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | $650 (1958 234 ) |
| Original price | $575 (1961 233 ) |
Dimension and Tires Information of Bolens, 235
| Ground clearance | 9 inches [22 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 41.5 inches [105 cm] |
| 235 Shipping weight | 525 lbs [238 kg] |
| Height | 38 inches [96 cm] |
| Length | 61.5 inches [156 cm] |
| Front tread | 31 inches [78 cm] |
| 236 Shipping weight | 575 lbs [260 kg] |
| Width | 31 inches [78 cm] |
| Rear tread | 31 inches [78 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 4.00x8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 6-12 |
Engine Specifications of Bolens, 235
- Kohler K161
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 7 hp [5.2 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 277 cc [16.94 ci] |
| 235 Starter | Manual recoil |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.875x2.50 inches [73 x 64 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| 236 Starter | Electric |
Transmission Information of Bolens, 235
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, 235
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Electrical System of Bolens, 235
| 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 235 have?
The Bolens 235 delivers 7 HP.
What years was the Bolens 235 produced?
The Bolens 235 was produced in 1962.
What engine does the Bolens 235 have?
The Bolens 235 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Bolens 235 use?
The Bolens 235 uses a Versa-gear transmission.
How much does the Bolens 235 weigh?
The Bolens 235 weighs 525 lbs [238 kg].
Is the Bolens 235 4WD?
The Bolens 235 is available in 2WD.