Introduction
International Harvester W-400 Agricultural Tractor
The International Harvester W-400 is a two-wheel-drive tractor produced between 1955 and 1956. Originally introduced as the International 400, it was renamed to align with the manufacturer's established "W" series nomenclature. Serving as a transition between the earlier Super W-6 and the later W-450, this model represents a specific period in the evolution of mid-century agricultural equipment.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled vertical I-head engine. With a displacement of 264 cubic inches (4.3 L) and a compression ratio of 8.33:1, the engine delivers 53 horsepower at a rated speed of 1450 RPM. It utilizes a 1-3-4-2 firing order and requires 25.6 liters of coolant for thermal management.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Two transmission configurations were available for the W-400. The standard option is a 5-speed sliding gear transmission providing 5 forward and 1 reverse speeds. The alternative is a 10-speed partial power shift transmission equipped with the International Harvester Torque Amplifier (TA). The TA system integrates a planetary gearset, allowing the operator to shift between direct-drive and an underdrive ratio without stopping, which enhances operational efficiency in varying field conditions.
Operational Controls and Hydraulics
The W-400 is equipped with hydraulic power steering to reduce operator fatigue during maneuvering. Braking is handled by mechanical disc brakes. The machine features an independent rear Power Take-Off (PTO) operating at 540 RPM, providing a consistent power source for towed or mounted implements regardless of the tractor's ground speed.
Dimensions and Configuration
Designed for field utility, the tractor measures 130 inches (330 cm) in length, 76 inches (193 cm) in width, and 93.5 inches (237 cm) in height. It is configured with an open operator station. The chassis utilizes 6.50-18 front agricultural tires and 15.00-30 rear agricultural tires to provide necessary traction for agricultural tasks.
Conclusion
The International Harvester W-400 remains a notable piece of mid-1950s agricultural machinery. With a total production of 2,070 units for the gas/LP variants, it offers a balance of mechanical simplicity and the added versatility of the Torque Amplifier system, making it a functional example of the era's tractor engineering for collectors and historical agricultural enthusiasts.
Production Information of International Harvester, W-400
- The International W-400 started as the International 400. In June of 1955 a decision was made to rename it the W-400, bringing the name closer to the "W" series McCormick tractors it replaced.
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Original price | $3,400 (1956) |
| Total built | 2,070 (gas/LP) |
| Total built(optional) | 1,118 (diesel) |
Dimension and Tires Information of International Harvester, W-400
| Length | 130 inches [330 cm] |
|---|---|
| Width | 76 inches [193 cm] |
| Height | 93.5 inches [237 cm] |
| Ag front | 6.50-18 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 15.00-30 |
Engine Specifications of International Harvester, W-400
- International Harvester
- Liquid-cooled vertical I-head
- LP gas
- 4-cylinder
| Coolant capacity | 27 qts [25.6 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 264 ci [4.3 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1450 |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.00x5.25 inches [102 x 133 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Firing order | 1-3-4-2 |
| Compression | 8.33:1 |
Transmission Information of International Harvester, W-400
Transmission variants 1
| Manufacturer | International Harvester |
|---|---|
| Type | Sliding gear |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
- The Torque Amplifier (TA) uses a planetary gearset to provide a shift between direct-drive (DD) and the TA underdrive.
| Transmission | International Harvester Torque Amplifier |
|---|---|
| Type | Partial power shift |
| Gears | 10 forward and 2 reverse |
- 5-speed sliding gear
- 10-speed partial power shift
Mechanical Specs of International Harvester, W-400
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Mechanical disc brakes
| Steering | Hydraulic power |
|---|
Power Information of International Harvester, W-400
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Where it sits
With 53 hp[P] HP, the International Harvester W-400 sits just above W-450 (45 HP) in International Harvester's range. Its power puts it in the 78th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the International Harvester W-400 have?
The International Harvester W-400 delivers 53 hp[P] HP.
What years was the International Harvester W-400 produced?
The International Harvester W-400 was produced in 1955-1956.
What engine does the International Harvester W-400 have?
The International Harvester W-400 is powered by a LP gas, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the International Harvester W-400 use?
The International Harvester W-400 uses a Sliding gear transmission.
Is the International Harvester W-400 4WD?
The International Harvester W-400 is available in 2WD.