Big Bud 16V-747 tractor

Big Bud 16V-747

Power

960 hp

Production

1978

Engine

Turbocharged intercooled diesel, 16-cylinder

Transmission

Power shift

Weight

95000 lbs [43092 kg]

Drive

4WD

Introduction

Big Bud 16V-747: Heavy-Duty Articulated Tractor

The Big Bud 16V-747 is a specialized four-wheel drive tractor produced in 1978 in Havre, Montana. Recognized as the largest tractor manufactured in the 20th century, this unique machine was custom-built for Rossi Farms to perform deep tillage operations.

Engine and Powertrain

The tractor is powered by a 16-cylinder, liquid-cooled, turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine with a displacement of 1472 cubic inches (24.1 L). It generates a gross power output of 960 hp (715.9 kW) and 2500 lb-ft (3390.0 Nm) of torque at 1200 RPM. The power is managed through a Twin Disc power shift transmission, providing 6 forward gears and 1 reverse gear.

Hydraulics and Mechanical Systems

The hydraulic system utilizes a load-sensing pump with a total flow capacity of 65 gpm (246.0 lpm) operating at 2000 psi. Mechanical control is facilitated by articulated power steering and pneumatic braking systems, ensuring handling for a machine of this scale.

Dimensions and Construction

The tractor features a wheelbase of 195 inches (495 cm) and an overall width of 250 inches (635 cm). Its shipping weight is 95,000 lbs (43,092 kg), which can be ballasted up to 130,000 lbs (58,968 kg) to optimize traction. It is equipped with 35x38 tires on both the front and rear axles.

Conclusion

The Big Bud 16V-747 represents a singular milestone in agricultural engineering, designed exclusively for extreme soil engagement tasks such as deep ripping. Currently preserved as a museum piece, it remains a reference for heavy-duty tractor design.

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Production Information of Big Bud, 16V-747

  • Original price was $300,000 in 1978
  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • The Big Bud 16V-747 is the largest tractor made in the 20th Century. It was custom ordered by Rossi Farms of California to pull ripper plows at three to four foot depths. The 16V-747 is currently on display at the Heartland Museum in Clarion, Iowa.
  • Built in Havre, Montana, USA
ManufacturerBig Bud
Total built1

Dimension and Tires Information of Big Bud, 16V-747

Wheelbase195 inches [495 cm]
Shipping weight95000 lbs [43092 kg]
Height168 inches [426 cm]
Length342 inches [868 cm]
Ballasted weight130000 lbs [58968 kg]
Width250 inches [635 cm]
Ag front35x38
Ag rear35x38

Engine Specifications of Big Bud, 16V-747

  • Liquid-cooled
  • 16-cylinder
  • Turbocharged intercooled diesel
Compression17:1
Torque RPM1200
Displacement1472 ci [24.1 L]
Bore/Stroke4.84x5.00 inches [123 x 127 mm]
Power (gross)960 hp [715.9 kW]
Torque2500 lb-ft [3390.0 Nm]
Rated RPM2100
Coolant capacity60 qts [56.8 L]
Oil capacity65 qts [61.5 L]
Starter volts24

Transmission Information of Big Bud, 16V-747

Transmission variants 1

ManufacturerTwin Disc
TypePower shift
Gears6 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of Big Bud, 16V-747

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Cab standard
  • Articulated power steering
  • Pneumatic brakes

Power Information of Big Bud, 16V-747

Engine (gross)960 hp [715.9 kW]

Hydraulics Specifications of Big Bud, 16V-747

TypeLoad sensing
Total flow65 gpm [246.0 lpm]
Pump flow60 gpm [227.1 lpm]
Capacity150 gal [567.8 L]
Pressure2000 psi [137.9 bar]

Electrical System of Big Bud, 16V-747

GroundNegative
Charging systemAlternator
Charging amps75

Where it sits

With 960 HP, the Big Bud 16V-747 sits just above 740 (740 HP) in Big Bud's range. Its power puts it in the 99th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Big Bud 16V-747 have?

The Big Bud 16V-747 delivers 960 HP.

What years was the Big Bud 16V-747 produced?

The Big Bud 16V-747 was produced in 1978.

What engine does the Big Bud 16V-747 have?

The Big Bud 16V-747 is powered by a Turbocharged intercooled diesel, 16-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Big Bud 16V-747 use?

The Big Bud 16V-747 uses a Power shift transmission.

How much does the Big Bud 16V-747 weigh?

The Big Bud 16V-747 weighs 95000 lbs [43092 kg].

Is the Big Bud 16V-747 4WD?

The Big Bud 16V-747 is available in 4WD.

Compare the Big Bud 16V-747 with another model