David Brown 990 tractor

David Brown 990

Power

52 hp

Production

1961-1980

Engine

Diesel, 4-cylinder

Transmission

Gear

Drive

2WD

Introduction

David Brown 990 Utility Tractor

The David Brown 990 is a utility tractor produced in Meltham Mills, Huddersfield, England, between 1961 and 1980. Designed as a versatile agricultural machine, it served a wide range of farming operations throughout its twenty-year production run.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, four-cylinder David Brown diesel engine with a displacement of 3.0 liters (185.8 cubic inches). It produces 52 horsepower (38.8 kW) at a rated engine speed of 2200 RPM. The engine features a compression ratio of 17:1 and relies on an oil bath air cleaner for intake filtration. It operates within a range of 700 to 2200 RPM.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The 990 offers two primary transmission configurations: a standard 6-speed gear transmission with 2 reverse gears, or a 12-speed partially synchronized transmission introduced in 1963, which provides 4 reverse gears. Power is transferred via a 279mm dry disc clutch. The tractor is configured as a two-wheel-drive unit and includes a mechanical rear differential lock to improve traction in field conditions.

Hydraulics and PTO

The hydraulic system utilizes an open-center design with a total flow capacity of 7.4 gpm (28.0 lpm) at a system pressure of 2000 psi (137.9 bar). The rear Power Take-Off (PTO) is designed to operate at 540 or 1000 RPM, depending on the engine speed, with a 1.375-inch shaft. An optional live PTO system is available for increased operational flexibility with implements.

Dimensions and Operator Station

The tractor features an open operator station with manual steering, which could be upgraded to optional hydrostatic power steering. The wheelbase measures 76.75 inches (194 cm) with an overall length of 118 inches (299 cm). The rear and front tread widths are adjustable, ranging from 52 to 76 inches (132 to 193 cm), allowing the machine to be adapted for various row-crop spacings.

Conclusion

The David Brown 990 is a mechanical utility tractor suited for general agricultural tasks. Its combination of a reliable 52-hp diesel engine, choice of gear transmissions, and adjustable tread widths makes it a practical choice for farmers requiring a straightforward, adaptable machine for field and yard work.

David Brown 990 Manuals & Documentation

Download the manuals and documentation available for the David Brown 990: repair and workshop manuals, operator's handbooks, spare-parts catalogs and technical leaflets — free PDF files.

Archive documentation provided for reference, hosted by Tractor-Info.

Production Information of David Brown, 990

  • Utility tractor
  • Built in Meltham Mills, Huddersfield, England
ManufacturerDavid Brown

Dimension and Tires Information of David Brown, 990

Rear tread52/56/60/64/68/72/76 inches [132/142/152/162/172/182/193 cm]
Wheelbase76.75 inches [194 cm]
Clearance (front axle)20 inches [50 cm]
Height (hood)56 inches [142 cm]
Length118 inches [299 cm]
Front tread52/56/60/64/68/72/76 inches [132/142/152/162/172/182/193 cm]
Width67 inches [170 cm]
Standard tires (ag)Front: 6.00-16. Rear: 11-32

Engine Specifications of David Brown, 990

  • David Brown
  • Liquid-cooled
  • 4-cylinder
  • Diesel
Air cleanerOil bath
Operating RPM700-2200
Displacement185.8 ci [3.0 L]
Bore/Stroke3.625x4.50 inches [92 x 114 mm]
Power52 hp [38.8 kW]
Rated RPM2200
Compression17:1
Coolant capacity14.4 qts [13.6 L]
Oil capacity7.8 qts [7.4 L]
Starter volts12

Transmission Information of David Brown, 990

Transmission variants 1

  • Three gears (1-3) plus reverse (R) in low and high ranges.
TypeGear
Gears6 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch279mm dry disc

Transmission variants 2

  • Twelve-speed transmission introduced in 1963.
TypePartially synchronized
Gears12 forward and 4 reverse
  • 6-speed gear
  • 12-speed partially synchronized

Mechanical Specs of David Brown, 990

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes
  • Open operator station.
Differential lockMechanical rear
SteeringManual

Power Information of David Brown, 990

Rear PTOTransmission
Engine RPM540@1800 (Low)
Rear PTO Type540/1000 (1.375)
Rear PTO Type(optional)Live (optional)
Rear PTO Type(optional)540@1100 (High)
ClutchDry disc

Hydraulics Specifications of David Brown, 990

TypeOpen center
Pressure2000 psi [137.9 bar]
Total flow7.4 gpm [28.0 lpm]

Three-Point Hitch of David Brown, 990

Rear TypeII/I

Electrical System of David Brown, 990

Charging systemGenerator
Batteries2
Battery volts6

Where it sits

With 52 HP, the David Brown 990 sits between 4600 (51 HP) and 1290 (58 HP) in David Brown's range. Its power puts it in the 53th percentile of 1960s models in our database (709 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the David Brown 990 have?

The David Brown 990 delivers 52 HP.

What years was the David Brown 990 produced?

The David Brown 990 was produced in 1961-1980.

What engine does the David Brown 990 have?

The David Brown 990 is powered by a Diesel, 4-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the David Brown 990 use?

The David Brown 990 uses a Gear transmission.

Is the David Brown 990 4WD?

The David Brown 990 is available in 2WD.

Compare the David Brown 990 with another model