Introduction
Massey Ferguson 253 Utility Tractor
The Massey Ferguson 253 is a utility tractor produced between 1988 and 1998. Designed for versatility in varied agricultural environments, it was available in both 2WD and optional 4WD configurations to suit different terrain requirements.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a Perkins AT3.152.4 turbocharged diesel engine. This 3-cylinder liquid-cooled unit features a 2.5-liter displacement and generates 57 horsepower (42.5 kW) at a rated speed of 2250 RPM. It utilizes a dual dry element air cleaner for engine protection in dusty field conditions.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Operators can choose between an 8-speed sliding gear transmission or an 8-speed synchronized manual shuttle. The sliding gear variant requires the tractor to be stopped and the clutch engaged for gear changes. The drivetrain is supported by hydrostatic power steering and wet disc brakes for reliable control and stopping power.
Hydraulics and PTO
The open-center hydraulic system provides a pump flow of 4.2 gpm (15.9 lpm) with a total capacity of 11.4 gallons (43.1 L). The rear PTO operates at 540 RPM, utilizing a two-stage clutch to provide live power. The Category II rear hitch includes both position and draft control, offering a lift capacity of 2,621 lbs (1188 kg).
Dimensions and Chassis
The 2WD model features a 76.1-inch wheelbase and a weight of 4,020 lbs, while the 4WD version is slightly heavier at 4,735 lbs with a 77-inch wheelbase. Both models are equipped with a two-post ROPS structure for operator safety. Ground clearance varies by configuration, measuring 9.8 inches for 2WD and 11.5 inches for 4WD models.
Conclusion
The Massey Ferguson 253 serves as a capable utility tractor for farmers requiring a balance of power and maneuverability. Its mechanical simplicity, combined with the availability of both 2WD and 4WD options, makes it well-suited for general field work and implement operation.
Production Information of Massey Ferguson, 253
- Utility tractor
| Manufacturer | Massey Ferguson |
|---|---|
| Original price | $20600 (1997) |
Dimension and Tires Information of Massey Ferguson, 253
| 4WD Ground clearance | 11.5 inches [29 cm] |
|---|---|
| 2WD Wheelbase | 76.1 inches [193 cm] |
| 2WD Width | 70 inches [177 cm] |
| 4WD Length | 128 inches [325 cm] |
| 4WD Wheelbase | 77 inches [195 cm] |
| 2WD Weight | 4,020 lbs [1823 kg] |
| 4WD Width | 73.3 inches [186 cm] |
| 2WD Length | 125.5 inches [318 cm] |
| 2WD Ground clearance | 9.8 inches [24 cm] |
| 4WD Weight | 4,735 lbs [2147 kg] |
| Height (ROPS) | 87 inches [220 cm] |
| Standard tires (ag) | Front: 6.50-16. Rear: 13.6-28 (2WD) |
|---|---|
| Standard tires (ag)(optional) | Front: 280/80R-20. Rear: 14.9-28 (4WD) |
Engine Specifications of Massey Ferguson, 253
- Perkins AT3.152.4
- Liquid-cooled
- Turbocharged diesel
- 3-cylinder
| Air cleaner | Dual dry element |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 152 ci [2.5 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2250 |
| Power | 57 hp [42.5 kW] |
| Coolant capacity | 10.8 qts [10.2 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Massey Ferguson, 253
Transmission variants 1
- Tractor must be stopped, and clutch used, to shift gears.
| Type | Sliding gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| Type | Synchronized manual shuttle |
|---|---|
| Gears | 8 forward and reverse |
- 8-speed sliding gear
- 8-speed synchronized manual shuttle
Mechanical Specs of Massey Ferguson, 253
- Two-post ROPS.
- Wet disc brakes
| Drive | 4x2 2WD |
|---|---|
| Drive(optional) | 4x4 MFWD 4WD (optional) |
| Steering | Hydrostatic power |
Power Information of Massey Ferguson, 253
| Rear PTO | Live (two-stage clutch) |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | Independent (4WD) |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Massey Ferguson, 253
| Type | Open |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 11.4 gal [43.1 L] |
| Pump flow | 4.2 gpm [15.9 lpm] |
Three-Point Hitch of Massey Ferguson, 253
| Rear Type | II |
|---|---|
| Control | Position and draft control |
| Rear lift | 2,621 lbs [1188 kg] |
Electrical System of Massey Ferguson, 253
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 57 HP, the Massey Ferguson 253 sits between 254S (56 HP) and 165 (58 HP) in Massey Ferguson's range. Its power puts it in the 40th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Massey Ferguson 253 have?
The Massey Ferguson 253 delivers 57 HP.
What years was the Massey Ferguson 253 produced?
The Massey Ferguson 253 was produced in 1988-1998.
What engine does the Massey Ferguson 253 have?
The Massey Ferguson 253 is powered by a Turbocharged diesel, 3-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Massey Ferguson 253 use?
The Massey Ferguson 253 uses a Sliding gear transmission.
How much does the Massey Ferguson 253 weigh?
The Massey Ferguson 253 weighs 4,020 lbs [1823 kg].
Is the Massey Ferguson 253 4WD?
The Massey Ferguson 253 is available in 2WD/4WD.