Introduction
Massey Ferguson 88 Standard-Tread Tractor
The Massey Ferguson 88 is a standard-tread tractor produced between 1959 and 1962 in Detroit, Michigan. Serving as the western or 'wheatland' variant of the Massey 85, this machine was designed for large-scale field operations, distinguished by its fixed-tread front axle and full fenders.
Engine and Power
The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder Continental E-242 L-head engine. With a displacement of 242 cubic inches (4.0 liters) and a compression ratio of 8.8:1, the engine delivers 70 horsepower at a rated speed of 2000 RPM. It utilizes a 12-volt electrical starting system.
Transmission and PTO
The transmission provides 8 forward and 2 reverse gears, organized into two ranges with four gears each. Power is managed through a 304.8mm dry disc clutch. The live rear power take-off (PTO) operates at a standard 540 RPM speed, utilizing a wet disc clutch system for engagement.
Hydraulics and Mechanical Features
The hydraulic system features an open-center design equipped with two valves to manage external implements. Mechanical control is supported by power steering for improved maneuverability, while stopping power is provided by dry disc brakes.
Dimensions and Weight
The tractor features a wheelbase of 88 inches (223 cm) with a front tread of 60 inches and a rear tread of 70 inches. It is equipped with 7.50x18 front tires and 15x30 rear agricultural tires. The operating weight of the unit is 7165 lbs (3250 kg), which can be increased to 11883 lbs (5390 kg) when fully ballasted.
Conclusion
The Massey Ferguson 88 is a specialized heavy-duty tractor engineered for wheatland applications. By omitting the three-point hitch in favor of a fixed-tread configuration, it emphasizes structural stability and high-output traction for field work. It remains a notable example of American-built agricultural machinery from the early 1960s.
Production Information of Massey Ferguson, 88
- The Massey Ferguson 88 was the western/wheatland version of the Massey 85. It offered a fixed-tread front axle and full fenders and lacked a three-point hitch.
- Original price was $4,325 in 1962
- Standard-tread tractor
- Built in Detroit, Michigan, USA
| Manufacturer | Massey Ferguson |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Massey Ferguson, 88
| Wheelbase | 88 inches [223 cm] |
|---|---|
| Rear tread | 70 inches [177 cm] |
| Front tread | 60 inches [152 cm] |
| Operating weight | 7165 lbs [3250 kg] |
| Ballasted weight | 11883 lbs [5390 kg] |
| Ag front | 7.50x18 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 15x30 |
Engine Specifications of Massey Ferguson, 88
- Continental E-242
- Liquid-cooled vertical L-head
- LP gas
- 4-cylinder
| Starter volts | 12 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 242 ci [4.0 L] |
| Rated RPM | 2000 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.875x5.125 inches [98 x 130 mm] |
| Rated RPM | 2000 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Compression | 8.8:1 |
Transmission Information of Massey Ferguson, 88
Transmission variants 1
- Four gears, plus reverse, in two ranges.
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | 304.8mm dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Massey Ferguson, 88
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Power steering
- Dry disc brakes
Power Information of Massey Ferguson, 88
| Rear PTO | Live |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Wet disc |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
Hydraulics Specifications of Massey Ferguson, 88
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Valves | 2 |
Where it sits
With 70 hp[P] HP, the Massey Ferguson 88 sits just below Super 90 (77 HP) in Massey Ferguson's range. Its power puts it in the 92th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Massey Ferguson 88 have?
The Massey Ferguson 88 delivers 70 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Massey Ferguson 88 produced?
The Massey Ferguson 88 was produced in 1959-1962.
What engine does the Massey Ferguson 88 have?
The Massey Ferguson 88 is powered by a LP gas, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Massey Ferguson 88 use?
The Massey Ferguson 88 uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the Massey Ferguson 88 weigh?
The Massey Ferguson 88 weighs 7165 lbs [3250 kg].
Is the Massey Ferguson 88 4WD?
The Massey Ferguson 88 is available in 2WD.