International Harvester 7488 tractor

International Harvester 7488

Power

235 hp

Production

1985

Engine

Intercooled turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Tri-Six

Weight

20175 lbs [9151 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

7288

Introduction

International Harvester 7488 Four-Wheel Drive Tractor

The International Harvester 7488 is a heavy-duty four-wheel drive tractor produced in 1985 in Rock Island, Illinois. As part of the 7288 series, this machine was engineered for demanding agricultural applications, combining high-horsepower performance with specialized transmission systems.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by the International Harvester DTI-466C, a 7.6-liter, 6-cylinder liquid-cooled turbocharged diesel engine with intercooling. It delivers 235 horsepower at a rated engine speed of 2400 RPM. The engine features a dual-stage dry air cleaner and utilizes ether injection for cold-start pre-heating, ensuring reliable operation under various environmental conditions.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The vehicle utilizes the Synchro Tri-Six transmission, which provides 18 forward and 6 reverse gears. It operates as a partial power shift system, allowing operators to shift between gear pairs (1/2, 3/4, 5/6) using a hydraulic wet disc clutch, while the high, medium, and low ranges define the primary working speeds. The drivetrain includes articulated power steering and a hydraulic differential lock to maintain traction across uneven terrain.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The hydraulic system is of the closed-center type, providing a total flow capacity of 86 gpm (325.5 lpm), with a dedicated 12 gpm flow for steering. It supports 2 to 4 rear valves for implement control. The rear hitch is a Category III/II system featuring both position and draft control, capable of lifting up to 9,890 lbs (4,486 kg). An independent rear PTO rated at 1000 RPM is included as standard equipment.

Dimensions and Operator Environment

With a wheelbase of 115.5 inches (293 cm) and an overall length of 239.1 inches (607 cm), the 7488 provides a stable platform for heavy draft work. The tractor includes an air-conditioned cabin as standard, designed to improve operator comfort during extended field operations. It rides on 20.8-38 tires for both front and rear axles.

Conclusion

With only 16 units produced, the International Harvester 7488 remains a specialized, high-capacity machine. Its combination of a powerful 235-hp engine, robust hydraulic capacity, and articulated 4WD configuration makes it well-suited for large-scale primary tillage and intensive heavy-duty traction tasks.

Production Information of International Harvester, 7488

  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
ManufacturerInternational Harvester
Total built16

Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, 7488

Clearance (drawbar)17.5 inches [44 cm]
Wheelbase115.5 inches [293 cm]
Shipping weight20175 lbs [9151 kg]
Height (exhaust)128.9 inches [327 cm]
Length239.1 inches [607 cm]
Front axleBar: 4 inch diameter [101 mm]
Clearance (front axle)20.5 inches [52 cm]
Width114 inches [289 cm]
Bar rear axle4 inch diameter [101 mm]
Ag front20.8-38
Ag rear20.8-38

Engine Specifications of International Harvester, 7488

  • International Harvester DTI-466C
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Intercooled turbocharged diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Coolant capacity36 qts [34.1 L]
Air cleanerDual-stage dry
Pre-heatingEther injection
Idle RPM880-2640
Rated RPM2400
Displacement466 ci [7.6 L]
Power235 hp [175.2 kW]
Bore/Stroke4.30x5.35 inches [109 x 136 mm]
Oil capacity20 qts [18.9 L]
Starter volts12
StarterElectric

Transmission Information of International Harvester, 7488

Transmission variants 1

  • The Synchro Tri-Six provides six gears with high, medium, low, and reverse ranges. A power shift exists with gear pairs (1/2, 3/4, 5/6) then the clutch needed to shift between pairs.
TransmissionTri-Six
Oil capacity172 qts [162.8 L]
ClutchHydraulic wet disc
TypePartial power shift
Gears18 forward and 6 reverse

Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, 7488

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Cab standard with air-conditioning.
  • Hydraulic wet disc brakes
  • Articulated power steering
Differential lockHydraulic

Power Information of International Harvester, 7488

Rear PTOIndependent
Rear PTO Type1000

Hydraulics Specifications of International Harvester, 7488

TypeClosed center
Total flow86 gpm [325.5 lpm]
Pump flow28 gpm [106.0 lpm]
Capacity43 gal [162.8 L]
Steering flow12 gpm [45.4 lpm]
Rear valves2 to 4

Three-Point Hitch of International Harvester, 7488

Rear TypeIII/II
ControlPosition and draft control
Rear lift9890 lbs [4486 kg]

Electrical System of International Harvester, 7488

GroundNegative
Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 235 HP, the International Harvester 7488 sits just above 7288 (210 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 92th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the International Harvester 7488 have?

The International Harvester 7488 delivers 235 HP.

What years was the International Harvester 7488 produced?

The International Harvester 7488 was produced in 1985.

What engine does the International Harvester 7488 have?

The International Harvester 7488 is powered by a Intercooled turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the International Harvester 7488 use?

The International Harvester 7488 uses a Tri-Six transmission.

How much does the International Harvester 7488 weigh?

The International Harvester 7488 weighs 20175 lbs [9151 kg].

Is the International Harvester 7488 4WD?

The International Harvester 7488 is available in 4WD.

Compare the International Harvester 7488 with another model