Introduction
Custom Model B Row-Crop Tractor
The Custom Model B is a row-crop tractor produced between 1947 and 1949 in Shelbyville, Indiana, USA. Designed for agricultural operations during the post-war era, this two-wheel-drive machine focuses on mechanical simplicity and utility.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a Chrysler IND 5 liquid-cooled, 6-cylinder gasoline engine. With a displacement of 217.8 cubic inches (3.6 L), it produces 52 horsepower (38.8 kW) at a rated speed of 1800 RPM. The engine delivers 141 lb-ft (191.2 Nm) of torque at 1200 RPM, providing sufficient power for standard row-crop field tasks.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The drivetrain features a manual gear-type transmission with 4 forward speeds and 1 reverse speed. It is equipped with a rear power take-off (PTO) shaft, which allows the operator to power various pull-behind or mounted implements. The tractor utilizes a two-wheel-drive configuration.
Mechanical and Operator Interface
The operator works from an open station, which offers unobstructed visibility of the field. Steering is manual, requiring physical input from the operator, and braking is managed by drum brakes. The machine weighs approximately 3,450 lbs (1,564 kg) and provides a ground clearance of 25 inches (63 cm), suitable for navigating crops without damage.
Dimensions and Tires
The Custom Model B has a wheelbase of 88 inches (223 cm) and an overall length of 130 inches (330 cm). It sits on agricultural tires, with 6-16 tires on the front and 10-38 tires on the rear, ensuring traction for field-based work.
Conclusion
The Custom Model B is a representative example of mid-20th-century American row-crop tractor design. Its combination of a 6-cylinder gasoline engine, manual controls, and a standard PTO system makes it a functional machine for collectors and those performing light to medium agricultural duties.
Production Information of Custom, B
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Shelbyville, Indiana, USA
| Manufacturer | Custom |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Custom, B
| Wheelbase | 88 inches [223 cm] |
|---|---|
| Ground clearance | 25 inches [63 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 3450 lbs [1564 kg] |
| Length | 130 inches [330 cm] |
| Height | 71 inches [180 cm] |
| Ag front | 6-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 10-38 |
Engine Specifications of Custom, B
- Chrysler IND 5
- Liquid-cooled
- Gasoline
- 6-cylinder
| Torque RPM | 1200 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 217.8 ci [3.6 L] |
| Compression | 6.6:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.25x4.375 inches [83 x 111 mm] |
| Torque | 141 lb-ft [191.2 Nm] |
| Rated RPM | 1800 |
| Power | 52 hp [38.8 kW] |
Transmission Information of Custom, B
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Custom, B
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Drum brakes
Power Information of Custom, B
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|
Where it sits
With 52 HP, the Custom B sits just below 96 (56 HP) in Custom's range. Its power puts it in the 84th percentile of 1940s models in our database (263 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Custom B have?
The Custom B delivers 52 HP.
What years was the Custom B produced?
The Custom B was produced in 1947-1949.
What engine does the Custom B have?
The Custom B is powered by a Gasoline, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Custom B use?
The Custom B uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the Custom B weigh?
The Custom B weighs 3450 lbs [1564 kg].
Is the Custom B 4WD?
The Custom B is available in 2WD.