Ford 946 tractor

Ford 946

Power

325 hp

Production

1989-1993

Engine

Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Constant mesh

Weight

32500 lbs [14742 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

976

Introduction

Ford 946: Heavy-Duty Articulated Four-Wheel Drive Tractor

The Ford 946 is an articulated four-wheel drive tractor produced between 1989 and 1993 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Part of the 976 series, this machine was engineered for large-scale agricultural operations requiring high tractive effort and consistent performance.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 14.0-liter (855 ci) six-cylinder turbocharged and aftercooled diesel engine. It delivers 325 horsepower (242.4 kW) at a rated speed of 2100 RPM. The engine features liquid cooling and a dry-element air cleaner, with an oil capacity of 37.0 liters and a coolant capacity of 60.3 liters.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Two transmission configurations were available: a 12-speed constant mesh transmission with a dry disc clutch, or a 12-speed full power shift transmission utilizing a wet disc clutch. The drivetrain features permanent four-wheel drive with articulated power steering and outboard planetary final drives to manage power delivery to the ground.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The hydraulic system utilizes a closed-center, load-sensing design capable of delivering 24.5 gpm (92.7 lpm) pump flow at 2300 psi. It supports four to five remote valves. The rear hitch is a category IVN/III system with position control, providing a lift capacity of 13,036 lbs (5,913 kg) at 24 inches behind the lift point.

Operator Environment and Dimensions

The tractor is equipped with a standard cab featuring air conditioning for operator comfort. It has a wheelbase of 130 inches (330 cm) and an overall length of 260 inches (660 cm). With a base weight of 32,500 lbs (14,742 kg), the machine is designed to maintain traction under heavy load conditions.

Conclusion

The Ford 946 is a high-horsepower tractor tailored for demanding primary tillage and heavy draft applications. Its combination of articulated steering, robust engine torque, and flexible transmission options makes it a reliable asset for large-acreage farming operations.

Production Information of Ford, 946

  • Original price was $106,000 in 1993
  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • Built in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
ManufacturerFord

Dimension and Tires Information of Ford, 946

Wheelbase130 inches [330 cm]
Ground clearance16.1 inches [40 cm]
Length260 inches [660 cm]
Weight32500 lbs [14742 kg]
Ag front24.5-32
Ag front(optional)20.8x38
Ag front(optional)18.4x42
Ag rear24.5-32
Ag rear18.4x38
Ag rear(optional)20.8x42
Ag front18.4x38
Ag front(optional)30.5x32
Ag front(optional)20.8x38
Ag front(optional)18.4x42
Ag front(optional)30.5x32

Engine Specifications of Ford, 946

  • Liquid-cooled inline
  • Turbocharged aftercooled diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Oil capacity39.1 qts [37.0 L]
Starter volts12
Air cleanerDry dry element
Coolant capacity63.7 qts [60.3 L]
Coolant capacity(optional)Block heater
Rated RPM2100
Pre-heatingEther injection
Displacement855 ci [14.0 L]
Power325 hp [242.4 kW]
Bore/Stroke5.50x6.00 inches [140 x 152 mm]
Torque RPM1400
Torque1057 lb-ft [1433.3 Nm]
Idle RPM1000-2100

Transmission Information of Ford, 946

Transmission variants 1

  • Four gears in three ranges, plus reverse range.
ManufacturerVersatile
Oil capacity21.5 qts [20.3 L]
Clutch394mm dry disc
TypeConstant mesh
Gears12 forward and 4 reverse

Transmission variants 2

TypeFull power shift
Oil capacity50 qts [47.3 L]
Gears12 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch228mm wet disc
  • 12-speed constant mesh
  • 12-speed full power shift

Mechanical Specs of Ford, 946

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Cab standard with air-conditioning.
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Articulated power steering
Final drivesOutboard planetary

Power Information of Ford, 946

Rear PTOIndependent
Rear PTO Type1000 (1.75)

PTO available only with power shift transmission.

Hydraulics Specifications of Ford, 946

Steering press.2300 psi [158.6 bar]
TypeClosed center load sensing
Pump flow24.5 gpm [92.7 lpm]
Valves4 to 5
Capacity15.3 gal [57.9 L]
Steering flow26.1 gpm [98.8 lpm]
Pressure2400 psi [165.5 bar]

Steering pump is open center.

Three-Point Hitch of Ford, 946

Rear TypeIVN/III
ControlPosition control
Rear lift (at 24"/610mm)13036 lbs [5913 kg]

Electrical System of Ford, 946

GroundNegative
Battery CCA625
Batteries4
Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts12
Charging amps90

Where it sits

With 325 HP, the Ford 946 sits just below 976 (360 HP) in Ford's range. Its power puts it in the 96th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Ford 946 have?

The Ford 946 delivers 325 HP.

What years was the Ford 946 produced?

The Ford 946 was produced in 1989-1993.

What engine does the Ford 946 have?

The Ford 946 is powered by a Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Ford 946 use?

The Ford 946 uses a Constant mesh transmission.

How much does the Ford 946 weigh?

The Ford 946 weighs 32500 lbs [14742 kg].

Is the Ford 946 4WD?

The Ford 946 is available in 4WD.

Compare the Ford 946 with another model