
Wheel Horse Commando V8
Power
8 hp
Production
1969-1970
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
5066
Weight
493 lbs [223 kg]
Drive
2WD
Introduction
Wheel Horse Commando V8 Garden Tractor
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 is a compact garden tractor produced between 1969 and 1970 in South Bend, Indiana, USA. Designed for residential lawn care and light garden maintenance, this machine represents the classic utility tractor architecture of the late 1960s.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by a Tecumseh VH80 gasoline engine, a single-cylinder, air-cooled unit with a vertical shaft. It produces 8 hp (6.0 kW) at a rated speed of 3600 RPM. The engine features a 389 cc displacement and utilizes a mechanical clutch to engage the power transfer. The drivetrain consists of a belt-driven gear transmission providing three forward gears and one reverse gear, delivering power to the two-wheel-drive system.
Electrical and PTO
Equipped with a 12-volt electrical system, the Commando V8 utilizes a 24 AH battery and an alternator-based charging system with a 10-amp output. The machine is fitted with an independent mid-mounted Power Take-Off (PTO), allowing for the operation of compatible implements, including the standard 36-inch mower deck.
Chassis and Dimensions
Built on a compact frame with a 42-inch wheelbase, the tractor measures 60 inches in length and 32 inches in width. It features manual steering and an open operator station. The ground clearance is 5.625 inches, and the unit has a shipping weight of 493 lbs. It rides on lawn/turf tires, sized 15x6.00-6 for the front and 20x8.00-10 for the rear.
Conclusion
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 is a specialized tool intended for homeowners and garden maintenance tasks. Its mechanical simplicity and compact dimensions make it well-suited for maneuvering in restricted spaces, reflecting the design standards of its production era.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, Commando V8
- Original price was $810 in 1969
- Garden tractor
- Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA
| Manufacturer | Wheel Horse |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, Commando V8
| Ground clearance | 5.625 inches [14 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 42 inches [106 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 32.5 inches [82 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 37.25 inches [94 cm] |
| Length | 60 inches [152 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 493 lbs [223 kg] |
| Width | 32 inches [81 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 15x6.00-6 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 20x8.00-10 |
Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, Commando V8
- Tecumseh VH80
- Air-cooled vertical-shaft
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 8 hp [6.0 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 389 cc [23.75 ci] |
| Rated RPM | 3600 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.3125x2.75 inches [84 x 70 mm] |
| Oil capacity | 1 qts [0.9 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, Commando V8
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | 5066 |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 2 qts [1.9 L] |
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, Commando V8
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of Wheel Horse, Commando V8
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Mechanical |
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, Commando V8
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery AH | 24 |
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging amps | 10 |
Where it sits
With 8 HP, the Wheel Horse Commando V8 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 V8 have?
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 delivers 8 HP.
What years was the Wheel Horse Commando V8 produced?
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 was produced in 1969-1970.
What engine does the Wheel Horse Commando V8 have?
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Wheel Horse Commando V8 use?
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 uses a 5066 transmission.
How much does the Wheel Horse Commando V8 weigh?
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 weighs 493 lbs [223 kg].
Is the Wheel Horse Commando V8 4WD?
The Wheel Horse Commando V8 is available in 2WD.