Introduction
J.I. Case 500: Standard-Tread Agricultural Tractor
Produced between 1953 and 1956 in Racine, Wisconsin, the J.I. Case 500 is a standard-tread tractor designed for heavy-duty agricultural operations. Positioned between the LA and 600 series, this model was engineered to provide reliable performance through a liquid-cooled six-cylinder diesel engine.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 377 cubic-inch (6.2 L) J.I. Case six-cylinder diesel engine. Utilizing a vertical I-head configuration, the engine operates at a rated 1350 RPM. It features a compression ratio of 15.0:1 and is supported by an oil bath air cleaner system to ensure filtration integrity in dusty field conditions.
Transmission and PTO
The drivetrain consists of a gear-type transmission offering 4 forward speeds and 1 reverse speed. Power take-off is managed by an independent rear PTO system operating at a standard 540 RPM, allowing for the effective operation of towed or mounted implements.
Chassis and Dimensions
Built with a two-wheel-drive configuration, the Case 500 features a wheelbase of 88 inches (223 cm). The machine has an operating weight of 8,000 lbs (3,628 kg), which can be increased to 11,605 lbs (5,264 kg) when ballasted. The operator environment is an open station design, typical of the era, focusing on functional visibility and control access.
Conclusion
The J.I. Case 500 serves as a robust utility tractor suited for traditional farming tasks. With 5,985 units produced, it remains a significant piece of mid-century agricultural machinery, valued for its mechanical simplicity and structural durability.
Production Information of J.I. Case, 500
- Original price was $4,900 in 1958
- Standard-tread tractor
- The Case 500 was also made in an industrial version, the Case 520. Only 265 were built.
- Built in Racine, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | J.I. Case |
|---|---|
| Total built | 5,985 |
Dimension and Tires Information of J.I. Case, 500
| Rear tread | 60.75 inches [154 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 88 inches [223 cm] |
| Ballasted weight | 11,605 lbs [5264 kg] |
| Operating weight | 8,000 lbs [3628 kg] |
| Length | 114.3 inches [290 cm] |
| Front tread | 62 inches [157 cm] |
| Height | 61.4 inches [155 cm] |
| Ag front | 7.50-18 |
|---|---|
| Ag front(optional) | 18-26 |
| Ag rear | 14-30 |
| Ag rear | 15-30 |
| Ag rear(optional) | 48 (steel) |
| Ag front | 30 (steel) |
Engine Specifications of J.I. Case, 500
- J.I. Case
- Liquid-cooled vertical I-head
- Diesel
- 6-cylinder
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 377 ci [6.2 L] |
| Compression | 15.0:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.00x5.00 inches [102 x 127 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Rated RPM | 1350 |
Transmission Information of J.I. Case, 500
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of J.I. Case, 500
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
Power Information of J.I. Case, 500
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 87th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the J.I. Case 500 have?
The J.I. Case 500 delivers 61 hp[P] HP.
What years was the J.I. Case 500 produced?
The J.I. Case 500 was produced in 1953-1956.
What engine does the J.I. Case 500 have?
The J.I. Case 500 is powered by a Diesel, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the J.I. Case 500 use?
The J.I. Case 500 uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the J.I. Case 500 weigh?
The J.I. Case 500 weighs 8,000 lbs [3628 kg].
Is the J.I. Case 500 4WD?
The J.I. Case 500 is available in 2WD.