Wheel Horse Commando V8 lawn tractor

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
ManufacturerWheel Horse

Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, Commando V8

Ground clearance5.625 inches [14 cm]
Wheelbase42 inches [106 cm]
Height (hood)32.5 inches [82 cm]
Height (steering wheel)37.25 inches [94 cm]
Length60 inches [152 cm]
Shipping weight493 lbs [223 kg]
Width32 inches [81 cm]
Lawn/turf front15x6.00-6
Lawn/turf rear20x8.00-10

Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, Commando V8

  • Tecumseh VH80
  • Air-cooled vertical-shaft
  • Gasoline
  • 1-cylinder
Power8 hp [6.0 kW]
Displacement389 cc [23.75 ci]
Rated RPM3600
Bore/Stroke3.3125x2.75 inches [84 x 70 mm]
Oil capacity1 qts [0.9 L]
Starter volts12

Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, Commando V8

Transmission variants 1

Transmission5066
Oil capacity2 qts [1.9 L]
TypeBelt-driven gear
Gears3 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 PTOIndependent
ClutchMechanical

Electrical System of Wheel Horse, Commando V8

GroundNegative
Battery AH24
Battery volts12
Charging systemAlternator
Charging amps10

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.

Compare the Wheel Horse Commando V8 with another model