International Harvester 6588 tractor

International Harvester 6588

Power

177 hp

Production

1981-1984

Engine

Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Two-range power shift

Weight

16320 lbs [7402 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

6388
6788

Introduction

International Harvester 6588 Tractor

Produced between 1981 and 1984, the International Harvester 6588 is a heavy-duty, articulated four-wheel-drive tractor. Belonging to the 60 series line, this model was designed to provide high-horsepower performance for large-scale agricultural operations.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 7.6-liter (466 cubic inch) turbocharged diesel engine. This six-cylinder, liquid-cooled unit produces 177 horsepower at a rated engine speed of 2400 RPM. It features a bore and stroke of 109 x 136 mm, engineered to sustain long periods of high-load field work.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The 6588 utilizes a two-range power shift transmission providing 16 forward and 8 reverse gears. The system allows for clutchless shifting between gear pairs 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8, while shifts between 2-to-3, 4-to-5, and 6-to-7 require the use of the clutch. The drivetrain is configured for permanent four-wheel drive, utilizing an articulated hydrostatic steering system to manage its 7,402 kg shipping weight.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The hydraulic system is a closed-center design with a pump flow capacity of 68.1 liters per minute (18 gpm) and a separate steering flow of 45.4 liters per minute (12 gpm). It supports between two and four hydraulic valves for implement control. The rear hitch is a category III/II type, complemented by an independent rear PTO operating at 1000 RPM.

Operator Environment

Standard equipment includes a climate-controlled cab featuring heating and air conditioning. The interior is finished in a burgundy style, with an optional 'Wester' interior finish available. The tractor's dimensions include a wheelbase of 279 cm and a ground clearance of 72 cm, providing stability for heavy-duty traction tasks.

Conclusion

With 642 units manufactured, the International Harvester 6588 remains a notable example of early 1980s articulated tractor technology. It is suited for demanding primary tillage and heavy pulling applications where high horsepower and four-wheel drive traction are required.

Production Information of International Harvester, 6588

  • Original price was $65,100 in 1984
ManufacturerInternational Harvester
Total built642

Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, 6588

Wheelbase110 inches [279 cm]
Ground clearance28.4 inches [72 cm]
Shipping weight16320 lbs [7402 kg]
Length228.3 inches [579 cm]
Width101.61 inches [258 cm]
Ag front18.4-38
Ag rear18.4-38

Engine Specifications of International Harvester, 6588

  • Liquid-cooled
  • Turbocharged diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Coolant capacity34 qts [32.2 L]
Displacement466 ci [7.6 L]
Rated RPM2400
Bore/Stroke4.30x5.35 inches [109 x 136 mm]
Oil capacity20 qts [18.9 L]
Starter volts12
Power177 hp [132.0 kW]

Transmission Information of International Harvester, 6588

Transmission variants 1

  • Left lever selects high, low, or reverse range. Right lever selects gear. On-the-move powershift without the clutch between gear pairs 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8. Synchronized shift (with the clutch) from 2-to-3, 4-to-5, and 6-to-7.
TypeTwo-range power shift
Gears16 forward and 8 reverse
Oil capacity94.5 qts [89.4 L]

Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, 6588

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Cab standard with burgundy finish, heat, and A/C. Optional wester finish interior.
SteeringArticulated hydrostatic power

Power Information of International Harvester, 6588

Rear PTOIndependent
Rear PTO Type1000

Hydraulics Specifications of International Harvester, 6588

TypeClosed center
Steering flow12 gpm [45.4 lpm]
Pump flow18 gpm [68.1 lpm]
Capacity23.6 gal [89.3 L]
Valves2 to 4

Three-Point Hitch of International Harvester, 6588

Rear TypeIII/II

Electrical System of International Harvester, 6588

GroundNegative
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 177 HP, the International Harvester 6588 sits between 3588 (167 HP) and 6788 (200 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 86th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the International Harvester 6588 have?

The International Harvester 6588 delivers 177 HP.

What years was the International Harvester 6588 produced?

The International Harvester 6588 was produced in 1981-1984.

What engine does the International Harvester 6588 have?

The International Harvester 6588 is powered by a Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the International Harvester 6588 use?

The International Harvester 6588 uses a Two-range power shift transmission.

How much does the International Harvester 6588 weigh?

The International Harvester 6588 weighs 16320 lbs [7402 kg].

Is the International Harvester 6588 4WD?

The International Harvester 6588 is available in 4WD.

Compare the International Harvester 6588 with another model