International Harvester 986
Power
116 hp[P] hp
Production
1976-1981
Engine
6-cylinder
Transmission
Torque Amplifier
Drive
2WD/4WD
From the same series:
Introduction
International Harvester 986 Row-Crop Tractor
The International Harvester 986 is a row-crop tractor produced between 1976 and 1981 in Rock Island, Illinois. Part of the 86 series, this model was designed to serve as a high-capacity machine for heavy-duty agricultural operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 7.1-liter (436 ci) six-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It operates at a rated speed of 2400 RPM. The engine cooling system has a capacity of 26 quarts (24.6 liters), and the lubrication system requires 14 quarts (13.2 liters) of oil. A dual dry element air cleaner is utilized to maintain engine efficiency in field conditions.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The transmission provides 16 forward and 8 reverse speeds, organized into three ranges. It incorporates a Torque Amplifier (TA) which functions as a two-speed power shift, allowing for on-the-go adjustments. While range and gear selection must be performed while the tractor is stationary, the TA enables speed modulation during operation.
Hydraulics and Hitch
The hydraulic system features an open-center design with a total capacity of 22.5 gallons (85.2 liters) and includes two valves. A closed-center system was also offered as an optional upgrade after 1980. The rear Category II hitch provides a lift capacity of 5,760 lbs (2,612 kg) at 24 inches behind the lift point.
Operator Environment and Mechanical Features
The tractor is equipped with power-assisted steering and hydraulic disc brakes for operational control. Standard configuration includes an air-conditioned cab, though open operator stations with a four-post ROPS structure were also available. The machine is configured for both two-wheel and four-wheel drive applications.
Conclusion
With 116 horsepower and a robust chassis, the International Harvester 986 remains a capable utility tractor for row-crop farming, balancing hydraulic flexibility and operator comfort for mid-to-large scale agricultural tasks.
Videos
Production Information of International Harvester, 986
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Original price | $31,100 (1981) |
| Total built | 20,554 |
Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, 986
| Ground clearance | 13 inches [33 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 105 inches (wide-front) [266 cm] |
| Length | 167 inches (2WD) [424 cm] |
| Length(optional) | 106 inches (Hi-Clear) [269 cm] |
| Length(optional) | 101 inches (tricycle) [256 cm] |
| Width | 102 inches [259 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 163 inches (4WD) [414 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 99 inches (4WD) [251 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 26 inches (Hi-Clear) [66 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 125 inches (Hi-Clear) [317 cm] |
| Height (cab) | 112 inches [284 cm] |
| Height (cab)(optional) | 169 inches (Hi-Clear) [429 cm] |
| Ag front | 10.00-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 18.4-38 |
Engine Specifications of International Harvester, 986
- Liquid-cooled
- 6-cylinder
| Air cleaner | Dual dry element |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 436 ci [7.1 L] |
| Oil capacity | 14 qts [13.2 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2400 |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.30x5.00 inches [109 x 127 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 26 qts [24.6 L] |
Transmission Information of International Harvester, 986
Transmission variants 1
- The transmission features three ranges (low, high, and reverse) with four gears (1-4) in each range. The Torque Amplifier (TA) provides an additional high/low selection for each speed. The range and gear can be shifted only when the tractor is stopped. The TA can be shifted while the tractor is in motion.
| Transmission | Torque Amplifier |
|---|---|
| Oil type | IH Hy-Tran/B-6 |
| Oil capacity | 90 qts [85.2 L] |
| Type | Two-speed power shift |
| Type(optional) | IH Hy-Tran/B-6 |
| Gears | 16 forward and 8 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, 986
- Two- or four-wheel drive
- Cab standard with air-conditioning. Open operator station and four-post ROPS available.
- Hydraulic disc brakes
| Final drives | Bull gear |
|---|---|
| Steering | Power assist |
Power Information of International Harvester, 986
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | 1000@2100 |
| Rear PTO Type | 540/1000 (1.375) |
| Engine RPM | 540@2100 |
Hydraulics Specifications of International Harvester, 986
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Valves | 2 |
| Valves(optional) | Closed center |
| Capacity | 22.5 gal [85.2 L] |
Optional after late 1980.
Three-Point Hitch of International Harvester, 986
| Rear Type | II |
|---|---|
| Rear lift (at 24"/610mm) | 5760 lbs [2612 kg] |
Electrical System of International Harvester, 986
| Battery volts | 12 |
|---|---|
| Ground | Negative |
| Batteries | 2 |
| Batteries(optional) | 61 (with cab) |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Battery CCA | 470 |
| Charging amps | 42 |
Where it sits
With 116 hp[P] HP, the International Harvester 986 sits between Hydro 186 (115 HP) and 3688 (125 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 74th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the International Harvester 986 have?
The International Harvester 986 delivers 116 hp[P] HP.
What years was the International Harvester 986 produced?
The International Harvester 986 was produced in 1976-1981.
What engine does the International Harvester 986 have?
The International Harvester 986 is powered by a 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the International Harvester 986 use?
The International Harvester 986 uses a Torque Amplifier transmission.
Is the International Harvester 986 4WD?
The International Harvester 986 is available in 2WD/4WD.