Introduction
International Harvester 300 Utility Tractor
The International Harvester 300 is a utility tractor produced between 1955 and 1956. Part of the 300 series, this model was designed for general agricultural applications and marked a significant milestone for the manufacturer, with nearly 60,000 units produced across all variations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the International Harvester C169, a 169-cubic-inch (2.8 L) liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder engine. Configured for LP gas operation, it delivers a rated 45 horsepower at 1750 RPM. The engine utilizes an oil bath air cleaner and requires a 5.7-liter oil capacity for maintenance.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The IH 300 offers two transmission configurations: a standard 5-speed sliding gear transmission or an optional 10-speed transmission featuring the International Harvester Torque Amplifier, which functions as a two-speed power shift. Both options utilize a dry disc clutch and provide the flexibility needed for various field speeds. The tractor is built on a two-wheel-drive chassis equipped with differential mechanical disc brakes.
Hydraulics and Implements
The hydraulic system features a capacity of 3.25 gallons (12.3 L). For implement operation, the tractor is equipped with a 540 RPM independent rear PTO (with Torque Amplifier) and utilizes the IH Fast Hitch system, which was designed to facilitate quick and secure attachment of implements.
Dimensions and Chassis
With a 75-inch (190 cm) wheelbase and an operating weight of 4,313 lbs (1,956 kg), the IH 300 provides a balance of stability and maneuverability. The machine features an open operator station for visibility and can be ballasted up to 6,603 lbs (2,995 kg) for heavier traction requirements. It supports various tire configurations, including 5.50-16 or 6.00-16 front tires and 10-28, 11-28, or 13-24 rear tires.
Conclusion
The International Harvester 300 is a representative utility tractor of the mid-1950s, noted for its reliable C169 engine and the inclusion of the Torque Amplifier system. It remains a functional piece of machinery suitable for collectors and historical agricultural use.
Production Information of International Harvester, 300
- The 3 millionth International Harvester built tractor was an IH 300 utility, serial number 501, on April 5, 1955.
- Utility tractor
- Original price was $2,900 in 1956
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | 29,077 (Farmall) |
| Manufacturer(optional) | 30,851 (IH) |
| Total built | 59,928 (total) |
Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, 300
| Ground clearance | 20.5 inches [52 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 75 inches [190 cm] |
| Operating weight | 4313 lbs [1956 kg] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 59 inches [149 cm] |
| Length | 119 inches [302 cm] |
| Ballasted weight | 6603 lbs [2995 kg] |
| Width | 65.25 inches [165 cm] |
Minimum width.
| Ag front | 5.50-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag front(optional) | 13-24 |
| Ag rear | 12-24 |
| Ag rear | 10-28 |
| Ag rear(optional) | 12-28 |
| Ag rear(optional) | 14-24 |
| Ag front | 6.00-16 |
Engine Specifications of International Harvester, 300
- International Harvester C169
- Liquid-cooled
- LP gas
- 4-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 6 qts [5.7 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 169 ci [2.8 L] |
| Compression | 8.75:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.5625x4.25 inches [90 x 108 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 16 qts [15.1 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Rated RPM | 1750 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of International Harvester, 300
Transmission variants 1
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Dry disc |
| Type | Sliding gear |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| Transmission | International Harvestor Torque Amplifier |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Dry disc |
| Type | Two-speed power shift |
| Gears | 10 forward and 2 reverse |
- 5-speed sliding gear
- 10-speed two-speed power shift
Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, 300
- Two-wheel drive
- Differential mechanical disc brakes
- Open operator station.
Power Information of International Harvester, 300
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | Independent (with TA) |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Hydraulics Specifications of International Harvester, 300
| Capacity | 3.25 gal [12.3 L] |
|---|
Three-Point Hitch of International Harvester, 300
| Type | IH Fast Hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of International Harvester, 300
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
| Battery volts(optional) | 12 (LP gas) |
Where it sits
With 45 hp[B] HP, the International Harvester 300 sits just below 350 (51 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 66th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the International Harvester 300 have?
The International Harvester 300 delivers 45 hp[B] HP.
What years was the International Harvester 300 produced?
The International Harvester 300 was produced in 1955-1956.
What engine does the International Harvester 300 have?
The International Harvester 300 is powered by a LP gas, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the International Harvester 300 use?
The International Harvester 300 uses a Sliding gear transmission.
How much does the International Harvester 300 weigh?
The International Harvester 300 weighs 4313 lbs [1956 kg].
Is the International Harvester 300 4WD?
The International Harvester 300 is available in 2WD.