Introduction
Custom 98 Row-Crop Tractor
The Custom 98 is a row-crop tractor manufactured in Hustisford, Wisconsin, USA, between 1952 and 1954. Part of the 96 series, this machine was designed for mid-century agricultural operations requiring a balance of power and maneuverability.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, 6-cylinder Chrysler 8A gasoline engine. With a displacement of 250.6 cubic inches (4.1 L), the engine produces 62 horsepower at a rated speed of 1800 RPM. It delivers a peak torque of 167 lb-ft (226.5 Nm) at 1200 RPM, providing consistent lugging ability for field tasks.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The drivetrain features a manual transmission with 5 forward gears and 1 reverse gear, allowing for a range of operating speeds. The tractor utilizes a two-wheel drive system and is equipped with manual steering, reflecting the standard mechanical design of the era.
Hydraulics and PTO
For implement operation, the tractor is equipped with a rear Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft operating at 540 RPM, utilizing a standard 1.375-inch shaft diameter, which ensures compatibility with a wide array of period-appropriate agricultural implements.
Dimensions and Configuration
The Custom 98 features an open operator station. It was offered in different configurations, with the 98W model having a wheelbase of 93.625 inches and a shipping weight of 4,696 lbs, while the 98R model features a 93.75-inch wheelbase and a weight of 4,436 lbs. Various tire combinations, such as 14-30 or 12-38 rear tires, were available to adapt the machine to different row-crop requirements.
Conclusion
The Custom 98 is a representative example of 1950s American row-crop tractor engineering. Its combination of a 6-cylinder gasoline engine and a straightforward mechanical layout makes it a functional machine suited for collectors and those performing light to moderate agricultural work.
Production Information of Custom, 98
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Hustisford, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Custom |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Custom, 98
| 98W Wheelbase | 93.625 inches [237 cm] |
|---|---|
| 98R Length | 139.1 inches [353 cm] |
| 98W Shipping weight | 4696 lbs [2130 kg] |
| 98W Length | 137.1 inches [348 cm] |
| 98R Front tread | 8 to 14 inches [20 to 35 cm] |
| 98R Wheelbase | 93.75 inches [238 cm] |
| 98W Height | 78 inches [198 cm] |
| 98R Height | 80 inches [203 cm] |
| 98W Shipping weight | 4436 lbs [2012 kg] |
| 98R Ground clearance | 25 inches [63 cm] |
| 98W Ground clearance | 17 inches [43 cm] |
| 98W Rear tread | 66.5 to 78.5 inches [168 to 199 cm] |
| 98R Rear tread | 56 to 84 inches [142 to 213 cm] |
| 98W Front tread | 55.5 to 61.5 inches [140 to 156 cm] |
| 98W Standard tires (ag) | Front: 6-16. Rear: 14-30 |
|---|---|
| 98R Standard tires (ag) | Front: 6-16. Rear: 12-38 |
Engine Specifications of Custom, 98
- Chrysler 8A
- Liquid-cooled
- Gasoline
- 6-cylinder
| Torque RPM | 1200 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 250.6 ci [4.1 L] |
| Compression | 6.6:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.4375x4.50 inches [87 x 114 mm] |
| Firing order | 1-5-3-6-2-4 |
| Torque | 167 lb-ft [226.5 Nm] |
| Rated RPM | 1800 |
| Power | 62 hp [46.2 kW] |
Transmission Information of Custom, 98
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Custom, 98
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of Custom, 98
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
|---|
Where it sits
With 62 HP, the Custom 98 sits just above 96 (56 HP) in Custom's range. Its power puts it in the 89th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Custom 98 have?
The Custom 98 delivers 62 HP.
What years was the Custom 98 produced?
The Custom 98 was produced in 1952-1954.
What engine does the Custom 98 have?
The Custom 98 is powered by a Gasoline, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Custom 98 use?
The Custom 98 uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the Custom 98 weigh?
The Custom 98 weighs 4696 lbs [2130 kg].
Is the Custom 98 4WD?
The Custom 98 is available in 2WD.