Introduction
Ford 6000 Row-Crop Tractor
The Ford 6000 is a row-crop tractor produced between 1961 and 1964 in Highland Park, Michigan. As part of Ford's agricultural machinery lineup, it was engineered as a high-capacity machine for demanding field operations, characterized by its distinct hydraulic system and power-shift transmission.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 223 cubic-inch (3.7 L) liquid-cooled, 6-cylinder gasoline engine. It operates at a rated speed of 2400 RPM, delivering 73 horsepower. The engine configuration includes a compression ratio of 8.4:1 and an oil bath air cleaner system to ensure durability in dusty agricultural environments.
Transmission and Hydraulics
The Ford 6000 features the 'Select-O-Speed' full power-shift transmission, providing 10 forward and 2 reverse gears. Its hydraulic system is of the closed-center type, known as 'Power-Stor'. This system utilizes a high-pressure accumulator, allowing hydraulic functions to remain operational even when the engine is turned off. The system provides a pump flow of 4.5 gpm (17.0 lpm) at a pressure of 1900 psi.
Power Take-Off and Hitch
Equipped with an independent rear PTO, the tractor offers two operating speeds: 540 and 1000 RPM. An economy PTO option was also available, allowing the operator to reach full rated PTO speeds at a reduced engine speed of 1730 RPM. The rear hitch is a Category II type, compatible with a wide range of row-crop implements.
Mechanical Configuration
Built as a two-wheel-drive machine, the Ford 6000 includes power-assisted steering to improve maneuverability. Braking is provided by differential hydraulic wet disc brakes. The tractor features an open operator station with a wheelbase of 95 inches and adjustable tread widths for both front and rear axles to accommodate various row spacings.
Conclusion
The Ford 6000 represents a significant period in Ford's tractor development. While its innovative hydraulic and transmission systems were advanced for the era, the model faced operational challenges leading to a factory recall. Today, it serves as a notable machine for collectors and enthusiasts of 1960s agricultural engineering.
Production Information of Ford, 6000
- The Ford 6000 featured an economy PTO option which provided full 540 or 1000 rpms at a lower engine speed (1,730 rpm). The 6000 was recalled by Ford due to a number of problems. The 6000 was originally red, but the rebuilt tractors were blue starting in 1963.
- Original price was $4,900 in 1967
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Highland Park, Michigan, USA
| Manufacturer | Ford |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Ford, 6000
| Wheelbase | 95 inches [241 cm] |
|---|---|
| Rear tread | 56 to 90 inches [142 to 228 cm] |
| Front tread | 56 to 84 inches [142 to 213 cm] |
| Length | 149 inches [378 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 68 inches [172 cm] |
| Ag front | 6.00x16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 15.5x38 |
| Ag rear(optional) | 9.00x10 |
| Ag rear | 13.6x38 |
| Ag front | 6.50x16 |
Single front wheel option.
Engine Specifications of Ford, 6000
- Ford
- Liquid-cooled
- Gasoline
- 6-cylinder
| Coolant capacity | 21 qts [19.9 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 223 ci [3.7 L] |
| Compression | 8.4:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.62x3.60 inches [92 x 91 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Rated RPM | 2400 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of Ford, 6000
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | Ford Select-O-Speed |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 3 qts [2.8 L] |
| Type | Full power shift |
| Gears | 10 forward and 2 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Ford, 6000
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Differential hydraulic wet disc brakes
| Steering | Power assist |
|---|
Power Information of Ford, 6000
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540/1000 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Ford, 6000
| Type | Closed center |
|---|---|
| Pump flow | 4.5 gpm [17.0 lpm] |
| Capacity | 3.5 gal [13.2 L] |
| Pressure | 1900 psi [131.0 bar] |
The Ford 6000 "Power-Stor" hydraulics used a high-pressure accumulator and hydraulic function is still live even with the tractor off.
Three-Point Hitch of Ford, 6000
| Rear Type | II |
|---|
Where it sits
With 73 hp[P] HP, the Ford 6000 sits just above Commander 6000 (72 HP) in Ford's range. Its power puts it in the 74th percentile of 1960s models in our database (709 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Ford 6000 have?
The Ford 6000 delivers 73 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Ford 6000 produced?
The Ford 6000 was produced in 1961-1964.
What engine does the Ford 6000 have?
The Ford 6000 is powered by a Gasoline, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Ford 6000 use?
The Ford 6000 uses a Ford Select-O-Speed transmission.
Is the Ford 6000 4WD?
The Ford 6000 is available in 2WD.