Wheel Horse Commando 8
Power
8 hp
Production
1968-1969
Engine
1-cylinder
Transmission
Wheel Horse Uni-Drive
Weight
430 lbs [195 kg]
Drive
2WD
Introduction
Wheel Horse Commando 8 Garden Tractor
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 is a compact garden tractor manufactured in South Bend, Indiana, USA, between 1968 and 1969. Designed primarily for residential lawn maintenance and light groundskeeping tasks, this model reflects the standard engineering of late 1960s small-frame tractors.
Engine and Power
The tractor is powered by an air-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 304 cc (18.6 ci). It produces 8 hp (6.0 kW) at a rated speed of 3600 RPM. The engine features a horizontal-shaft configuration and a bore/stroke ratio of 75 x 70 mm, requiring a 1.26 quart (1.2 L) oil capacity for operation.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The Commando 8 utilizes the proprietary Wheel Horse Uni-Drive transmission system. This belt-driven gear transmission provides a total of four speeds, consisting of three forward gears and one reverse gear, allowing for basic speed control during mowing or light utility work.
Mechanical and Dimensions
The unit features a two-wheel drive chassis with manual steering and an open operator station. It measures 61 inches (154 cm) in length and 35 inches (88 cm) in width, with a wheelbase of 41.25 inches (104 cm). The machine provides 7.25 inches (18 cm) of ground clearance and has a shipping weight of 430 lbs (195 kg). It is typically equipped with 5.50-8 front tires and 8.50-12 rear tires designed for turf applications.
Conclusion
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 is a straightforward, mechanical garden tractor suited for standard lawn care duties. Its compact design and 36-inch mower deck integration make it a functional machine for small-to-medium residential landscapes, maintaining the durability characteristic of the Wheel Horse brand from this era.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, Commando 8
- Garden tractor
- Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA
| Manufacturer | Wheel Horse |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, Commando 8
| Ground clearance | 7.25 inches [18 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 41.25 inches [104 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 33.5 inches [85 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 37.5 inches [95 cm] |
| Length | 61 inches [154 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 430 lbs [195 kg] |
| Width | 35 inches [88 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 5.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 8.50-12 |
Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, Commando 8
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
- Image courtesy of Joe
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 8 hp [6.0 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 304 cc [18.6 ci] |
| Rated RPM | 3600 |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.94x2.75 inches [75 x 70 mm] |
| Oil capacity | 1.26 qts [1.2 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, Commando 8
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | Wheel Horse Uni-Drive |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 2 qts [1.9 L] |
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, Commando 8
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, Commando 8
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 8 HP, the Wheel Horse Commando 8 sits between Workhorse 700 (7 HP) and 953 (9 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 72th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse Commando 8 have?
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 delivers 8 HP.
What years was the Wheel Horse Commando 8 produced?
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 was produced in 1968-1969.
What engine does the Wheel Horse Commando 8 have?
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 is powered by a 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Wheel Horse Commando 8 use?
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 uses a Wheel Horse Uni-Drive transmission.
How much does the Wheel Horse Commando 8 weigh?
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 weighs 430 lbs [195 kg].
Is the Wheel Horse Commando 8 4WD?
The Wheel Horse Commando 8 is available in 2WD.