Introduction
Massey Ferguson 550: Row-Crop Tractor (1977-1979)
The Massey Ferguson 550 is a two-wheel drive row-crop tractor manufactured in Coventry, England, between 1977 and 1979. It is powered by a 47-horsepower diesel engine, positioning it as a versatile utility tractor for standard agricultural operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is equipped with a Perkins AD3.152S three-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 2.5 liters (152.6 cubic inches). It features direct injection, liquid cooling, and a compression ratio of 16.5:1. The engine provides 47 hp (35.0 kW) at a rated speed of 2250 RPM, delivering 124.6 lb-ft of torque at 1400 RPM.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Two transmission configurations were available: a standard 8-speed gear transmission (eight forward and two reverse gears) and an optional 12-speed Multi-Power transmission featuring a two-speed power shift. Both systems utilize a dry disc clutch for mechanical power engagement.
Hydraulics and Hitch
The hydraulic system operates at a pressure of 2000 psi (137.9 bar). It delivers a pump flow of 9.5 gpm, with a total system flow capacity of 16.5 gpm. The rear Category II hitch is equipped with position and draft control, providing a lift capacity of 3,120 lbs (1,415 kg) at the ends.
Power Take-Off (PTO)
The PTO system offers flexible operation with live and independent options. It supports 540 RPM at 1684 engine RPM for the live system, and 540 RPM at 1895 engine RPM for the independent system, alongside a 1000 RPM capability. The rear PTO utilizes a 1.375-inch shaft.
Dimensions and Operator Station
With a wheelbase of 82 inches (208 cm) and an operating weight of 4,592 lbs (2,082 kg), the tractor is designed for stability in row-crop applications. It includes power steering and drum brakes. The operator station features a standard cab with a heater, with a ROPS structure available as an option.
Conclusion
The Massey Ferguson 550 is a capable utility tractor designed for general agricultural tasks. Its combination of a proven Perkins engine, flexible transmission options, and standard hydraulic draft control makes it a reliable choice for farmers requiring a manageable and durable machine for field work.
Production Information of Massey Ferguson, 550
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Coventry, England
| Manufacturer | Massey Ferguson |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Massey Ferguson, 550
| Wheelbase | 82 inches [208 cm] |
|---|---|
| Operating weight | 4592 lbs [2082 kg] |
| Height | 91 inches [231 cm] |
| Length | 140 inches [355 cm] |
| Clearance (drawbar) | 11.3 inches [28 cm] |
| Width | 65 inches [165 cm] |
| Ag front | 6.00-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 12.4/11-32 |
| Ag rear | 12.4/11-28 |
| Ag front | 6.00-19 |
Engine Specifications of Massey Ferguson, 550
- Perkins AD3.152S
- Liquid-cooled
- Diesel
- 3-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 7.2 qts [6.8 L] |
|---|---|
| Starter type | Electric |
| Fuel system | Direct injection |
| Coolant capacity | 19 qts [18.0 L] |
| Pre-heating | Thermostart |
| Compression | 16.5:1 |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
| Displacement | 152.6 ci [2.5 L] |
| Power | 47 hp [35.0 kW] |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.60x5.00 inches [91 x 127 mm] |
| Torque RPM | 1400 |
| Torque | 124.6 lb-ft [169.0 Nm] |
| Rated RPM | 2250 |
Transmission Information of Massey Ferguson, 550
Transmission variants 1
- Four gears, plus reverse, in high and low ranges.
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Transmission variants 2
- Three gears in low and high ranges with two-speed Multi-Power power shift.
| Transmission | Multi-Power |
|---|---|
| Type | Two-speed power shift |
| Gears | 12 forward and 4 reverse |
- 8-speed gear
- 12-speed two-speed power shift
Mechanical Specs of Massey Ferguson, 550
- Two-wheel drive
- Cab standard with heater. ROPS available.
- Power steering
- Drum brakes
Power Information of Massey Ferguson, 550
| Engine RPM | 540@1684 (live) |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO | Live |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
| Rear PTO Type(optional) | Hydraulic (independent) |
| Rear PTO Type(optional) | Independent |
| Rear PTO Type(optional) | 540@1895 (independent) |
| Rear PTO Type(optional) | 1000 (1.375) |
| Clutch | Mechanical dry disc (live) |
Hydraulics Specifications of Massey Ferguson, 550
| Pressure | 2000 psi [137.9 bar] |
|---|---|
| Pump flow | 9.5 gpm [36.0 lpm] |
| Total flow | 16.5 gpm [62.5 lpm] |
Three-Point Hitch of Massey Ferguson, 550
| Rear Type | II |
|---|---|
| Control | Position and draft control |
| Rear lift (at ends) | 3120 lbs [1415 kg] |
Where it sits
With 47 HP, the Massey Ferguson 550 sits just below 565 (60 HP) in Massey Ferguson's range. Its power puts it in the 31th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Massey Ferguson 550 have?
The Massey Ferguson 550 delivers 47 HP.
What years was the Massey Ferguson 550 produced?
The Massey Ferguson 550 was produced in 1977-1979.
What engine does the Massey Ferguson 550 have?
The Massey Ferguson 550 is powered by a Diesel, 3-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Massey Ferguson 550 use?
The Massey Ferguson 550 uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the Massey Ferguson 550 weigh?
The Massey Ferguson 550 weighs 4592 lbs [2082 kg].
Is the Massey Ferguson 550 4WD?
The Massey Ferguson 550 is available in 2WD.