Introduction
Empire 88 (1946-1947) Agricultural Tractor
The Empire 88 is a utility tractor produced between 1946 and 1947 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. This machine was designed to provide reliable mechanical power for mid-century agricultural operations, utilizing a Willys-sourced powertrain within a compact, two-wheel-drive configuration.
Engine and Cooling
The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a displacement of 134.6 cubic inches (2.2 liters). It produces 40 horsepower (29.8 kW) at a rated speed of 2000 RPM. The engine cooling system has a capacity of 16 quarts (15.1 liters), and the air intake is protected by an oil bath air cleaner to ensure longevity in dusty field conditions.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The drivetrain features a Warner Gear T-84 transmission, offering 6 forward gears and 2 reverse gears. This is complemented by a two-speed Spicer transfer case, which allows for additional torque or speed adjustments depending on the task. Power is transmitted through a dry disc clutch, and the tractor operates in a two-wheel-drive configuration with manual steering.
Chassis and Dimensions
Built with a wheelbase of 76.5 inches (194 cm), the Empire 88 has a total weight of 2,500 lbs (1134 kg). It is equipped with 5.50-16 agricultural front tires and 9-24 agricultural rear tires to provide necessary traction for light-duty field work. The operator station is an open design, typical of the era, providing direct access to the controls.
Electrical System
The electrical system is based on a 6-volt architecture. It utilizes an Autolight generator to maintain the battery charge, providing 35 amps of charging current to support the tractor's electrical requirements.
Conclusion
The Empire 88 represents a period of post-war agricultural mechanization in the United States. Its combination of a standard Willys engine and a versatile gear-driven transmission makes it a functional machine for small-scale farming or as a historical piece for collectors interested in mid-1940s American engineering.
Production Information of Empire, 88
- Built in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| Manufacturer | Empire |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Empire, 88
| Wheelbase | 76.5 inches [194 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2,500 lbs [1134 kg] |
| Ag front | 5.50-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 9-24 |
Engine Specifications of Empire, 88
- Willys
- Liquid-cooled
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder
| Coolant capacity | 16 qts [15.1 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 134.6 ci [2.2 L] |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.125x4.375 inches [79 x 111 mm] |
| Oil capacity | 4 qts [3.8 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2000 |
| Power | 40 hp [29.8 kW] |
Transmission Information of Empire, 88
Transmission variants 1
- Three gears (1-3) plus reverse (R) with a two-speed Spicer transfer case.
| Transmission | Warner Gear T-84 |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Dry disc |
| Type | Gear |
| Gears | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Empire, 88
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Power Information of Empire, 88
| Engine | 40 hp [29.8 kW] |
|---|
Electrical System of Empire, 88
| Charging system | Autolight generator |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
| Charging amps | 35 |
| Charging volts | 6 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 65th percentile of 1940s models in our database (263 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Empire 88 have?
The Empire 88 delivers 40 HP.
What years was the Empire 88 produced?
The Empire 88 was produced in 1946-1947.
What engine does the Empire 88 have?
The Empire 88 is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Empire 88 use?
The Empire 88 uses a Warner Gear T-84 transmission.
How much does the Empire 88 weigh?
The Empire 88 weighs 2,500 lbs [1134 kg].
Is the Empire 88 4WD?
The Empire 88 is available in 2WD.