Introduction
International Harvester BTD-8 Crawler Tractor
The International Harvester BTD-8 is a specialized agricultural crawler tractor manufactured in Doncaster, England, between 1960 and 1966. Designed for heavy-duty traction and field work, this machine is recognized for its robust mechanical construction and reliance on traditional gear-driven power delivery.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the International Harvester BD-281, a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel engine with a displacement of 4.6 liters. It produces a net power output of 60 hp (44.7 kW) at a rated speed of 1600 RPM. The engine delivers 220 lb-ft (298.3 Nm) of torque at 1100 RPM, providing the necessary lugging capability for agricultural implements. The system utilizes a 12-volt electric starter and requires 24.4 liters of coolant for thermal management.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The BTD-8 features a manual gear-type transmission, available in two primary configurations: a 5-speed forward/1-reverse setup or a 4-speed forward/2-reverse configuration, the latter offering an optional high-speed reverse. Power is transferred through a 330mm dry disc clutch. Final drive is achieved via bull gears, which are designed to handle high torque loads transmitted to the 14-inch tracks.
Chassis and Dimensions
Built as a crawler, the BTD-8 prioritizes stability and ground contact on uneven or soft terrain. It has a total operating weight of 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg). The operator environment is an open station design, typical of the era, which provides direct access to controls and high visibility for precision field operations.
Conclusion
With a total production run of 3,292 units, the International Harvester BTD-8 remains a notable example of mid-20th-century crawler engineering. Its design focuses on mechanical simplicity and pulling power, making it suitable for primary tillage and heavy draft tasks in agricultural settings.
Production Information of International Harvester, BTD-8
- Original price was AUP 3,920 in 1964
- Agricultural Crawler tractor
- Built in Doncaster, England
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Total built | 3292 |
Engine Specifications of International Harvester, BTD-8
- International Harvester BD-281
- Liquid-cooled
- 4-cylinder
- Diesel
| Rated RPM | 1600 |
|---|---|
| Starter | Electric |
| Displacement | 281 ci [4.6 L] |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.125x5.25 inches [105 x 133 mm] |
| Power (net) | 60 hp [44.7 kW] |
| Torque RPM | 1100 |
| Torque | 220 lb-ft [298.3 Nm] |
| Coolant capacity | 25.8 qts [24.4 L] |
| Oil capacity | 9.6 qts [9.1 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of International Harvester, BTD-8
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 19.2 qts [18.2 L] |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 330mm dry dsic |
Transmission variants 2
- Optional high-speed reverse transmission.
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 2 reverse |
- 5-speed gear
- 4-speed gear
Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, BTD-8
- Open operator station
| Drive | Crawler |
|---|---|
| Final drives | Bull gear |
Power Information of International Harvester, BTD-8
| Engine (net) | 60 hp [44.7 kW] |
|---|---|
| Drawbar (claimed) | 52.1 hp [38.9 kW] |
| Belt (claimed) | 56.5 hp [42.1 kW] |
Where it sits
With 60 HP, the International Harvester BTD-8 sits just below TD-8 (62 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 62th percentile of 1960s models in our database (709 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the International Harvester BTD-8 have?
The International Harvester BTD-8 delivers 60 HP.
What years was the International Harvester BTD-8 produced?
The International Harvester BTD-8 was produced in 1960-1966.
What engine does the International Harvester BTD-8 have?
The International Harvester BTD-8 is powered by a Diesel, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the International Harvester BTD-8 use?
The International Harvester BTD-8 uses a Gear transmission.