Wheel Horse C-85
Power
8 hp
Production
1980-1983
Transmission
Belt-driven gear
Weight
540 lbs [244 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Wheel Horse C-85 Garden Tractor
The Wheel Horse C-85 is a garden tractor produced between 1980 and 1983 in South Bend, Indiana, USA. Designed for residential property maintenance and light landscaping tasks, this model serves as a representative example of the compact, versatile utility machines manufactured by Wheel Horse during this period.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by an air-cooled engine generating 8 horsepower (6.0 kW). It features a displacement of 304 cc (18.6 ci) with a bore and stroke of 2.94 by 2.75 inches. Maintenance requirements include an oil capacity of 1.25 quarts (1.2 L) with recommended oil changes every 25 hours. The ignition system utilizes a Champion J-8 sparkplug with a gap setting of 0.025 inches (0.635 mm) and a point gap of 0.020 inches (0.508 mm).
Transmission and Drivetrain
The C-85 utilizes a belt-driven gear transmission manufactured by Wheel Horse, offering 6 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds. This two-wheel-drive machine is operated via a manual clutch. The system requires 2 quarts (1.9 L) of oil for lubrication.
Electrical and Hydraulic Systems
The machine is equipped with a 12-volt electrical system powered by a 24 AH battery. Charging is managed by an alternator providing 15 amps. The tractor includes an independent front power take-off (PTO) engaged by a manual clutch, allowing for the operation of various attachments, including the standard 36-inch mower deck.
Mechanical and Dimensions
Built with an open operator station, the C-85 features manual steering and mechanical band brakes for operation. The chassis has a wheelbase of 45.5 inches (115 cm), with an overall length of 69 inches (175 cm) and a width of 36 inches (91 cm). The shipping weight of the unit is 540 lbs (244 kg). It is fitted with 16x6.50-8 front tires and 23x8.50-12 rear tires, specifically designed for lawn and turf applications.
Conclusion
The Wheel Horse C-85 is a straightforward, mechanically driven garden tractor suitable for standard mowing and light-duty garden maintenance. Its design prioritizes ease of manual operation and compatibility with the wider C-series ecosystem, making it a functional choice for collectors and property owners seeking a traditional, gear-driven utility machine.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, C-85
- Garden tractor
- Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA
| Manufacturer | Wheel Horse |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, C-85
| Wheelbase | 45.5 inches [115 cm] |
|---|---|
| Shipping weight | 540 lbs [244 kg] |
| Height | 41 inches [104 cm] |
| Length | 69 inches [175 cm] |
| Width | 36 inches [91 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 16x6.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x8.50-12 |
Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, C-85
- Air-cooled
| Sparkplug | Champion J-8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 304 cc [18.6 ci] |
| Oil capacity | 1.25 qts [1.2 L] |
| Air cleaner | Dry element |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.94x2.75 inches [75 x 70 mm] |
| Oil change | 25 h |
| Point gap | 0.020 inches [0.508 mm] |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Rated RPM | 3600 |
| Power | 8 hp [6.0 kW] |
Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, C-85
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-85
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Mechanical band brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Power Information of Wheel Horse, C-85
| Front PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Manual |
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, C-85
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery AH | 24 |
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
With 8 HP, the Wheel Horse C-85 sits just below C-105 (10 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 18th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse C-85 have?
The Wheel Horse C-85 delivers 8 HP.
What years was the Wheel Horse C-85 produced?
The Wheel Horse C-85 was produced in 1980-1983.
What transmission does the Wheel Horse C-85 use?
The Wheel Horse C-85 uses a Belt-driven gear transmission.
How much does the Wheel Horse C-85 weigh?
The Wheel Horse C-85 weighs 540 lbs [244 kg].
Is the Wheel Horse C-85 4WD?
The Wheel Horse C-85 is available in 2WD.