Introduction
Massey-Harris 55 Standard-Tread Tractor
The Massey-Harris 55 is a standard-tread agricultural tractor manufactured between 1946 and 1955. Designed for heavy-duty field operations, this model served as a primary power unit for mid-20th-century farming, offering a robust mechanical configuration and a liquid-cooled powertrain.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by a 4-cylinder Continental J382 engine, featuring a displacement of 382 cubic inches (6.3 liters). This liquid-cooled unit is configured to operate on LP gas and delivers a rated output of 62 horsepower at 1,350 RPM. Power is transmitted through a gear-type transmission providing 4 forward gears and 1 reverse gear, coupled with a dry disc clutch.
Hydraulics and PTO
The hydraulic system features a total flow capacity of 10 gallons per minute (37.9 liters per minute) with a total system capacity of 3.5 gallons (13.2 liters). The rear power take-off (PTO) operates at a standard speed of 540 RPM at an engine speed of 1,350 RPM, facilitating the use of various implements common during its production era.
Mechanical Configuration
Built on a two-wheel drive chassis, the Massey-Harris 55 utilizes manual steering and differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes. The standard wheelbase measures 88.5 inches (224 cm), with a total length of 145.5 inches (369 cm). The operator station is of the open type, reflecting the design standards of the period.
Conclusion
The Massey-Harris 55 remains a significant example of post-war agricultural machinery. Its combination of a high-displacement engine, straightforward mechanical controls, and standard-tread utility makes it suitable for heavy traction tasks and a notable subject for vintage tractor enthusiasts.
Production Information of Massey-Harris, 55
- Standard-tread tractor
- Original price was $3,850 in 1955
| Manufacturer | Massey-Harris |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Massey-Harris, 55
| Standard Wheelbase | 88.5 inches [224 cm] |
|---|---|
| Standard Rear tread | 57.4 inches [145 cm] |
| Height | 83.3 inches [211 cm] |
| Western Wheelbase | 90.1 inches [228 cm] |
| Western Rear tread | 70 inches [177 cm] |
| Length | 145.5 inches [369 cm] |
| Ag front | 7.50x18 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 15-34 |
| Standard Ag rear | 14-34 |
| Western Ag rear | 18-26 |
Engine Specifications of Massey-Harris, 55
- Continental J382
- Liquid-cooled
- LP gas
- 4-cylinder
| Starter volts | 6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 382 ci [6.3 L] |
| Compression | 4.5:1 |
| Rated RPM | 1350 |
| Coolant capacity | 28 qts [26.5 L] |
| Oil capacity | 10 qts [9.5 L] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Rated RPM | 1350 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of Massey-Harris, 55
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Massey-Harris, 55
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes
Power Information of Massey-Harris, 55
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
|---|---|
| Engine RPM | 521@1350 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Massey-Harris, 55
| Capacity | 3.5 gal [13.2 L] |
|---|---|
| Total flow | 10 gpm [37.9 lpm] |
Where it sits
With 62 hp[P] HP, the Massey-Harris 55 sits just below 555 (78 HP) in Massey-Harris's range. Its power puts it in the 91th percentile of 1940s models in our database (263 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Massey-Harris 55 have?
The Massey-Harris 55 delivers 62 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Massey-Harris 55 produced?
The Massey-Harris 55 was produced in 1946-1955.
What engine does the Massey-Harris 55 have?
The Massey-Harris 55 is powered by a LP gas, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Massey-Harris 55 use?
The Massey-Harris 55 uses a Gear transmission.
Is the Massey-Harris 55 4WD?
The Massey-Harris 55 is available in 2WD.