Wheel Horse C-81
Power
8 hp
Production
1978-1979
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Belt-driven gear
Weight
540 lbs [244 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
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.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, C-81
- 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
| 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
- 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-81
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-81
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of Wheel Horse, C-81
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Manual dry disc |
| Mid PTO Type | Pulley |
Three-Point Hitch of Wheel Horse, C-81
| Type(optional) | Sleeve hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, C-81
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Charging amps | 15 |
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 8 HP, the Wheel Horse C-81 sits just below C-101 (10 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 52th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1008 machines).
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.