Wheel Horse C-81

Name: Wheel Horse C-81
Brand: Wheel Horse

Power

8 hp

Production

1978-1979

Engine

Gasoline, 1-cylinder

Transmission

Belt-driven gear

Weight

540 lbs [244 kg]

Drive

2WD

Under 15 HP 1970s

From the same series:

C-101

Introduction

Wheel Horse C-81 Garden Tractor

The Wheel Horse C-81 is a compact garden tractor manufactured between 1978 and 1979 in South Bend, Indiana, USA. It served as a versatile utility machine for residential and light landscaping applications.

Engine Specifications

The tractor is powered by a Kohler K181S, a 1-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline engine. It has a displacement of 304 cc (18.6 ci) and generates a gross power output of 8 hp (6.0 kW) at a rated speed of 3575 RPM. The engine features a 1.25-quart oil capacity and requires specific maintenance intervals for the spark plug gap of 0.025 inches and point gap of 0.020 inches.

Transmission and PTO

The C-81 utilizes a belt-driven gear transmission providing 6 forward and 2 reverse gears. Power is transferred via a manual dry disc clutch. It is equipped with an independent mid-mounted PTO operated by a pulley system, allowing for the connection of implements such as the included 36-inch mower deck.

Chassis and Dimensions

Built on a two-wheel-drive chassis with manual steering, the tractor weighs approximately 540 lbs (244 kg). It features a wheelbase of 45.5 inches, an overall length of 65 inches, and a width of 36 inches. The machine is fitted with lawn and turf tires, with 16x6.50-8 on the front and 23x8.50-12 on the rear, suitable for grass surfaces.

Electrical and Hitch

The electrical system operates on 12 volts with a negative ground configuration and includes an electric starter. For implement attachment, the tractor is configured with an optional sleeve hitch, providing flexibility for light-duty towing or ground-engaging tasks.

Conclusion

"The Wheel Horse C-81 is a straightforward, mechanically driven tractor designed for homeowners requiring a robust machine for mowing and basic garden maintenance. Its simple construction and reliable Kohler engine established its reputation as a durable piece of American-made equipment during the late 1970s."

Introduction

Production Information of Wheel Horse, C-81

The production information of the tractor (C-81) includes details about its manufacturing.

Original price was $1,465 in 1978

Garden tractor

Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA


Manufacturer	Wheel Horse

Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, C-81

This section sums up the dimension and tires information of the tractor.


Wheelbase	45.5 inches [115 cm]
Weight	540 lbs [244 kg]
Height	41 inches [104 cm]
Length	65 inches [165 cm]
Width	36 inches [91 cm]


Lawn/turf front	16x6.50-8
Lawn/turf rear	23x8.50-12

Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, C-81

Get the specifications for the engine and if different options are available.

Kohler K181S

Air-cooled horizontal-shaft

Gasoline

1-cylinder


Oil capacity	1.25 qts [1.2 L]
Displacement	304 cc [18.6 ci]
Rated RPM	3575
Bore/Stroke	2.94x2.75 inches [75 x 70 mm]
Point gap	0.020 inches [0.508 mm]
Sparkplug gap	0.025 inches [0.635 mm]
Starter volts	12
Starter	Electric
Power (gross)	8 hp [6.0 kW]

Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, C-81Y

Discover all variants of transmission available for this tractor model.

Transmission variants 1


Manufacturer	Wheel Horse
Oil capacity	2 qts [1.9 L]
Type	Belt-driven gear
Gears	6 forward and 2 reverse

Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, C-81Y

This section summarizes all mechanical information such as the brake system and other specifications.

Two-wheel drive

Manual steering

Open operator station.

Power Information of Wheel Horse, C-81Y

Discover the power specifications and options available for this tractor model but also PTO (Power Take-off) information.


Mid PTO	Independent
Clutch	Manual dry disc
Mid PTO Type	Pulley

Three-Point Hitch of Wheel Horse, C-81

Hitch category and rear/front lift capacity.


Type	Sleeve hitch OptOptional

Electrical System of Wheel Horse, C-81

Battery voltage, charging system and ground.


Ground	Negative
Charging amps	15
Battery volts	12

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse C-81 have?

The Wheel Horse C-81 delivers 8 HP.

What years was the Wheel Horse C-81 produced?

The Wheel Horse C-81 was produced in 1978-1979.

What engine does the Wheel Horse C-81 have?

The Wheel Horse C-81 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Wheel Horse C-81 use?

The Wheel Horse C-81 uses a Belt-driven gear transmission.

How much does the Wheel Horse C-81 weigh?

The Wheel Horse C-81 weighs 540 lbs [244 kg].

Is the Wheel Horse C-81 4WD?

The Wheel Horse C-81 is available in 2WD.

More Wheel Horse models

8HP8 HP · 1973 8HP 4-Speed8 HP · 1973 1088 HP · 1981 - 1988 208-38 HP · 1985 - 1986 208-48 HP · 1988 208-4SB8 HP · 1989 308-88 HP · 1986 - 1988 512D8 HP · 1986

View all 238 Wheel Horse models →

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