Introduction
International Harvester 656 Utility Tractor
The International Harvester 656 is a utility tractor produced between 1965 and 1973. It was designed to bridge the gap in the International Harvester lineup, positioned between models such as the 606 and the 756, offering a balance of power and maneuverability for mid-sized agricultural operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the International Harvester C-263, a 4.3-liter, 6-cylinder liquid-cooled engine. It features a compression ratio of 8.8:1 and is configured to run on LP gas. The engine is rated at 1800 RPM in early models and 2300 RPM in later versions, delivering a power output of 70 hp.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 656 offers high operational flexibility through three distinct transmission options: a 5-speed sliding gear transmission, a 10-speed Torque Amplifier (two-speed power shift) transmission, or an infinite-range hydrostatic transmission. It is a two-wheel drive machine equipped with power steering and disc brakes to facilitate handling.
Hydraulics and Hitch
The hydraulic system utilizes an open-center design with a pump flow of 12 gallons per minute (45.4 liters per minute) and supports up to two valves. The rear hitch is a Category II system featuring lower-link draft sensing, which allows for precise implement depth control during cultivation tasks.
Dimensions and Capacity
The tractor features a wheelbase of 80 inches (203 cm) and an overall length of 152 inches (386 cm). The shipping weight is approximately 5,800 lbs (2,630 kg) for the gasoline-based models. It is equipped with a 540/1000 RPM independent rear PTO, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of standardized farm implements.
Conclusion
The International Harvester 656 is a versatile utility tractor suitable for general field work and hauling. Its variety of transmission configurations and standard draft-sensing hydraulics made it a flexible choice for farmers requiring a reliable, mid-range machine during its production era.
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Production Information of International Harvester, 656
- Utility tractor
- Original price was $7,400 in 1973
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, 656
| Diesel Shipping weight | 6100 lbs [2766 kg] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 80 inches [203 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 56 inches [142 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 62 inches [157 cm] |
| Length | 152 inches [386 cm] |
| Clearance (front axle) | 19 inches [48 cm] |
| Gas Shipping weight | 5800 lbs [2630 kg] |
| Width | 74 inches [187 cm] |
| Rear tread | 54 to 78 inches [137 to 198 cm] |
| Front tread | 54 to 84 inches [137 to 213 cm] |
| Ag front | 7.50-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 15.5-38 (Hi-Clear) |
| Ag rear | 16.9-38 |
| Ag front | 6.00-16 (Hi-Clear) |
Engine Specifications of International Harvester, 656
- International Harvester C-263
- Liquid-cooled
- LP gas
- 6-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 9 qts [8.5 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 263 ci [4.3 L] |
| Compression | 8.8:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.5625x4.39 inches [90 x 112 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 21 qts [19.9 L] |
| Coolant capacity(optional) | 2300 (late) |
| Rated RPM | 1800 (early) |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
Transmission Information of International Harvester, 656
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Sliding gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 279.4mm cerametallic disc |
Transmission variants 2
| Transmission | Torque Amplifier |
|---|---|
| Type | Two-speed power shift |
| Gears | 10 forward and 2 reverse |
Transmission variants 3
| Type | Hydrostatic |
|---|---|
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse (2-range) |
- 5-speed sliding gear
- 10-speed two-speed power shift
- Hydrostatic
Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, 656
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Power steering
- Disc brakes
Power Information of International Harvester, 656
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540/1000 |
Hydraulics Specifications of International Harvester, 656
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Valves | 0 to 2 |
| Pump flow | 12 gpm [45.4 lpm] |
Three-Point Hitch of International Harvester, 656
| Rear Type | II |
|---|---|
| Control | Lower-link draft sensing |
Electrical System of International Harvester, 656
| Charging system | Alternator |
|---|---|
| Charging amps | 55 |
Where it sits
With 70 hp[P] HP, the International Harvester 656 sits between 606 (55 HP) and 666 (75 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 72th percentile of 1960s models in our database (709 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the International Harvester 656 have?
The International Harvester 656 delivers 70 hp[P] HP.
What years was the International Harvester 656 produced?
The International Harvester 656 was produced in 1965-1973.
What engine does the International Harvester 656 have?
The International Harvester 656 is powered by a LP gas, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the International Harvester 656 use?
The International Harvester 656 uses a Sliding gear transmission.
How much does the International Harvester 656 weigh?
The International Harvester 656 weighs 6100 lbs [2766 kg].
Is the International Harvester 656 4WD?
The International Harvester 656 is available in 2WD.