Introduction
David Brown 900: Technical Overview of the 1956-1958 Row-Crop Tractor
The David Brown 900 is a row-crop tractor manufactured between 1956 and 1958. Designed for versatility in agricultural operations, this model represents a period of development in mid-size tractor engineering, offering a balance of mechanical simplicity and field performance.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the David Brown PAG4/30H, a 165 cubic inch (2.7-liter) four-cylinder gasoline engine. It operates with a 7:1 compression ratio and is liquid-cooled to maintain thermal stability under load. The engine generates a rated output of 45.5 horsepower at 2,200 engine RPM, utilizing a Solex 30FV carburetor for fuel management.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The machine features a David Brown transmission system providing six forward gears and two reverse gears. This is achieved through a three-gear arrangement across two ranges (low and high). Power is transferred through a 254 mm dry disc clutch. The tractor utilizes a two-wheel-drive configuration controlled via manual steering and mechanical drum brakes.
Power Take-Off and Hydraulics
Equipped with a rear Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft, the unit delivers 540 RPM at an engine speed of 1,600 RPM. An optional 'live' PTO configuration was available to provide constant power delivery independently of the transmission clutch. The rear hitch system is a Category I type, capable of a lift capacity of 1,800 lbs (816 kg) at the ends.
Dimensions and Chassis
The chassis is built on a 72-inch wheelbase with an overall length of 113 inches and a width of 65 inches. The tractor offers a front axle clearance of 16 inches, which is suitable for row-crop applications. The rear and front tread widths are adjustable across several settings ranging from 52 to 86 inches to accommodate different crop row spacings.
Conclusion
The David Brown 900 is a dependable, classic row-crop tractor suited for small to medium-scale agricultural tasks. Its mechanical design, featuring a straightforward transmission and adjustable tread widths, makes it a functional choice for farmers and collectors who prioritize ease of maintenance and historical utility.
Production Information of David Brown, 900
- Row-Crop tractor
| Manufacturer | David Brown |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of David Brown, 900
| Kerosene Weight | 3900 lbs [1769 kg] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 72 inches [182 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 54.5 inches [138 cm] |
| Height | 77.75 inches [197 cm] |
| Length | 113 inches [287 cm] |
| Clearance (front axle) | 16 inches [40 cm] |
| Diesel Weight | 4000 lbs [1814 kg] |
| Width | 65 inches [165 cm] |
| Rear tread | 52/56/60/64/68/72/86 inches [132/142/152/162/172/182/218 cm] |
| Front tread | 52/56/60/64/68/72/86 inches [132/142/152/162/172/182/218 cm] |
| Standard tires (ag) | Front: 11.00x28. Rear: |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 5.50x16 |
| Ag rear | 11.25x28 |
| Ag rear(optional) | Front: 13x28. Rear: |
| Ag front | 6.00x16 |
Engine Specifications of David Brown, 900
- David Brown PAG4/30H
- Liquid-cooled
- High-compression gasoline engine for premium fuel.
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder
| Intake valve clearance | 0.015 inches (hot) [0.381 mm] |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 7 qts [6.6 L] |
| Power | 45.5 hp [33.9 kW] |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.022 inches (hot) [0.559 mm] |
| Compression | 7:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2200 |
| Fuel system | Solex 30FV carburetor |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.625x4.00 inches [92 x 102 mm] |
| Displacement | 165 ci [2.7 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.015 inches (hot) [0.381 mm] |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.022 inches (hot) [0.559 mm] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Firing order | 1-2-4-3 |
Transmission Information of David Brown, 900
Transmission variants 1
- Three gears (1-3) plus reverse (R) in two ranges (low/high).
| Transmission | David Brown |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 16 qts [15.1 L] |
| Gears | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | 254mm dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of David Brown, 900
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Mechanical drum brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Power Information of David Brown, 900
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Engine RPM | 545@1600 |
| Engine RPM(optional) | Live (optional) |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Three-Point Hitch of David Brown, 900
| Rear Type | I |
|---|---|
| Rear lift (at ends) | 1800 lbs [816 kg] |
Where it sits
With 40 HP, the David Brown 900 sits just below 950 (42 HP) in David Brown's range. Its power puts it in the 55th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the David Brown 900 have?
The David Brown 900 delivers 40 HP.
What years was the David Brown 900 produced?
The David Brown 900 was produced in 1956-1958.
What engine does the David Brown 900 have?
The David Brown 900 is powered by a High-compression gasoline engine for premium fuel., 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the David Brown 900 use?
The David Brown 900 uses a David Brown transmission.
How much does the David Brown 900 weigh?
The David Brown 900 weighs 3900 lbs [1769 kg].
Is the David Brown 900 4WD?
The David Brown 900 is available in 2WD.