Introduction
Ford 4230: Technical Overview of the Orchard and Vineyard Tractor
Produced between 1992 and 1997, the Ford 4230 is a specialized utility tractor designed primarily for orchard and vineyard applications. This machine, technically identical to the Fiat 72-86, represents a period of collaboration between Ford and Fiat, offering a balance of mechanical simplicity and operational versatility for specialized agricultural environments.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 3.6-liter, 4-cylinder liquid-cooled Fiat diesel engine. With a displacement of 220.5 cubic inches, it generates a rated power output of 68 horsepower at 2500 RPM. The engine features a Thermostart pre-heating system to facilitate cold-weather starting and operates on a 12-volt electrical system.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 4230 provides two transmission configurations: a standard 12-speed gear transmission or a 12-speed shuttle transmission, allowing for efficient speed control and directional maneuvering. It is available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive variants, with final drives utilizing an inboard planetary system. Steering is power-assisted, and the machine is equipped with mechanical wet disc brakes and a mechanical rear differential lock for enhanced traction and control.
Hydraulics and PTO
The hydraulic system utilizes an open-center design, delivering a pump flow of 11 gallons per minute (41.6 lpm) with a system pressure of 2740 psi. It supports 2 or 3 remote valves. The rear independent PTO offers dual-speed functionality at 540 and 1000 RPM, providing the necessary power for various implements. The rear hitch is a Category II type, featuring both position control and lower-link draft sensing, with a lift capacity of 5931 lbs.
Conclusion
The Ford 4230 is a robust, mid-range utility tractor suited for row-crop operations, specifically within orchards and vineyards. Its combination of a high-torque diesel engine, flexible transmission options, and substantial lift capacity makes it a reliable asset for farmers requiring a maneuverable yet powerful machine for specialized tasks.
Production Information of Ford, 4230
- The Ford/New Holland 4230 is the same as the Fiat 72-86.
- Original price was $25,000 in 1997
- Orchard/Vineyard tractor
| Distributor | Ford |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Fiat |
Dimension and Tires Information of Ford, 4230
| 2WD Front tread | 46 to 58 inches [116 to 147 cm] |
|---|---|
| 2WD Wheelbase | 78.8 inches [200 cm] |
| 2WD Width | 57.5 inches [146 cm] |
| 4WD Length | 144.5 inches [367 cm] |
| 4WD Wheelbase | 83.1 inches [211 cm] |
| 4WD Weight | 5290 lbs [2399 kg] |
| 4WD Width | 58.5 inches [148 cm] |
| 2WD Length | 138.5 inches [351 cm] |
| Rear tread | 42 to 57 inches [106 to 144 cm] |
| 4WD Front tread | 47 to 53 inches [119 to 134 cm] |
| 4WD Clearance (front axle) | 15.5 inches [39 cm] |
| 4WD Clearance (front axle) | 15.4 inches [39 cm] |
| 2WD Weight | 4871 lbs [2209 kg] |
| 2WD Standard tires (ag) | Front: 27x9.50-15. Rear: 14.9x24 |
|---|---|
| 4WD Standard tires (ag) | Front: 9.5-16. Rear: 14.9x24 |
Engine Specifications of Ford, 4230
- Fiat
- Liquid-cooled
- Diesel
- 4-cylinder
| Pre-heating | Thermostart |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 220.5 ci [3.6 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2500 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.937x4.527 inches [100 x 115 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Ford, 4230
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 12 forward and 4 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| Type | Shuttle |
|---|---|
| Gears | 12 forward and reverse |
- 12-speed gear
- 12-speed shuttle
Mechanical Specs of Ford, 4230
- Two- or four-wheel drive
- Mechanical wet disc brakes
- Power steering
- Two-post mid-mount ROPS. Cab optional with air-conditioning.
| Final drives | Inboard planetary |
|---|---|
| Differential lock | Mechanical rear |
Power Information of Ford, 4230
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540/1000 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Ford, 4230
| Steering press. | 1450 psi [100.0 bar] |
|---|---|
| Type | Open center |
| Pump flow | 11 gpm [41.6 lpm] |
| Valves | 2 or 3 |
| Capacity | 11.3 gal [42.8 L] |
| Steering flow | 8.1 gpm [30.7 lpm] |
| Pressure | 2740 psi [188.9 bar] |
Three-Point Hitch of Ford, 4230
| Rear Type | II |
|---|---|
| Control | Position control and lower-link draft sensing |
| Rear lift | 5931 lbs [2690 kg] |
Electrical System of Ford, 4230
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Cab Charging amps | 65 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| ROPS Charging amps | 33 |
Where it sits
With 68 hp[P] HP, the Ford 4230 sits between 4030 (56 HP) and 4430 (77 HP) in Ford's range. Its power puts it in the 45th percentile of 1990s models in our database (2097 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Ford 4230 have?
The Ford 4230 delivers 68 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Ford 4230 produced?
The Ford 4230 was produced in 1992-1997.
What engine does the Ford 4230 have?
The Ford 4230 is powered by a Diesel, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Ford 4230 use?
The Ford 4230 uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the Ford 4230 weigh?
The Ford 4230 weighs 5290 lbs [2399 kg].
Is the Ford 4230 4WD?
The Ford 4230 is available in 2WD/4WD.