Caterpillar R4 tractor

Caterpillar R4

Power

40 hp[B] hp

Production

1938-1944

Engine

Gasoline, 4-cylinder

Transmission

Gear

From the same series:

Introduction

Caterpillar R4 Crawler Tractor

The Caterpillar R4 is an agricultural crawler tractor manufactured in Peoria, Illinois, USA, between 1938 and 1944. As a direct successor to the Caterpillar Thirty series, the R4 was engineered to provide reliable traction and performance for demanding field operations during the mid-20th century.

Engine and Performance

The R4 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder gasoline engine. With a displacement of 461 cubic inches (7.6 liters) and a bore and stroke of 4.75 by 6.50 inches (121 x 165 mm), the engine produces 40 horsepower. It operates at a rated speed of 1400 RPM, providing the consistent torque necessary for heavy-duty agricultural pulling tasks.

Transmission and Drive

The tractor utilizes a gear-type transmission system offering 5 forward speeds and 1 reverse speed. This configuration allows operators to select appropriate ground speeds for various soil conditions and implements. The machine features a crawler drive system, which distributes weight over a larger surface area to minimize ground pressure and enhance traction.

Operator Environment

The R4 is equipped with an open operator station. This design provides the operator with unobstructed visibility of the surrounding work area and the implements being towed or operated, ensuring simplified maintenance access and direct control over the tractor's mechanical functions.

Conclusion

The Caterpillar R4 serves as a robust example of mid-century agricultural engineering. Its combination of a high-torque gasoline engine and a crawler track system makes it well-suited for heavy cultivation and traction work where stability and surface grip are prioritized over high-speed mobility.

Production Information of Caterpillar, R4

  • The Caterpillar R4 was a continuation of the model Thirty.
  • Agricultural Crawler tractor
  • Built in Peoria, Illinois, USA
ManufacturerCaterpillar

Engine Specifications of Caterpillar, R4

  • Caterpillar
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Gasoline
  • 4-cylinder
Rated RPM1400
Displacement461 ci [7.6 L]
Bore/Stroke4.75x6.50 inches [121 x 165 mm]

Transmission Information of Caterpillar, R4

Transmission variants 1

TypeGear
Gears5 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of Caterpillar, R4

  • Open operator station.
DriveCrawler

Power Information of Caterpillar, R4

  • Https://www.tractordata.com/farm-tractors/000/9/4/949-caterpillar-r4-tests.html

Where it sits

Its power puts it in the 61th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Caterpillar R4 have?

The Caterpillar R4 delivers 40 hp[B] HP.

What years was the Caterpillar R4 produced?

The Caterpillar R4 was produced in 1938-1944.

What engine does the Caterpillar R4 have?

The Caterpillar R4 is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Caterpillar R4 use?

The Caterpillar R4 uses a Gear transmission.

Compare the Caterpillar R4 with another model