Introduction
Minneapolis-Moline RTS: Standard-Tread Agricultural Tractor
The Minneapolis-Moline RTS is a standard-tread tractor produced between 1939 and 1954 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Designed as the fixed-tread variant of the R series, this machine was engineered for general agricultural utility during the mid-20th century.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 165 cubic-inch (2.7 L) liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder gasoline engine. It operates at a rated speed of 1500 RPM to produce 25 horsepower. The engine configuration features a 1-3-4-2 firing order, with specific maintenance tolerances including an intake valve clearance of 0.025 inches and an exhaust valve clearance of 0.014 inches.
Transmission and Mechanical Systems
The RTS utilizes a two-wheel drive system managed by manual steering. Power is delivered to the ground via an unsynchronized gear transmission providing 4 forward speeds and 1 reverse gear. The tractor is equipped with a rear PTO operating at 560 RPM, facilitating the operation of various mounted implements.
Dimensions and Chassis
With a total weight of 3,100 lbs (1406 kg), the tractor measures 108.5 inches in length and 81.1 inches in width. The wheelbase is 69 inches, and the rear tread width is adjustable between 54 and 88 inches to accommodate different row spacings. It is fitted with 5.00-15 front agricultural tires and 10-34 rear agricultural tires.
Electrical and Operator Station
The electrical system is based on a 6-volt architecture powered by a generator. The operator station is an open-platform design, although a cab was available as an optional configuration to provide shelter during operation.
Conclusion
With a total production run of 906 units, the Minneapolis-Moline RTS serves as a representative example of the mid-range standard-tread tractors of its era. Its simple mechanical design and adjustable tread settings make it a practical choice for light-to-medium duty field work and a notable subject for vintage equipment collectors.
Production Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTS
- The Minneapolis-Moline RTS was the standard, or fixed tread, version of the R series.
- Standard-tread tractor
- Built in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| Manufacturer | Minneapolis-Moline |
|---|---|
| Total built | 906 |
Dimension and Tires Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTS
| Rear tread | 54 to 88 inches [137 to 223 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 69 inches [175 cm] |
| Weight | 3,100 lbs [1406 kg] |
| Height | 68.5 inches [173 cm] |
| Length | 108.5 inches [275 cm] |
| Front tread | 47.5 inches [120 cm] |
| Width | 81.1 inches [205 cm] |
| Ag front | 5.00-15 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 10-34 |
Engine Specifications of Minneapolis-Moline, RTS
- Liquid-cooled
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.014 inches [0.356 mm] |
|---|---|
| Firing order | 1-3-4-2 |
| Starter volts | 6 |
| Coolant capacity | 13.5 qts [12.8 L] |
| Oil capacity | 7 qts [6.6 L] |
| Displacement | 165 ci [2.7 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1500 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.625x4.00 inches [92 x 102 mm] |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
| Point gap | 0.020 inches [0.508 mm] |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
Transmission Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTS
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Minneapolis-Moline, RTS
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station. Cab optional.
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Power Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTS
| Rear PTO Type | 560 |
|---|
Electrical System of Minneapolis-Moline, RTS
| Charging system | Generator |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
Where it sits
With 25 hp[B] HP, the Minneapolis-Moline RTS sits between JTS (24 HP) and ZTS (27 HP) in Minneapolis-Moline's range. Its power puts it in the 28th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Minneapolis-Moline RTS have?
The Minneapolis-Moline RTS delivers 25 hp[B] HP.
What years was the Minneapolis-Moline RTS produced?
The Minneapolis-Moline RTS was produced in 1939-1954.
What engine does the Minneapolis-Moline RTS have?
The Minneapolis-Moline RTS is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Minneapolis-Moline RTS use?
The Minneapolis-Moline RTS uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.
How much does the Minneapolis-Moline RTS weigh?
The Minneapolis-Moline RTS weighs 3,100 lbs [1406 kg].
Is the Minneapolis-Moline RTS 4WD?
The Minneapolis-Moline RTS is available in 2WD.