Introduction
Massey-Harris 30: A Reference for the 1946-1952 Row-Crop Tractor
The Massey-Harris 30 is a row-crop tractor manufactured in Racine, Wisconsin, USA, between 1946 and 1952. As a mid-century agricultural machine, it was designed to provide reliable power for various farming operations, with a total production run of 32,418 units.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a Continental F162 four-cylinder gasoline engine. This liquid-cooled unit features a 162.4 cubic inch (2.7 L) displacement and operates at a rated speed of 1800 RPM. With a compression ratio of 6.1:1, it delivers approximately 36 horsepower, suitable for standard field work and implement operation.
Transmission and Drive System
The drivetrain utilizes a gear-type transmission providing 5 forward speeds and 1 reverse gear, managed by a dry disc clutch. As a two-wheel-drive machine, the tractor relies on mechanical brakes and manual steering for operational control, ensuring a straightforward mechanical interface for the operator.
Hydraulics and Implements
The Massey-Harris 30 is equipped with an open-center hydraulic system. It features a rear power take-off (PTO) that provides 540 RPM at an engine speed of 1500 RPM. The tractor also includes the optional Depth-O-Matic hitch system, which allowed for precise depth control of mounted implements.
Dimensions and Handling
With an operating weight of 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg) and a ballasted weight reaching 5,200 lbs (2,358 kg), the tractor offers significant stability. It measures 128 inches (325 cm) in length and sits on a 214 cm wheelbase. The tractor is configured with 5.00-15 front tires and 10-38 rear tires, with an adjustable rear tread width ranging from 52 to 88 inches to accommodate various row-crop spacings.
Conclusion
The Massey-Harris 30 remains a representative example of post-war agricultural engineering. Its combination of a standard Continental gasoline engine, manual controls, and adjustable tread width made it a versatile tool for farmers of the era, balancing mechanical simplicity with the necessary power for diverse row-crop applications.
Production Information of Massey-Harris, 30
- Original price was $2,065 in 1952
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Racine, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Massey-Harris |
|---|---|
| Total built | 32,418 |
Dimension and Tires Information of Massey-Harris, 30
| Rear tread | 52 to 88 inches [132 to 223 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 84.5 inches [214 cm] |
| Ballasted weight | 5200 lbs [2358 kg] |
| Operating weight | 3500 lbs [1587 kg] |
| Length | 128 inches [325 cm] |
| Front tread | 7.5 to inches [19 to 0 cm] |
| Height | 74.3 inches [188 cm] |
| Ag front | 5.00-15 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 10-38 |
Engine Specifications of Massey-Harris, 30
- Continental F162
- Liquid-cooled
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder
| Coolant capacity | 12 qts [11.4 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 162.4 ci [2.7 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1800 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.4375x4.375 inches [87 x 111 mm] |
| Starter volts | 6 |
| Starter | Electric |
| Compression | 6.1:1 |
Transmission Information of Massey-Harris, 30
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Massey-Harris, 30
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Mechanical brakes
- Manual steering
| Final drives | Bull gear |
|---|
Power Information of Massey-Harris, 30
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
|---|---|
| Engine RPM | 551@1500 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Massey-Harris, 30
| Type | Open center |
|---|
Three-Point Hitch of Massey-Harris, 30
| Type(optional) | Depth-O-Matic |
|---|
Electrical System of Massey-Harris, 30
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
Where it sits
With 36 hp[P] HP, the Massey-Harris 30 sits between 101 Junior (29 HP) and 33 (40 HP) in Massey-Harris's range. Its power puts it in the 56th percentile of 1940s models in our database (263 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Massey-Harris 30 have?
The Massey-Harris 30 delivers 36 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Massey-Harris 30 produced?
The Massey-Harris 30 was produced in 1946-1952.
What engine does the Massey-Harris 30 have?
The Massey-Harris 30 is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Massey-Harris 30 use?
The Massey-Harris 30 uses a Gear transmission.
How much does the Massey-Harris 30 weigh?
The Massey-Harris 30 weighs 3500 lbs [1587 kg].
Is the Massey-Harris 30 4WD?
The Massey-Harris 30 is available in 2WD.