Ford 976 tractor

Ford 976

Power

360 hp

Production

1989-1993

Engine

Aftercooled turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Constant mesh

Weight

36000 lbs [16329 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

946

Introduction

Ford 976 Four-Wheel Drive Tractor

The Ford 976 is a high-horsepower four-wheel drive tractor produced between 1989 and 1993. Built in Winnipeg, Manitoba, this machine was designed for large-scale agricultural operations requiring significant traction and power.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 14.0-liter, 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with aftercooling. It produces a rated output of 360 horsepower at 2100 RPM and generates 1170 lb-ft of torque at 1400 RPM. The liquid-cooled engine features a dual dry element air cleaner and an ether injection system for cold-start assistance.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The 976 offers two transmission configurations: a 12-speed constant mesh transmission with four gears across three ranges, or a 12-speed full power shift transmission. The constant mesh system utilizes a 394mm dry disc clutch, while the power shift version employs a 228mm wet disc clutch. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an articulated steering system and outboard planetary final drives.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The hydraulic system is a closed-center load-sensing type, providing a pump flow of 24.5 gpm at 2400 psi. It supports 4 to 5 hydraulic valves for implement control. The rear hitch is a Category IVN/III system with position control, capable of lifting 13,036 lbs at a distance of 24 inches from the lift point.

Dimensions and Operator Environment

Featuring a 130-inch wheelbase and 16.1 inches of ground clearance, the tractor is configured for heavy-duty field work. The operator station consists of a standard cab equipped with an air-conditioning system to ensure environmental control during extended shifts. The total machine weight can reach up to 36,000 lbs depending on ballast and tire configuration.

Conclusion

The Ford 976 represents a heavy-duty solution for large-acreage farming, combining a high-torque engine with robust hydraulic and drivetrain components. It remains a notable example of late-20th-century agricultural engineering suitable for demanding primary tillage and heavy implement operations.

Production Information of Ford, 976

  • Original price was $113,500 in 1993
  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • Built in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
ManufacturerFord

Dimension and Tires Information of Ford, 976

Wheelbase130 inches [330 cm]
Ground clearance16.1 inches [40 cm]
Max weight36000 lbs [16329 kg]
Length260 inches [660 cm]
Shipping weight21100 lbs [9570 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, 976

  • Liquid-cooled inline
  • Aftercooled turbocharged diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Oil capacity39.1 qts [37.0 L]
Starter volts12
Air cleanerDual dry element
Coolant capacity63.7 qts [60.3 L]
Coolant capacity(optional)Block heater
Rated RPM2100
Pre-heatingEther injection
Displacement855 ci [14.0 L]
Power360 hp [268.5 kW]
Bore/Stroke5.50x6.00 inches [140 x 152 mm]
Torque RPM1400
Torque1170 lb-ft [1586.5 Nm]
Idle RPM1000-2100

Transmission Information of Ford, 976

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, 976

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

Power Information of Ford, 976

Rear PTOIndependent
Rear PTO Type1000 (1.75)

PTO available only with power shift transmission.

Hydraulics Specifications of Ford, 976

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, 976

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

Electrical System of Ford, 976

GroundNegative
Battery CCA625
Batteries4
Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts12
Charging amps90

Where it sits

With 360 HP, the Ford 976 sits just above 946 (325 HP) in Ford's range. Its power puts it in the 98th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Ford 976 have?

The Ford 976 delivers 360 HP.

What years was the Ford 976 produced?

The Ford 976 was produced in 1989-1993.

What engine does the Ford 976 have?

The Ford 976 is powered by a Aftercooled turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Ford 976 use?

The Ford 976 uses a Constant mesh transmission.

How much does the Ford 976 weigh?

The Ford 976 weighs 36000 lbs [16329 kg].

Is the Ford 976 4WD?

The Ford 976 is available in 4WD.

Compare the Ford 976 with another model