Introduction
International Harvester BTD-6 Crawler Tractor
The International Harvester BTD-6 is an agricultural crawler tractor produced between 1955 and 1975 at the Doncaster facility in England. Designed for heavy-duty field operations, this tracked machine was engineered to provide superior traction and stability compared to conventional wheeled tractors of the era.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is equipped with the International Harvester BD-264, a 4-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine. It features a 264 cubic-inch (4.3 L) displacement with a 4.00 x 5.25 inch bore and stroke. The engine generates a gross power output of 55 hp (41.0 kW) at 1600 rated RPM, with a peak torque of 210 lb-ft (284.8 Nm) achieved at 1100 RPM. This configuration provides the necessary low-end torque required for heavy pulling tasks.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power is transmitted via a 330mm dry disc clutch to a gear-driven transmission offering 5 forward gears and 1 reverse gear. The drivetrain utilizes bull gear final drives, a standard mechanical arrangement for crawler tractors of this period to manage high torque loads effectively. The machine utilizes 14-inch tracks to distribute its 9,100 lbs (4,127 kg) weight, ensuring effective ground pressure and traction.
Operator Environment and Systems
The BTD-6 features an open operator station designed for direct visibility of the work area. Electrical systems are supported by a generator-based charging system and a 12-volt electric starter. Fluid capacities are designed for extended operation, including 45.4 quarts (43.0 L) for the cooling system and 9.6 quarts (9.1 L) for the engine oil.
Conclusion
With a total of 18,632 units built, the International Harvester BTD-6 established itself as a reliable utility machine for agricultural applications requiring high drawbar pull and off-road mobility. Its robust mechanical construction and tracked design make it well-suited for demanding soil conditions and heavy-duty traction work.
Production Information of International Harvester, BTD-6
- Original price was AUP 3,215 in 1964
- Agricultural Crawler tractor
- Built in Doncaster, England
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Total built | 18632 |
Engine Specifications of International Harvester, BTD-6
- International Harvester BD-264
- Liquid-cooled
- Diesel
- 4-cylinder
| Coolant capacity | 45.4 qts [43.0 L] |
|---|---|
| Power (gross) | 55 hp [41.0 kW] |
| Rated RPM | 1600 |
| Torque RPM | 1100 |
| Torque | 210 lb-ft [284.8 Nm] |
| Displacement | 264 ci [4.3 L] |
| Power (net) | 50.5 hp [37.7 kW] |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.00x5.25 inches [102 x 133 mm] |
| Oil capacity | 9.6 qts [9.1 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Starter | Electric |
Transmission Information of International Harvester, BTD-6
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 19.2 qts [18.2 L] |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 330mm dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, BTD-6
- Open operator station
| Drive | Crawler |
|---|---|
| Final drives | Bull gear |
Power Information of International Harvester, BTD-6
| Engine (gross) | 55 hp [41.0 kW] |
|---|---|
| Belt (claimed) | 47.9 hp [35.7 kW] |
| Engine (net) | 50.5 hp [37.7 kW] |
| Drawbar (claimed) | 40.6 hp [30.3 kW] |
Electrical System of International Harvester, BTD-6
| Charging system | Generator |
|---|
Where it sits
With 55 HP, the International Harvester BTD-6 sits between W-400 (53 HP) and 544 (57 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 81th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the International Harvester BTD-6 have?
The International Harvester BTD-6 delivers 55 HP.
What years was the International Harvester BTD-6 produced?
The International Harvester BTD-6 was produced in 1955-1975.
What engine does the International Harvester BTD-6 have?
The International Harvester BTD-6 is powered by a Diesel, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the International Harvester BTD-6 use?
The International Harvester BTD-6 uses a Gear transmission.