Introduction
Fordson New Major (1952-1958)
The Fordson New Major is a two-wheel drive agricultural tractor manufactured by Fordson in Dagenham, England. Produced between 1952 and 1958, this model is a significant part of the Fordson Major series, designed to provide reliable mechanical power for mid-century farming operations.
Engine Specifications
The tractor is powered by a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 220 cubic inches (3.6 liters). It operates at a rated speed of 1600 RPM with a compression ratio of 16.0:1. The engine cooling system has a capacity of 12.4 quarts (11.7 liters), while the oil system requires 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters).
Transmission and Drivetrain
The New Major utilizes a gear-type transmission providing 6 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds, organized into three speeds plus reverse across two ranges. Power is transferred via a dry disc clutch. The electrical system features a 12-volt battery with a positive ground configuration.
Hydraulics and PTO
The tractor is equipped with a rear Category II hitch for implement attachment. It features a transmission-driven rear PTO operating at 540 RPM. Notably, a live PTO option became available starting in 1957, enhancing the tractor's capability to operate implements independently of the transmission clutch.
Dimensions and Chassis
With a wheelbase of 80 inches (203 cm) and a total weight of 5,308 lbs (2407 kg), the tractor offers a stable platform for field work. It features manual steering and an open operator station. The front axle provides a clearance of 19.5 inches (49 cm), while the drawbar clearance is 13.13 inches (33 cm). It is fitted with 7.50-16 front and 14-30 rear agricultural tires.
Conclusion
The Fordson New Major is a robust, manual-steer utility tractor suited for general agricultural tasks. Its simple, durable mechanical design and the availability of a live PTO option in later years made it a versatile choice for farmers during the 1950s.
Production Information of Fordson, New Major
- Built in Dagenham, England
| Manufacturer | Fordson (a part of Ford) |
|---|---|
| Original price | $3,417 |
Dimension and Tires Information of Fordson, New Major
| Clearance (front axle) | 19.5 inches [49 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 80 inches [203 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 57.35 inches [145 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 63 inches [160 cm] |
| Length | 130.5 inches [331 cm] |
| Clearance (drawbar) | 13.13 inches [33 cm] |
| Weight | 5,308 lbs [2407 kg] |
| Width | 65 inches [165 cm] |
| Ag front | 7.50-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 14-30 |
Engine Specifications of Fordson, New Major
- Liquid-cooled
- 4-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 7.2 qts [6.8 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 220 ci [3.6 L] |
| Oil capacity | 7.2 qts [6.8 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1600 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.937x4.52 inches [100 x 115 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 12.4 qts [11.7 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Firing order | 1-2-4-3 |
| Compression | 16.0 : 1 |
Transmission Information of Fordson, New Major
Transmission variants 1
- Three speeds, plus reverse, in two ranges.
| 90o↔10oF [32o↔-12oC] | : SAE90 |
|---|---|
| Type | Gear |
| Oil type | 90oF [32oC]↑ : SAE140 90o↔10oF [32o↔-12oC] : SAE90 10oF [-12oC]↓ : SAE80 |
| Oil capacity | 21.6 qts [20.4 L] |
| Gears | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
| 10oF [-12oC]↓ | : SAE80 |
| 90oF [32oC]↑ | : SAE140 |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Fordson, New Major
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station
Power Information of Fordson, New Major
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | Live |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Live PTO became an option in 1957.
Three-Point Hitch of Fordson, New Major
| Rear Type | II |
|---|
Electrical System of Fordson, New Major
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 38 hp[P] HP, the Fordson New Major sits between Major (27 HP) and Power Major (52 HP) in Fordson's range. Its power puts it in the 51th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Fordson New Major have?
The Fordson New Major delivers 38 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Fordson New Major produced?
The Fordson New Major was produced in 1952-1958.
What engine does the Fordson New Major have?
The Fordson New Major is powered by a 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Fordson New Major use?
The Fordson New Major uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the Fordson New Major weigh?
The Fordson New Major weighs 5,308 lbs [2407 kg].
Is the Fordson New Major 4WD?
The Fordson New Major is available in 2WD.