Introduction
J.I. Case 311-B Row-Crop Tractor
Produced between 1958 and 1959 in Rock Island, Illinois, the J.I. Case 311-B is a row-crop tractor designed for mid-range agricultural operations. This two-wheel-drive machine reflects the engineering standards of the late 1950s, focusing on mechanical durability and versatility for field work.
Engine and Performance
The 311-B is powered by a Champion D-16 liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 148 cubic inches (2.4 liters). It features a 7.1:1 compression ratio and utilizes a carburetor-based fuel system. Rated at 1900 RPM, the engine delivers approximately 41 horsepower. Maintenance requirements include a 5-quart oil capacity with recommended changes every 100 hours of operation.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The tractor offers flexible gearing options to suit various tasks. Operators could choose between a standard 4-speed gear transmission or the Tripl-Range transmission, which provides 12 forward and 3 reverse speeds. Both configurations utilize a 235mm dry disc clutch for engagement, and the drivetrain is supported by differential mechanical dry disc brakes.
Hydraulics and PTO
The hydraulic system is of the open-center type, operating at a pressure of 1200 psi with a total fluid capacity of 3 gallons (11.4 liters). It is equipped with the proprietary Eagle Hitch for implement attachment. The tractor provides a continuous rear power take-off (PTO) rated at 540 RPM, standardizing the operation of towed or mounted agricultural implements.
Dimensions and Handling
With a wheelbase of 84.5 inches (214 cm) and a total weight of 4,076 lbs (1,848 kg), the 311-B offers a stable footprint for row-crop applications. The manual steering system and open operator station prioritize direct feedback and visibility. Rear tread width is adjustable from 48 to 88 inches, allowing the tractor to accommodate various crop spacing requirements.
Conclusion
The J.I. Case 311-B is a representative model of its era, offering a balance of power and mechanical simplicity. Its adjustable tread widths and varied transmission options make it a suitable candidate for traditional row-crop farming and light-to-medium duty agricultural tasks.
Production Information of J.I. Case, 311-B
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
| Manufacturer | J.I. Case |
|---|---|
| Total built | 2,339 |
Dimension and Tires Information of J.I. Case, 311-B
| Front tread | 48 to 72 inches [121 to 182 cm (GP)] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 84.5 inches (tricycle) [214 cm] |
| Width | 79.625 inches [202 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 127.375 inches (GP) [323 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 79.5 inches (GP) [201 cm] |
| Clearance (rear axle) | 21.5 inches [54 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 61 inches [154 cm] |
| Length | 130 inches (tricycle) [330 cm] |
| Rear tread | 48 to 88 inches [121 to 223 cm] |
| Front tread | 44 to 64 inches [111 to 162 cm (GP)] |
| Front tread | 52 to 80 inches [132 to 203 cm (GP)] |
| Front tread | 5.5/11.5 inches [13/29 cm (tricycle)] |
| Weight | 4076 lbs [1848 kg] |
| Ag front | 5.50-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag front(optional) | 12-28 |
| Ag rear | 11-28 |
| Ag rear | 10-28 |
Engine Specifications of J.I. Case, 311-B
- Liquid-cooled
| Sparkplug | Champion D-16 |
|---|---|
| Coolant capacity | 13 qts [12.3 L] |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
| Rated RPM | 1900 |
| Idle RPM | 500-2050 |
| Compression | 7.1:1 |
| Displacement | 148 ci [2.4 L] |
| Fuel system | Carburetor |
| Oil capacity | 5 qts [4.7 L] |
| Oil change | 100 h |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x4.125 inches [86 x 105 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.014 inches (cold) [0.356 mm] |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.014 inches (cold) [0.356 mm] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Firing order | 1-3-4-2 |
Transmission Information of J.I. Case, 311-B
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 28 qts [26.5 L] |
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 235mm dry disc |
Transmission variants 2
- Four gears, plus reverse, in three ranges.
| Transmission | Tripl-Range |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 28 qts [26.5 L] |
| Type | Gear |
| Gears | 12 forward and 3 reverse |
Transmission variants 3
| 6 | Brakes |
|---|---|
| 4 | Gear shift |
| 3 | Throttle |
| 1 | Foot clutch |
| 5 | Range shift |
| 2 | Hand clutch |
- 4-speed gear
- 12-speed gear
Mechanical Specs of J.I. Case, 311-B
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Differential mechanical dry disc brakes
Power Information of J.I. Case, 311-B
| Rear PTO | Continuous |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
| Engine RPM | 540 (1.375) |
Hydraulics Specifications of J.I. Case, 311-B
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3 gal [11.4 L] |
| Pressure | 1200 psi [82.7 bar] |
Three-Point Hitch of J.I. Case, 311-B
| Type | Eagle Hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of J.I. Case, 311-B
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery AH | 50 |
| Charging system | Generator |
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 58th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the J.I. Case 311-B have?
The J.I. Case 311-B delivers 41 hp[P] HP.
What years was the J.I. Case 311-B produced?
The J.I. Case 311-B was produced in 1958-1959.
What transmission does the J.I. Case 311-B use?
The J.I. Case 311-B uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the J.I. Case 311-B weigh?
The J.I. Case 311-B weighs 4076 lbs [1848 kg].
Is the J.I. Case 311-B 4WD?
The J.I. Case 311-B is available in 2WD.