Introduction
J.I. Case 302: High-Clearance Agricultural Tractor
The J.I. Case 302 is a high-clearance tractor produced between 1956 and 1958 in Rock Island, Illinois, USA. Designed for agricultural versatility, this two-wheel-drive model was engineered to handle various field operations during the mid-20th century.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 157 cubic inch (2.6 L) 4-cylinder diesel engine. It features a liquid-cooling system, an oil bath air cleaner, and an ether pre-heating system for cold-start assistance. The engine operates at a rated speed of 1750 RPM with a compression ratio of 15.5:1. It delivers a claimed 22 hp (16.4 kW) at the drawbar and 27 hp (20.1 kW) at the belt, making it capable of pulling a 3-bottom plow.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 302 offers flexible shifting options. The standard configuration is a 4-speed sliding gear transmission with 4 forward and 1 reverse gear, utilizing a 234.9 mm dry disc clutch. An optional 'Tripl-Range' transmission increases versatility to 12 forward and 3 reverse speeds, providing four gears across three ranges (low, direct, high), supplemented by a traction hand clutch and a master foot clutch.
Mechanical and Operator Station
Built as a two-wheel-drive machine, the tractor utilizes manual steering for operator control. Braking is provided by 6-inch disc brakes. The operator station is of an open design, focusing on simplicity and visibility. The total weight of the unit is 4,100 lbs (1,859 kg), ensuring stability during field operations.
Conclusion
With only seven units built, the J.I. Case 302 represents a specialized high-clearance configuration within the 302-B series. Its combination of a 12-speed transmission option and reliable diesel power made it a capable tool for row-crop and general agricultural tasks of its era.
Production Information of J.I. Case, 302
- High-Clearance tractor
- Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
| Manufacturer | J.I. Case |
|---|---|
| Original price | $3,600 (1958) |
| Total built | 7 |
Dimension and Tires Information of J.I. Case, 302
| Weight | 4,100 lbs [1859 kg] |
|---|
Engine Specifications of J.I. Case, 302
- Liquid-cooled
- Diesel
- 4-cylinder
| Starter volts | 12 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 157 ci [2.6 L] |
| Pre-heating | Ether |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x4.375 inches [86 x 111 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 12 qts [11.4 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1750 |
| Compression | 15.5:1 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of J.I. Case, 302
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Sliding gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 234.9mm dry disc |
Transmission variants 2
- Four gears (1-4) plus reverse (R) in three ranges (low, direct, high).
| Transmission | Tripl-Range |
|---|---|
| Transmission(optional) | Wet discs (traction hand clutch) |
| Gears | 12 forward and 3 reverse |
| Clutch | 234.9mm dry disc (master foot clutch) |
- 4-speed sliding gear
- 12-speed
Mechanical Specs of J.I. Case, 302
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- 6-inch disc brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Power Information of J.I. Case, 302
| Drawbar (claimed) | 22 hp [16.4 kW] |
|---|---|
| Belt (claimed) | 27 hp [20.1 kW] |
| Plows | 3 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 36th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the J.I. Case 302 have?
The J.I. Case 302 delivers 30 hp[B] HP.
What years was the J.I. Case 302 produced?
The J.I. Case 302 was produced in 1956-1958.
What engine does the J.I. Case 302 have?
The J.I. Case 302 is powered by a Diesel, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the J.I. Case 302 use?
The J.I. Case 302 uses a Sliding gear transmission.
How much does the J.I. Case 302 weigh?
The J.I. Case 302 weighs 4,100 lbs [1859 kg].
Is the J.I. Case 302 4WD?
The J.I. Case 302 is available in 2WD.