Wheel Horse 656 lawn tractor

Wheel Horse 656

Power

6 hp

Production

1966

Engine

Gasoline, 1-cylinder

Transmission

Wheel Horse Uni-Drive

Weight

388 lbs [175 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

606
856

Introduction

Wheel Horse 656 Garden Tractor

The Wheel Horse 656 is a compact garden tractor produced in 1966 in South Bend, Indiana, USA. Designed for residential property maintenance and light landscaping, it belongs to the era of classic Wheel Horse machinery, sharing architectural traits with the 606, 856, and 655 series.

Engine and Power

The tractor is powered by a Tecumseh HH60 gasoline engine. This single-cylinder, air-cooled unit has a displacement of 221 cc (13.53 ci) with a bore and stroke of 67 x 64 mm. It delivers approximately 6 hp (4.5 kW), providing sufficient power for light-duty garden tasks and mowing operations.

Transmission and Drive

Power is delivered to the wheels through a Wheel Horse Uni-Drive transmission. This manual gear-driven system features three forward gears and one reverse gear, allowing the operator to select the appropriate speed for various ground conditions. The machine utilizes a two-wheel drive configuration.

Dimensions and Handling

The 656 is designed for maneuverability, measuring 154 cm (61 inches) in length and 81 cm (32 inches) in width. It features manual steering and an open operator station. With a total weight of 175 kg (388 lbs), the tractor is equipped with 4.00x8 front tires and 6.00x12 rear tires designed for lawn and turf applications.

Equipment and Utility

This model is primarily configured for grass maintenance and is compatible with 32-inch or 36-inch mower decks. The electrical system operates on a 12-volt battery with a negative ground, utilizing a standard starter.

Conclusion

The Wheel Horse 656 is a straightforward, mechanical garden tractor suitable for homeowners and collectors requiring a reliable machine for lawn care. Its simple design, compact footprint, and manual controls make it a representative example of 1960s garden utility equipment.

Production Information of Wheel Horse, 656

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

Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, 656

Length61 inches [154 cm]
Weight388 lbs [175 kg]
Height (hood)33.5 inches [85 cm]
Width32 inches [81 cm]
Height (steering wheel)37 inches [93 cm]
Lawn/turf front4.00x8
Lawn/turf rear6.00x12

Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, 656

  • Tecumseh HH60
  • Air-cooled
  • Gasoline
  • 1-cylinder
Power6 hp [4.5 kW]
Displacement221 cc [13.53 ci]
Starter volts12
Bore/Stroke2.625x2.50 inches [67 x 64 mm]

Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, 656

Transmission variants 1

TransmissionWheel Horse Uni-Drive
TypeGear
Gears3 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, 656

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

Electrical System of Wheel Horse, 656

GroundNegative
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 6 HP, the Wheel Horse 656 sits just below 856 (8 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 45th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse 656 have?

The Wheel Horse 656 delivers 6 HP.

What years was the Wheel Horse 656 produced?

The Wheel Horse 656 was produced in 1966.

What engine does the Wheel Horse 656 have?

The Wheel Horse 656 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Wheel Horse 656 use?

The Wheel Horse 656 uses a Wheel Horse Uni-Drive transmission.

How much does the Wheel Horse 656 weigh?

The Wheel Horse 656 weighs 388 lbs [175 kg].

Is the Wheel Horse 656 4WD?

The Wheel Horse 656 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Wheel Horse 656 with another model