Introduction
International Harvester Farmall Super M
The International Harvester Farmall Super M is a row-crop tractor produced between 1952 and 1954. It represents a significant evolution in the mid-century Farmall line, designed to provide increased performance for diverse agricultural operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by an International Harvester four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, vertical I-head engine. With a displacement of 264 cubic inches (4.3 liters) and a compression ratio of 6.75:1, it operates at a rated speed of 1450 RPM. This power plant is engineered for consistent torque delivery in field applications.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The drivetrain features a two-wheel drive system paired with a sliding gear transmission, offering five forward speeds and one reverse gear. Power is transferred to the transmission via a 12-inch dry disc clutch. Braking is managed by differential mechanical dry disc brakes, providing reliable stopping power.
Hydraulics and Implement Control
The Super M utilizes the IH Lift-All hydraulic system. Depending on the production stage, it features either a transmission-driven pump or a live engine-driven pump, the latter significantly improving the tractor's ability to operate implements independently of the transmission state.
Chassis and Dimensions
Built with a wheelbase of 89.25 inches (226 cm) and a total weight of 5603 lbs (2541 kg), the tractor offers a stable operating platform. It provides a ground clearance of 15.5 inches at the frame, with rear axle clearance reaching 26.25 inches, facilitating work in tall crops.
Conclusion
The Farmall Super M is a robust, mechanically straightforward machine that serves as a cornerstone of mid-1950s agricultural technology. Its balance of power, mechanical simplicity, and hydraulic capabilities makes it a well-regarded model for both restoration enthusiasts and historical agricultural equipment analysis.
Videos
Production Information of Farmall, Super M
- Row-Crop tractor
- The basic Farmall/IH model is the Super M. The Super MD is diesel. The Super MTA has the torque amplifier and independent PTO, and was built only in 1954.
- Original price was $2,500 in 1954
| Manufacturer | Farmall (a part of International Harvester) |
|---|---|
| Total built | 57,092 |
| Total built(optional) | Louisville, Kentucky, USA |
| Total built(optional) | 245 (Super MV) |
| Total built(optional) | 44,551 (Rock Island) |
| Factories | Rock Island, Illinois, USA |
Dimension and Tires Information of Farmall, Super M
| Clearance (rear axle) | 26.25 inches [66 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 89.25 inches [226 cm] |
| Weight | 5603 lbs [2541 kg] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 79 inches [200 cm] |
| Length | 134.6 inches [341 cm] |
| Bar rear axle | 2.75 inch diameter [69 mm] |
| Ground clearance | 15.5 inches (frame) [39 cm] |
| Width | 84.5 inches [214 cm] |
| Ag front | 6.00-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 12-38 |
Engine Specifications of Farmall, Super M
- International Harvester
- Liquid-cooled vertical I-head
- LP gas
- 4-cylinder
| Intake valve clearance | 0.017 inches (hot) [0.432 mm] |
|---|---|
| Sparkplug gap | 0.023 inches [0.584 mm] |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.017 inches (hot) [0.432 mm] |
| Rated RPM | 1450 |
| Firing order | 1-3-4-2 |
| Compression | 6.75:1 |
| Displacement | 264 ci [4.3 L] |
| Fuel use | 5.211 gal/hour [19.7 l/hour] |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.00x5.25 inches [102 x 133 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 26 qts [24.6 L] |
| Starter volts | 6 |
| Starter volts | 6 |
Transmission Information of Farmall, Super M
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Sliding gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 52 qts [49.2 L] |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 12-inch dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Farmall, Super M
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Differential mechanical dry disc brakes
Power Information of Farmall, Super M
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Farmall, Super M
| Type | IH Lift-All |
|---|
Transmission driven pump on early model, live engine-driven pump on Stage II models
Electrical System of Farmall, Super M
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Charging system | Generator |
| Battery volts | 6 |
Where it sits
With 51 hp[B] HP, the Farmall Super M sits between M (38 HP) and 400 (56 HP) in Farmall's range. Its power puts it in the 76th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Farmall Super M have?
The Farmall Super M delivers 51 hp[B] HP.
What years was the Farmall Super M produced?
The Farmall Super M was produced in 1952-1954.
What engine does the Farmall Super M have?
The Farmall Super M is powered by a LP gas, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Farmall Super M use?
The Farmall Super M uses a Sliding gear transmission.
How much does the Farmall Super M weigh?
The Farmall Super M weighs 5603 lbs [2541 kg].
Is the Farmall Super M 4WD?
The Farmall Super M is available in 2WD.