International Harvester 856
Power
111 hp[P] hp
Production
1967-1971
Engine
LP gas, 6-cylinder
Transmission
International Harvester sliding gear
Weight
10,290 lbs (diesel) [4667 kg]
Drive
2WD/4WD
From the same series:
Introduction
International Harvester 856: A Heavy-Duty Agricultural Tractor
The International Harvester 856 is a robust agricultural tractor produced between 1967 and 1971 in Rock Island, Illinois. Designed for demanding field operations, this model serves as a core representative of the International Harvester series, balancing mechanical durability with operational flexibility.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the liquid-cooled International Harvester C-301, a 6-cylinder engine with a displacement of 4.9 liters. It features a compression ratio of 8.8:1 and operates at a rated speed of 2400 RPM. The engine is protected by a dual dry element air cleaner, ensuring longevity in dusty agricultural environments. With a power output of 111 horsepower, the engine provides sufficient torque for heavy traction tasks.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Operators can choose between two transmission configurations. The standard sliding gear transmission offers 8 forward and 4 reverse gears. Alternatively, the optional Torque Amplifier (TA) provides a two-speed power shift mechanism, allowing for shifting between direct-drive and lower speeds in each gear, resulting in a total of 16 forward and 8 reverse gears. The tractor is available in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations.
Hydraulics and Hitch
The 856 is equipped with an open-center hydraulic system capable of a pump flow of 12 gallons per minute (45.4 liters per minute). It features an independent rear Power Take-Off (PTO) with selectable speeds of 540 or 1000 RPM. The rear hitch is a Category II system, designed to accommodate a wide range of standard implements.
Dimensions and Handling
With an operating weight of 10,290 lbs (approximately 4667 kg) and a ballasted weight reaching 12,035 lbs (5459 kg), the tractor is engineered for high stability. Handling is managed via power steering and differential hydraulic dry disc brakes. The machine typically utilizes 10.00-16 front tires and 18.4-38 rear tires to optimize field traction.
Conclusion
The International Harvester 856 is a reliable, mechanical-focused tractor suited for mid-to-large scale farming operations. Its combination of a high-torque 6-cylinder engine and the versatile Torque Amplifier transmission makes it a durable workhorse for plowing, hauling, and implement management.
Production Information of International Harvester, 856
- Original price was $9,640 in 1971
- Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | 4 (gasoline) |
| Total built | 2,113 (diesel) |
Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, 856
| Operating weight | 10,290 lbs (diesel) [4667 kg] |
|---|---|
| Ballasted weight | 12,035 lbs [5459 kg] |
| Ag front | 10.00-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 18.4-38 |
Engine Specifications of International Harvester, 856
- International Harvester C-301
- Liquid-cooled
- LP gas
- 6-cylinder
| Coolant capacity | 21.5 qts [20.3 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 301 ci [4.9 L] |
| Compression | 8.8:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.8125x4.39 inches [97 x 112 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 24 qts [22.7 L] |
| Oil capacity | 9 qts [8.5 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2400 |
| Air cleaner | Dual dry elements |
Transmission Information of International Harvester, 856
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | International Harvester sliding gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 8 forward and 4 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
- Four gears with high and low ranges. Torque Amplifier (TA) provides a power shift between direct-drive (DD) and lower TA speed in each gear.
| Transmission | Torque Amplifier |
|---|---|
| Type | Two-speed power shift |
| Gears | 16 forward and 8 reverse |
- 8-speed
- 16-speed two-speed power shift
Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, 856
- Two- or four-wheel drive
- Open operator station. Cab optional.
- Differential hydraulic dry disc brakes
| Steering | Power |
|---|
Power Information of International Harvester, 856
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540/1000 |
Hydraulics Specifications of International Harvester, 856
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Pump flow | 12 gpm [45.4 lpm] |
Three-Point Hitch of International Harvester, 856
| Rear Type | II |
|---|
Where it sits
With 111 hp[P] HP, the International Harvester 856 sits between 806 (105 HP) and 1256 (125 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 88th percentile of 1960s models in our database (709 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the International Harvester 856 have?
The International Harvester 856 delivers 111 hp[P] HP.
What years was the International Harvester 856 produced?
The International Harvester 856 was produced in 1967-1971.
What engine does the International Harvester 856 have?
The International Harvester 856 is powered by a LP gas, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the International Harvester 856 use?
The International Harvester 856 uses a International Harvester sliding gear transmission.
How much does the International Harvester 856 weigh?
The International Harvester 856 weighs 10,290 lbs (diesel) [4667 kg].
Is the International Harvester 856 4WD?
The International Harvester 856 is available in 2WD/4WD.