Farmall A tractor

Farmall A

Power

21 hp[B] hp

Production

1939-1947

Engine

4-cylinder

Transmission

Gear

Weight

3450 lbs [1564 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

Introduction

International Harvester Farmall A, Row-Crop Tractor

The International Harvester Farmall A is a classic row-crop tractor produced between 1939 and 1947. Designed for specialized agricultural tasks, it is recognized for its unique 'Cultivision' offset engine configuration, which improved visibility for the operator during row-crop operations.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by an International Harvester 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 113.1 cubic inches (1.9 liters). It utilizes a liquid-cooling system and runs on kerosene. The engine produces approximately 21 horsepower at a rated speed of 1400 RPM. The firing order is 1-3-4-2, and the unit features a manual starter with an optional electric starting system supported by a 6-volt electrical battery.

Transmission and PTO

The drivetrain consists of a gear-type transmission providing 4 forward speeds and 1 reverse gear. It is equipped with a rear power take-off (PTO) shaft operating at a standard 540 RPM, utilizing a 1.125-inch shaft diameter, facilitating the connection of various implements.

Mechanical and Hydraulic Systems

The Farmall A utilizes a two-wheel drive configuration. Steering is handled manually, and braking is managed by mechanical contracting band brakes. For implement management, the tractor is equipped with the IH Pneumatic 'Lift-All' system, which provides hydraulic assistance for lifting and lowering mounted equipment.

Dimensions and Chassis

The tractor has a base weight of 2,400 lbs (1,088 kg), which can be increased to 3,450 lbs (1,564 kg) with ballast. It measures 106.3 inches in length and 76.8 inches in width. The design provides a generous rear axle clearance of 20.875 inches, allowing for operation over growing crops without damage.

Conclusion

With 117,552 units built, the Farmall A remains a significant model in agricultural history. Its offset engine design and row-crop capabilities make it a suitable machine for small-to-medium scale farming operations of the mid-20th century and a favored subject for tractor restoration and collection.

Production Information of Farmall, A

  • The Farmall A and B were nearly identical tractors. The A featured an offset engine and wide front end. The offset engine was known as "Cultivision". The B had a centered engine, seat offset to the right, and narrow front end. A high-crop AV version was available.
  • Row-Crop tractor
  • Original price was $750 in 1947
ManufacturerFarmall (a part of International Harvester)
Total built117,552
Total built(optional)Louisville, Kentucky, USA
FactoriesChicago, Illinois, USA

Dimension and Tires Information of Farmall, A

Clearance (rear axle)20.875 inches [53 cm]
Length106.3 inches [270 cm]
Ballasted weight3450 lbs [1564 kg]
Weight2400 lbs [1088 kg]
Width76.8 inches [195 cm]
Front tread43 inches [109 cm]
Clearance (front axle)21.875 inches [55 cm]
Height (steering wheel)63.3 inches [160 cm]
Rear tread40 to 68 inches [101 to 172 cm]
Front tread44 to 64 inches [111 to 162 cm]
Ag front4.00-15
Ag front(optional)5-30
Ag front(optional)10-24
Ag rear8-24
Ag front9-24

Engine Specifications of Farmall, A

  • International Harvester
  • Liquid-cooled
  • 4-cylinder
  • Kerosene
Firing order1-3-4-2
Starter volts6
Displacement113.1 ci [1.9 L]
Bore/Stroke3.00x4.00 inches [76 x 102 mm]
Rated RPM1400
Rated RPM(optional)Electric
StarterManual
Coolant capacity13 qts [12.3 L]
Coolant capacity13 qts [12.3 L]
Oil capacity5 qts [4.7 L]

Transmission Information of Farmall, A

Transmission variants 1

ManufacturerInternational Harvester
TypeGear
Gears4 forward and 1 reverse

Mechanical Specs of Farmall, A

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station.
  • Manual steering
  • Mechanical contracting band brakes

Power Information of Farmall, A

Rear PTOTransmission
Rear PTO Type540 (1.125)

Three-Point Hitch of Farmall, A

TypeIH Pneumatic Lift-All

Electrical System of Farmall, A

GroundPositive
Charging systemGenerator
Battery volts6

Where it sits

With 21 hp[B] HP, the Farmall A sits just above Super A (17 HP) in Farmall's range. Its power puts it in the 14th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Farmall A have?

The Farmall A delivers 21 hp[B] HP.

What years was the Farmall A produced?

The Farmall A was produced in 1939-1947.

What engine does the Farmall A have?

The Farmall A is powered by a 4-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Farmall A use?

The Farmall A uses a Gear transmission.

How much does the Farmall A weigh?

The Farmall A weighs 3450 lbs [1564 kg].

Is the Farmall A 4WD?

The Farmall A is available in 2WD.

Compare the Farmall A with another model