Wheel Horse 550
Power
5 hp
Production
1960
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Uni-Drive
Weight
285 lbs [129 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Wheel Horse 550 Garden Tractor
The Wheel Horse 550 is a garden tractor produced in 1960 in South Bend, Indiana, USA. Part of the manufacturer's early series, this machine was designed for residential lawn maintenance and light groundskeeping tasks.
Engine and Power
The tractor is powered by a Tecumseh H55B gasoline engine. This air-cooled, single-cylinder, horizontal-shaft engine features a displacement of 199 cc (12.176 ci) and a bore/stroke ratio of 67 x 57 mm. It produces 5.5 hp (4.1 kW), which is transferred to the ground via a continuous mid-mounted PTO.
Transmission and Mechanical System
The machine utilizes a Uni-Drive gear transmission system, offering three forward speeds and one reverse gear. It operates with a two-wheel drive configuration and manual steering. The operator station is of an open design, focusing on simplicity and accessibility during operation.
Dimensions and Chassis
With a wheelbase of 40 inches (101 cm) and a total length of 59 inches (149 cm), the tractor remains compact for storage and maneuverability. It weighs 285 lbs (129 kg) and offers a ground clearance of 8 inches (20 cm). The unit is equipped with 16x4.00-8 front tires and 22x6.00-12 rear tires, specifically designed for lawn and turf applications. A 32-inch mower deck is included for grass cutting operations.
Conclusion
The Wheel Horse 550 is a lightweight, classic garden tractor suited for small-to-medium property maintenance. Its straightforward mechanical design and compact dimensions make it a functional choice for hobbyists and collectors focusing on mid-century gardening equipment.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, 550
- Garden tractor
- Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA
| Manufacturer | Wheel Horse |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, 550
| Ground clearance | 8 inches [20 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 40 inches [101 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 27 inches [68 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 35.5 inches [90 cm] |
| Length | 59 inches [149 cm] |
| Weight | 285 lbs [129 kg] |
| Width | 30 inches [76 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 16x4.00-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 22x6.00-12 |
Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, 550
- Tecumseh H55B
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 5.5 hp [4.1 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 199 cc [12.176 ci] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.625x2.250 inches [67 x 57 mm] |
Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, 550
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | Uni-Drive |
|---|---|
| Type | Gear |
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, 550
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of Wheel Horse, 550
| Mid PTO | Continuous |
|---|
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, 550
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 5 HP, the Wheel Horse 550 sits just above 400 (4 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 27th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse 550 have?
The Wheel Horse 550 delivers 5 HP.
What years was the Wheel Horse 550 produced?
The Wheel Horse 550 was produced in 1960.
What engine does the Wheel Horse 550 have?
The Wheel Horse 550 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Wheel Horse 550 use?
The Wheel Horse 550 uses a Uni-Drive transmission.
How much does the Wheel Horse 550 weigh?
The Wheel Horse 550 weighs 285 lbs [129 kg].
Is the Wheel Horse 550 4WD?
The Wheel Horse 550 is available in 2WD.