Introduction
J.I. Case 311 Row-Crop Tractor
The J.I. Case 311 is a row-crop tractor produced between 1956 and 1958 at the Rock Island, Illinois, manufacturing facility. Designed for general agricultural tasks, this 32-horsepower machine represents the mid-century engineering approach of the J.I. Case company.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine capable of running on LP Gas. With a displacement of 148 cubic inches (2.4 liters) and a rated operating speed of 1750 RPM, the powerplant delivers 32 horsepower. It features an oil bath air cleaner and an electrical system utilizing a 6-volt battery with a positive ground.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 311 offers two main transmission configurations. The standard model features a 4-speed sliding gear transmission. Alternatively, the Tripl-Range transmission provides 12 forward and 3 reverse speeds by utilizing three ranges (low, direct, high) combined with four gears. The unit employs a dry disc clutch, with the Tripl-Range option incorporating a wet disc traction hand clutch.
Hydraulics and Hitch
Equipped with the Case Eagle Hitch system, the tractor is designed for efficient implement attachment. The hydraulic system utilizes the Duo-Control type, which allows for precise implement operation, and supports one optional valve for auxiliary hydraulic functions.
Dimensions and Mechanical Specs
The tractor is a two-wheel-drive machine with an operating weight of 3,561 lbs (1,615 kg), which can be increased to 5,995 lbs (2,719 kg) with ballast. It features 6-inch disc brakes and manual steering. The front end was available in both wide-front and tricycle configurations, with adjustable tread widths to accommodate various row-cropping requirements.
Conclusion
With 8,465 units built, the J.I. Case 311 remains a recognizable example of 1950s row-crop machinery. Its combination of multiple transmission options and the standard Case Eagle Hitch made it a versatile choice for farmers requiring a reliable, mid-sized tractor for standard field operations.
Production Information of J.I. Case, 311
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
| Manufacturer | J.I. Case |
|---|---|
| Original price | $2,500 (1958) |
| Total built | 8,465 |
Dimension and Tires Information of J.I. Case, 311
| Rear tread | 48 to 88 inches [121 to 223 cm] |
|---|---|
| Tricycle Wheelbase | 84.3 inches [214 cm] |
| Height | 61 inches [154 cm] |
| Wide-front Length | 125 inches [317 cm] |
| Wide front Wheelbase | 79.7 inches [202 cm] |
| Ground clearance | 21 inches [53 cm] |
| Operating weight | 3,561 lbs [1615 kg] |
| Tricycle Length | 131 inches [332 cm] |
| Front tread | 52 to 80 inches [132 to 203 cm (wide-front)] |
| Front tread | 6.4.11.7 to inches [16 to 0 cm (tricycle)] |
| Ballasted weight | 5,995 lbs [2719 kg] |
| Ag front | 5.50x16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 11x28 |
Engine Specifications of J.I. Case, 311
- Case
- Liquid-cooled
- LP Gas
- 4-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 4 qts [3.8 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 148 ci [2.4 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1750 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x4.125 inches [86 x 105 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 12 qts [11.4 L] |
| Starter volts | 6 |
| Rated RPM | 1750 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of J.I. Case, 311
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) |
Transmission variants 3
- 4-speed sliding gear
- 12-speed
Mechanical Specs of J.I. Case, 311
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- 6-inch disc brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Power Information of J.I. Case, 311
| Rear PTO | Transmission (4-speed) |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | Live (Tripl-Range) |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Hydraulics Specifications of J.I. Case, 311
| Type | Duo-Control |
|---|---|
| Valves | 1 (optional) |
Three-Point Hitch of J.I. Case, 311
| Type | Case Eagle Hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of J.I. Case, 311
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 40th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the J.I. Case 311 have?
The J.I. Case 311 delivers 32 hp[B] HP.
What years was the J.I. Case 311 produced?
The J.I. Case 311 was produced in 1956-1958.
What engine does the J.I. Case 311 have?
The J.I. Case 311 is powered by a LP Gas, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the J.I. Case 311 use?
The J.I. Case 311 uses a Sliding gear transmission.
How much does the J.I. Case 311 weigh?
The J.I. Case 311 weighs 3,561 lbs [1615 kg].
Is the J.I. Case 311 4WD?
The J.I. Case 311 is available in 2WD.