Ford 8600 tractor

Ford 8600

Power

123 hp[P] hp

Production

1972-1976

Engine

6-cylinder

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

9600

Introduction

Ford 8600 Agricultural Tractor

The Ford 8600 is a two-wheel drive agricultural tractor produced between 1972 and 1976. Manufactured in Romeo, Michigan, this model represents a significant entry in the mid-1970s heavy-duty tractor segment, designed to offer high operational power and mechanical reliability for field operations.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, 6-cylinder engine with a displacement of 401 cubic inches (6.6 liters). It operates at a rated speed of 2300 RPM. The engine features a compression ratio of 16.5:1 and utilizes a dry air cleaner system. It is designed to provide consistent power output suitable for intensive agricultural tasks.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Two transmission configurations were available: a standard 8-speed (8 forward, 2 reverse) manual gearbox and the optional 'Dual Power' partial power shift transmission, which provides 16 forward and 4 reverse gears. The Dual Power system allows for on-the-fly shifting between high and low ranges via foot-operated buttons, enhancing operational flexibility.

Hydraulics and PTO

The hydraulic system features a main pump flow of 12 GPM (45.4 lpm) at a pressure of 2500 psi, with a separate steering circuit providing 4.2 GPM (15.9 lpm). The rear Power Take-Off (PTO) is independent and offers dual-speed capability at 540 and 1000 RPM, allowing for the operation of a wide variety of implements.

Mechanical and Operator Environment

The chassis is equipped with power steering and differential hydraulic wet disc brakes. The tractor features a standard open operator station, with a factory cab option available for increased operator comfort. It utilizes a Category II rear hitch for implement attachment.

Conclusion

The Ford 8600 remains a capable machine for farmers requiring a robust two-wheel drive platform with significant pulling power and versatile speed management, supported by a proven 6-cylinder engine architecture.

Production Information of Ford, 8600

  • Built in Romeo, Michigan, USA
  • Original price was $15,200 in 1976
ManufacturerFord

Dimension and Tires Information of Ford, 8600

Wheelbase91.5 inches (all purpose) [232 cm]
Width85 inches [215 cm]
Width(optional)148.3 inches (all purpose) [376 cm]
Width(optional)108 inches (row crop) [274 cm]
Width(optional)24 inches (row crop front axle) [60 cm]
Ground clearance25.3 inches (all purpose front axle) [64 cm]
Length154.8 inches (row crop) [393 cm]
Length(optional)25.2 inches (row crop rear axle) [64 cm]
Ag front7.50-18 (all purpose)
Ag front10.00-16
Ag front(optional)16.9-34 (row-crop)
Ag front(optional)7.50-16 (row-crop)
Ag front(optional)23.1-30
Ag front(optional)7.50-18
Ag rear18.4-34 (all purpose)
Ag rear(optional)15.5-38
Ag rear(optional)23.1-34
Ag rear18.4-38

Engine Specifications of Ford, 8600

  • Liquid-cooled
  • 6-cylinder
Exhaust valve clearance0.018 inches (hot) [0.457 mm]
Compression16.5:1
Rated RPM2300
Starter volts12
Firing order1-5-3-6-2-4
Displacement401 ci [6.6 L]
Oil capacity12 qts [11.4 L]
Air cleanerDry
Bore/Stroke4.40x4.40 inches [112 x 112 mm]
Intake valve clearance0.015 inches (hot) [0.381 mm]
Intake valve clearance(optional)19.5 qts (with heater) [18.5 L]
Coolant capacity18 qts [17.0 L]

Transmission Information of Ford, 8600

Transmission variants 1

  • Four gears with two ranges. The up-shift from 3-to-4 and 7-to-8 synchronized. Tractor must be stopped, and clutch used, for all other shifts.
Gears8 forward and 2 reverse
Oil capacity64 qts [60.6 L]

Transmission variants 2

  • Dual Power adds a power shift to the basic eight-speed transmission. Two foot buttons control the shift, the left button engages direct drive (normal) mode while the right "power drive" button provides the lower range. The power drive button must be down for stationary PTO work.
TransmissionDual Power
Oil capacity69 qts [65.3 L]
TypePartial power shift
Gears16 forward and 4 reverse
  • 8-speed
  • 16-speed partial power shift

Mechanical Specs of Ford, 8600

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station. Cab optional.
  • Differential hydraulic wet disc brakes
  • Power steering
Differential lockFoot pedal

Power Information of Ford, 8600

Rear PTOIndependent
Rear PTO Type540/1000

Hydraulics Specifications of Ford, 8600

Steering press.1500 psi [103.4 bar]
Capacity16 gal [60.6 L]
Steering flow4.2 gpm [15.9 lpm]
Pump flow12 gpm [45.4 lpm]
Pump flow(optional)17.3 gal (Dual Power) [65.5 L]
Steering cap.3 qts [2.8 L]
Pressure2500 psi [172.4 bar]

Three-Point Hitch of Ford, 8600

Rear TypeII

Electrical System of Ford, 8600

GroundNegative
Battery AH128
Battery volts12
Charging systemAlternator
Charging amps55

Where it sits

With 123 hp[P] HP, the Ford 8600 sits between 8000 (115 HP) and 8700 (127 HP) in Ford's range. Its power puts it in the 76th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Ford 8600 have?

The Ford 8600 delivers 123 hp[P] HP.

What years was the Ford 8600 produced?

The Ford 8600 was produced in 1972-1976.

What engine does the Ford 8600 have?

The Ford 8600 is powered by a 6-cylinder engine.

Is the Ford 8600 4WD?

The Ford 8600 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Ford 8600 with another model