Wheel Horse Charger 12
Power
12 hp
Production
1968-1972
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Belt-driven hydrostatic
Weight
670 lbs [303 kg]
Drive
2WD
Introduction
Wheel Horse Charger 12 Garden Tractor
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 is a classic garden tractor produced between 1968 and 1972 at the manufacturer's facility in South Bend, Indiana, USA. Designed for residential lawn care and garden maintenance, this model is recognized for its robust mechanical construction and versatility in varying outdoor tasks.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a Kohler K301S gasoline engine, a single-cylinder, air-cooled unit with a displacement of 476 cc. It produces a gross power output of 12 hp (8.9 kW) at a rated speed of 3600 RPM, providing sufficient torque for mowing and light utility work.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power is transferred to the wheels via a Sunstrand belt-driven hydrostatic transmission. This system provides infinite forward and reverse speed control, allowing the operator to adjust the ground speed precisely without the need for traditional gear shifting.
Mechanical Configuration
The Charger 12 features a two-wheel drive chassis equipped with manual steering. The operator operates the machine from an open station, which offers direct visibility of the work area. With a wheelbase of 45.5 inches and a ground clearance of 7.25 inches, the machine maintains stability while navigating uneven lawn surfaces.
Dimensions and Attachments
The tractor has a shipping weight of approximately 670 lbs (303 kg) and measures 65 inches in length by 36 inches in width. It is designed to accommodate multiple mower deck sizes, specifically 36, 42, and 48-inch options, making it adaptable to different plot sizes.
Conclusion
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 serves as a durable, mid-range garden tractor suitable for enthusiasts and users requiring a reliable platform for lawn maintenance. Its combination of a proven Kohler engine and a hydrostatic drive system makes it a functional piece of equipment for period-correct garden care.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, Charger 12
- Garden tractor
- Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA
| Manufacturer | Wheel Horse |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, Charger 12
| Ground clearance | 7.25 inches [18 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 45.5 inches [115 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 35 inches [88 cm] |
| Height | 40 inches [101 cm] |
| Length | 65 inches [165 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 670 lbs [303 kg] |
| Width | 36 inches [91 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 16x5.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x8.50-12 |
Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, Charger 12
- Kohler K301S
- Air-cooled
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power (gross) | 12 hp [8.9 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 476 cc [29.07 ci] |
| Rated RPM | 3600 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x3.25 inches [86 x 83 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, Charger 12
Transmission variants 1
| Manufacturer | Sunstrand |
|---|---|
| Type | Belt-driven hydrostatic |
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, Charger 12
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, Charger 12
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 12 HP, the Wheel Horse Charger 12 sits between SB-421 (11 HP) and 13-32XLE (13 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 97th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse Charger 12 have?
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 delivers 12 HP.
What years was the Wheel Horse Charger 12 produced?
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 was produced in 1968-1972.
What engine does the Wheel Horse Charger 12 have?
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Wheel Horse Charger 12 use?
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 uses a Belt-driven hydrostatic transmission.
How much does the Wheel Horse Charger 12 weigh?
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 weighs 670 lbs [303 kg].
Is the Wheel Horse Charger 12 4WD?
The Wheel Horse Charger 12 is available in 2WD.