International Harvester 5488 tractor

International Harvester 5488

Power

205 hp[P] hp

Production

1981-1985

Engine

Intercooled turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Synchro Tri-Six (STS)

Drive

2WD/4WD

From the same series:

5288

Introduction

International Harvester 5488 Row-Crop Tractor

The International Harvester 5488 is a row-crop tractor produced from 1981 to 1985 in Rock Island, Illinois. This heavy-duty machine was designed to provide significant power for large-scale agricultural operations, featuring a 205 horsepower engine and robust mechanical architecture.

Engine Specifications

The tractor is powered by the International Harvester DTI-466B engine, a 7.6-liter, 6-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel unit. It utilizes an intercooled turbocharger system to enhance efficiency and power delivery. The engine is designed to operate at a rated speed of 2400 RPM.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The 5488 utilizes the Synchro Tri-Six (STS) partial power shift transmission, offering 18 forward and 6 reverse gears. This system allows for clutch-free powershifting within gear pairs 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6, while synchronized shifting is required between pairs. It is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations with mechanical rear differential locks.

Hydraulics and PTO

The tractor features a closed-center hydraulic system with a standard pump flow of 25 gpm, which can reach a total flow capacity of 67 gpm with optional configurations. It is equipped with an independent rear PTO operating at 1000 RPM, providing consistent power to implements. The rear hitch is a Category III type with a lift capacity of 8076 lbs (3663 kg).

Operator Environment

The cab is standard on all models, including integrated heating and air-conditioning systems to maintain operator comfort. Optional interior finishes, including burgundy or western styles, were available during production. The machine is equipped with hydraulic wet disc brakes and power steering for improved maneuverability.

Conclusion

The International Harvester 5488 serves as a high-capacity tractor suitable for demanding fieldwork, including heavy tillage and large-implement operation. Its combination of a high-torque 466-cubic-inch engine and a flexible semi-powershift transmission makes it a durable choice for professional agricultural environments.

Production Information of International Harvester, 5488

  • Row-Crop tractor
  • Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
ManufacturerInternational Harvester
Original price$66,615 (1985 2WD )
Total built3,951
Total built(optional)$78,340 (1985 4WD )

Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, 5488

Front tread62 to 86 inches [157 to 218 cm]
Wheelbase111.6 inches [283 cm]
Ground clearance18.3 inches [46 cm]
Height116 inches [294 cm]
Length196.6 inches [499 cm]
Bar rear axle4.00 by 114 inches [101 by 2895 mm]
Width114 inches [289 cm]
Ag front14L-16.1
Ag rear20.8-38

Engine Specifications of International Harvester, 5488

  • International Harvester DTI-466B
  • Liquid-cooled inline
  • Intercooled turbocharged diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Coolant capacity33 qts [31.2 L]
Displacement466 ci [7.6 L]
Idle RPM800-2660
Bore/Stroke4.30x5.35 inches [109 x 136 mm]
Oil capacity20 qts [18.9 L]
Starter volts12
Rated RPM2400

Transmission Information of International Harvester, 5488

Transmission variants 1

  • Left lever selects gear, right lever selects high, medium, low, or reverse range. Clutch-free on-the-move powershifting in gear pairs 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6. Synchronized on-the-move shifting (with the clutch) between pairs.
TransmissionSynchro Tri-Six (STS)
Oil capacity174 qts [164.7 L]
TypePartial power shift
Gears18 forward and 6 reverse

Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, 5488

  • Two- or four-wheel drive
  • Hydraulic wet disc brakes
  • Power steering
  • Cab standard with heat and air-conditioning. Optional burgundy or western interior finish.
Final drivesPlanetary
Differential lockMechanical rear

Power Information of International Harvester, 5488

Rear PTOIndependent
Rear PTO Type1000

Hydraulics Specifications of International Harvester, 5488

TypeClosed center
Type(optional)40 gpm [151.4 lpm]
Pump flow25 gpm [94.6 lpm]
Capacity43.5 gal [164.6 L]
Steering flow12 gpm [45.4 lpm]
Total flow67 gpm [253.6 lpm]
Valves2

Three-Point Hitch of International Harvester, 5488

Rear TypeIII
Rear lift8076 lbs [3663 kg]

Electrical System of International Harvester, 5488

GroundNegative
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 205 hp[P] HP, the International Harvester 5488 sits just above 5288 (177 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 89th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the International Harvester 5488 have?

The International Harvester 5488 delivers 205 hp[P] HP.

What years was the International Harvester 5488 produced?

The International Harvester 5488 was produced in 1981-1985.

What engine does the International Harvester 5488 have?

The International Harvester 5488 is powered by a Intercooled turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the International Harvester 5488 use?

The International Harvester 5488 uses a Synchro Tri-Six (STS) transmission.

Is the International Harvester 5488 4WD?

The International Harvester 5488 is available in 2WD/4WD.

Compare the International Harvester 5488 with another model