Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T
Power
5 hp
Production
1939-1940
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder 2-valve
Transmission
Belt-driven sliding gear
Drive
2WD
Introduction
David Bradley Handiman R-T Garden Tractor
The Handiman R-T is a compact garden tractor produced between 1939 and 1940. Distributed by Sears and manufactured by David Bradley in Bradley, Illinois, this machine represented a transition from the two-wheel walking tractor platform to a four-wheel riding configuration.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by a Briggs & Stratton Z engine, a 376 cc (23 ci) single-cylinder, air-cooled, L-head unit. It delivers 5 hp (3.7 kW) at a rated speed of 3200 RPM. The fuel system utilizes a carburetor, and the engine is protected by an oil bath air cleaner. Starting is achieved via a manual hand-crank mechanism.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power is transmitted through a belt-driven sliding gear transmission, offering two forward gears and one reverse gear. Engagement is controlled by a mechanical belt idler clutch. Sears provided an option to swap the engine and transmission pulleys, allowing for a approximately 20% increase in ground speed for transport or light tasks.
Chassis and Dimensions
The Handiman R-T features a two-wheel drive configuration with manual steering. The operator station is open and equipped with a simple steel pan seat. With a wheelbase of 57.25 inches (145 cm) and a ground clearance of 18 inches (45 cm), the tractor is designed for maneuvering in garden environments. The front and rear treads are adjustable to 27, 31.5, or 36 inches to suit various row widths.
Conclusion
The Handiman R-T was marketed as an affordable entry-level solution for small-scale cultivation, retailing for $355 in 1940. Given its mechanical simplicity and historical lineage derived from two-wheel walking tractors, it remains a notable example of early American garden tractor design for collectors and vintage machinery enthusiasts.
Production Information of Sears lawn tractors, Handiman R-T
- Original price was $355 in 1940
- Built in Bradley, Illinois, USA
- The Sears Handiman Riding Tractor (R-T) was based on the Handiman two-wheel walking tractors. Sears model numbers included 917.5151, 917.5154, and 917.5155
- Garden tractor
| Distributor | Sears |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | David Bradley |
Dimension and Tires Information of Sears lawn tractors, Handiman R-T
| Wheelbase | 57.25 inches [145 cm] |
|---|---|
| Rear tread | 27/31.5/36 inches [68/80/91 cm] |
| Ground clearance | 18 inches [45 cm] |
| Front tread | 27/31.5/36 inches [68/80/91 cm] |
| Ag front | 4.00x8 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 6.00x22 |
Engine Specifications of Sears lawn tractors, Handiman R-T
- Briggs & Stratton Z
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft L-head
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder 2-valve
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.015 inches [0.381 mm] |
|---|---|
| Fuel system | Carburetor |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
| Starter type | Hand-crank |
| Rated RPM | 3200 |
| Displacement | 376 cc [23 ci] |
| Power | 5 hp [3.7 kW] |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.00x3.25 inches [76 x 83 mm] |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.008 inches [0.203 mm] |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
| Oil capacity | 2.5 qts [2.4 L] |
Transmission Information of Sears lawn tractors, Handiman R-T
Transmission variants 1
- Sears advertised the ability to swap the engine and transmission pulleys, giving about 20% faster speeds.
| Type | Belt-driven sliding gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 2 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | Mechanical belt idler |
Mechanical Specs of Sears lawn tractors, Handiman R-T
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station with steel pan seat.
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Where it sits
With 5 HP, the Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T sits just below 625 (6 HP) in Sears lawn tractors's range.
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T have?
The Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T delivers 5 HP.
What years was the Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T produced?
The Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T was produced in 1939-1940.
What engine does the Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T have?
The Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder 2-valve engine.
What transmission does the Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T use?
The Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T uses a Belt-driven sliding gear transmission.
Is the Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T 4WD?
The Sears lawn tractors Handiman R-T is available in 2WD.