Ford LT-81
Power
8 hp
Production
1982-1983
Engine
1-cylinder
Transmission
Belt-driven gear
Weight
335 lbs [151 kg]
Drive
2WD
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Introduction
Ford LT-81 Lawn Tractor
The Ford LT-81 is a compact lawn tractor manufactured between 1982 and 1983. Designed primarily for residential lawn maintenance, this model belongs to the Ford LT series and features a straightforward mechanical configuration suitable for property care.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by a single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with a displacement of 318 cc (19.44 ci). It produces a gross power output of 8 hp (6.0 kW). The engine utilizes a vertical-shaft design and is started via a 12-volt electrical system with a negative ground. Power is transferred to the wheels through a belt-driven gear transmission, providing six forward speeds and two reverse speeds, managed by a three-speed gearbox with high and low ranges.
Mechanical and Operational Features
The LT-81 is a two-wheel-drive machine featuring manual steering. The operator station is of the open design, providing direct access to controls, including a combined left-side clutch and brake pedal. For implement operation, the tractor is equipped with an independent mid-mounted power take-off (PTO). It is factory-fitted with a 34-inch mower deck.
Dimensions and Chassis
The chassis sits on a 46.25-inch (117 cm) wheelbase with an overall length of 64.75 inches (164 cm). The machine has a width of 33.75 inches (85 cm) and weighs approximately 335 lbs (151 kg). Ground clearance is measured at 7.125 inches (18 cm) at the front axle and 5.75 inches (14 cm) at the rear axle. It rolls on turf-specific tires, measuring 15x6.00-6 at the front and 18x8.50-8 at the rear.
Conclusion
The Ford LT-81 is a functional, entry-level lawn tractor suited for homeowners requiring a basic machine for mowing and light property maintenance tasks. Its simple mechanical construction and compact dimensions make it a manageable option for small to medium-sized lawns.
Production Information of Ford, LT-81
- Lawn tractor
| Manufacturer | Ford |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Ford, LT-81
| Clearance (front axle) | 7.125 inches [18 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 46.25 inches [117 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 30.375 inches [77 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 36.25 inches [92 cm] |
| Length | 64.75 inches [164 cm] |
| Clearance (rear axle) | 5.75 inches [14 cm] |
| Weight | 335 lbs [151 kg] |
| Width | 33.75 inches [85 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 15x6.00-6 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 18x8.50-8 |
Engine Specifications of Ford, LT-81
- Air-cooled vertical-shaft
- Image courtesy of Alex Morey
- 1-cylinder
| Power (gross) | 8 hp [6.0 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 318 cc [19.44 ci] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.00x2.75 inches [76 x 70 mm] |
Transmission Information of Ford, LT-81
Transmission variants 1
- Three-speed gearbox with high/low ranges and combined left-side clutch/brake pedal.
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Ford, LT-81
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of Ford, LT-81
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|
Electrical System of Ford, LT-81
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 8 HP, the Ford LT-81 sits just below LT-111 (11 HP) in Ford's range. Its power puts it in the 18th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Ford LT-81 have?
The Ford LT-81 delivers 8 HP.
What years was the Ford LT-81 produced?
The Ford LT-81 was produced in 1982-1983.
What engine does the Ford LT-81 have?
The Ford LT-81 is powered by a 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Ford LT-81 use?
The Ford LT-81 uses a Belt-driven gear transmission.
How much does the Ford LT-81 weigh?
The Ford LT-81 weighs 335 lbs [151 kg].
Is the Ford LT-81 4WD?
The Ford LT-81 is available in 2WD.