Wheel Horse 312-A lawn tractor

Wheel Horse 312-A

Power

12 hp

Production

1986-1987

Engine

1-cylinder

Transmission

Eaton 700-0015

Weight

689 lbs*As listed in the sales brochure for tractor without mower. May include a shipping crate. [312 kg]

Drive

2WD

Introduction

Wheel Horse 312-A Garden Tractor

The Wheel Horse 312-A is a garden tractor manufactured in South Bend, Indiana, USA, between 1986 and 1987. Designed for residential landscaping and light maintenance, this model is recognized for its mechanical simplicity and operational flexibility.

Engine Specifications

The tractor is powered by a 12 hp (8.9 kW) Kohler M12S air-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 476 cc. It features a bore/stroke ratio of 86 mm by 83 mm and operates at a rated speed of 3600 RPM. The engine utilizes a 6.6:1 compression ratio and requires a Champion RH10 sparkplug with a gap of 0.635 mm.

Transmission and Drive System

The 312-A is equipped with an Eaton 700-0015 belt-driven hydrostatic transmission. This system provides infinite forward and reverse gears, allowing for smooth speed control without manual shifting. The machine utilizes a two-wheel drive configuration and manual steering for direct operator control.

Dimensions and Operator Station

The tractor features an open operator station designed for visibility. It has a wheelbase of 115 cm, a total length of 164 cm, and a width of 91 cm. The base weight of the unit is 264 kg. It is fitted with lawn and turf tires, specifically 15x6.00-6 on the front and 22x9.00-12 on the rear, to provide traction while minimizing soil compaction.

Compatibility and Maintenance

The tractor supports various mower deck sizes, including 36, 37, 42, and 48-inch options, making it adaptable to different lawn maintenance requirements. The oil capacity of the engine is 2.4 liters, and the electrical system operates on a 12-volt battery with a negative ground.

Conclusion

The Wheel Horse 312-A is a compact and reliable garden tractor suited for homeowners and hobbyists. Its hydrostatic transmission and compatibility with multiple mower deck sizes provide the necessary versatility for varied lawn care tasks, while its robust construction reflects the manufacturing standards of the period.

Production Information of Wheel Horse, 312-A

  • Garden tractor
  • Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA
ManufacturerWheel Horse

Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, 312-A

Wheelbase45.5 inches [115 cm]
Shipping weight689 lbs [312 kg]
Weight584 lbs [264 kg]
Length64.8 inches [164 cm]
Width36 inches [91 cm]

As listed in the sales brochure for tractor without mower. May include a shipping crate.

Lawn/turf front15x6.00-6
Lawn/turf rear22x9.00-12

Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, 312-A

  • The Kohler M12S replaced the K301 on the Wheel Horse 312-A starting with the 1987 model year, tractor model code 21-12KE03.
  • Air-cooled
  • 1-cylinder
SparkplugChampion RH10
Oil capacity2.5 qts [2.4 L]
Power (gross)12 hp [8.9 kW]
Displacement476 cc [29.1 ci]
Sparkplug gap0.025 inches [0.635 mm]
Rated RPM3600
Compression6.6:1
Bore/Stroke3.38x3.25 inches [86 x 83 mm]

Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, 312-A

Transmission variants 1

TransmissionEaton 700-0015
TypeBelt-driven hydrostatic
GearsInfnite forward and infinite reverse

Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, 312-A

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Manual steering
  • Open operator station.

Electrical System of Wheel Horse, 312-A

GroundNegative
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 12 HP, the Wheel Horse 312-A sits between SB-421 (11 HP) and 13-32XLE (13 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 56th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse 312-A have?

The Wheel Horse 312-A delivers 12 HP.

What years was the Wheel Horse 312-A produced?

The Wheel Horse 312-A was produced in 1986-1987.

What engine does the Wheel Horse 312-A have?

The Wheel Horse 312-A is powered by a 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Wheel Horse 312-A use?

The Wheel Horse 312-A uses a Eaton 700-0015 transmission.

How much does the Wheel Horse 312-A weigh?

The Wheel Horse 312-A weighs 689 lbs*As listed in the sales brochure for tractor without mower. May include a shipping crate. [312 kg].

Is the Wheel Horse 312-A 4WD?

The Wheel Horse 312-A is available in 2WD.

Compare the Wheel Horse 312-A with another model