Minneapolis-Moline RTU

Name: Minneapolis-Moline RTU
Brand: Minneapolis-Moline

Power

25 hp[B] hp

Production

1939-1954

Engine

Gasoline, 4-cylinder

Transmission

Unsynchronized gear

Weight

3100 lbs [1406 kg]

Drive

2WD

25–40 HP 1930s 1940s 1950s

Introduction

Minneapolis-Moline RTU: The Enduring Classic for Row-Crop Farming

Step back in time and discover the enduring legacy of the Minneapolis-Moline RTU, a tractor that defined versatility and reliability for row-crop farmers from 1939 to 1954. This beloved machine, affectionately known as the universal row-crop version of the R series, was not just a tractor; it was a workhorse built to last, becoming the most popular model in its lineage. Join us as we delve into the robust engineering and practical design that made the RTU a staple on American farms.

Heart of the Machine: A Powerful Gasoline Engine

Under the hood, the Minneapolis-Moline RTU boasts a robust 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled gasoline engine. Displacing 165 cubic inches (2.7 L) and operating at a rated 1500 RPM, this engine is designed for steady power delivery. It features a reliable Marvel Schebler 1-inch carburetor and an oil bath air cleaner, ensuring efficient fuel combustion and engine longevity even in dusty conditions. With a compression ratio of 6.1:1, it’s built for dependable performance.

Built for the Task: Transmission and Drivetrain

The RTU is equipped with a robust unsynchronized gear transmission, offering 4 forward gears and 1 reverse gear. This setup, combined with a dry disc clutch, provides the driver with precise control over speed and power, essential for navigating diverse field conditions and tasks. Its two-wheel drive configuration ensures efficient power transfer to the rear wheels.

Operator Focused Design: Comfort and Control

Designed with the operator in mind, the RTU features an open operator station, offering excellent visibility of the surrounding work area. Manual steering ensures direct control, while the disc brakes provide reliable stopping power. For those seeking enhanced comfort, the R series, including the RTU, offered an optional Comfort Cab, complete with an upholstered seat, roll-down windows, and a rear door, transforming long workdays into more manageable experiences.

Dimensions and Adaptability for Field Work

This tractor measures 116 inches (294 cm) in length and 76 inches (193 cm) in wheelbase, offering a stable platform for agricultural operations. Its adjustable rear tread can range from 54 to 88 inches (137 to 223 cm), allowing for precise cultivation in row crops. Equipped with agricultural tires, 4.00-15 on the front and 8-36 on the rear, the RTU is ready to tackle various terrains with a total weight of 3100 lbs (1406 kg).

Power Take-Off and Utility

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU is equipped with a rear PTO Type of 560 (1.375), ready to power a variety of implements. While the 'Hitchor' hitch was optional and available from 1952, its inclusion further enhances the tractor's versatility, making it a capable partner for a wide array of agricultural tasks.

Conclusion

"The Minneapolis-Moline RTU stands as a testament to enduring agricultural engineering. With its powerful gasoline engine, practical transmission, and operator-centric design, it offered farmers a reliable and versatile solution for decades. Built in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, and produced in substantial numbers (25,824 units), the RTU's popularity is well-earned. It's more than just a vintage tractor; it's a piece of farming history that continues to inspire admiration for its robust performance and lasting value."

Introduction

Production Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU

The production information of the tractor (RTU) includes details about its manufacturing.

Original price was $1,700 in 1954

Row-Crop tractor

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU was the universal row-crop version of the R series tractors. It was also the most popular version. The R series were available with the Comfort Cab featuring upholstered seat, roll-down windows, and rear door.

Built in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA


Manufacturer	Minneapolis-Moline
Total built	25,824

Dimension and Tires Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU

This section sums up the dimension and tires information of the tractor.


Rear tread	54 to 88 inches [137 to 223 cm]
Wheelbase	76 inches [193 cm]
Weight	3100 lbs [1406 kg]
Height	68.5 inches [173 cm]
Length	116 inches [294 cm]
Front tread	8 inches [20 cm]
Width	81.1 inches [205 cm]


Ag front	4.00-15
Ag rear	8-36

Engine Specifications of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU

Get the specifications for the engine and if different options are available.

Liquid-cooled

Gasoline

4-cylinder


Point gap	0.020 inches [0.508 mm]
Sparkplug gap	0.025 inches [0.635 mm]
Air cleaner	Oil bath
Intake valve clearance	0.025 inches [0.635 mm]
Rated RPM	1500
Firing order	1-3-4-2
Compression	6.1:1
Displacement	165 ci [2.7 L]
Fuel system	Marvel Schebler 1-inch carburetor
Bore/Stroke	3.625x4.00 inches [92 x 102 mm]
Coolant capacity	13.5 qts [12.8 L]
Exhaust valve clearance	0.014 inches [0.356 mm]
Oil capacity	7 qts [6.6 L]
Starter volts	6

Transmission Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTUY

Discover all variants of transmission available for this tractor model.

Transmission variants 1


Type	Unsynchronized gear
Gears	4 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch	Dry disc

Mechanical Specs of Minneapolis-Moline, RTUY

This section summarizes all mechanical information such as the brake system and other specifications.

Two-wheel drive

Open operator station.

Manual steering

Disc brakes

Power Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTUY

Discover the power specifications and options available for this tractor model but also PTO (Power Take-off) information.


Rear PTO Type	560 (1.375)

Three-Point Hitch of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU

Hitch category and rear/front lift capacity.


Type	Hitchor *Optional, available beginning in 1952.

Electrical System of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU

Battery voltage, charging system and ground.


Charging system	Generator
Battery volts	6

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Minneapolis-Moline RTU have?

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU delivers 25 hp[B] HP.

What years was the Minneapolis-Moline RTU produced?

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU was produced in 1939-1954.

What engine does the Minneapolis-Moline RTU have?

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Minneapolis-Moline RTU use?

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.

How much does the Minneapolis-Moline RTU weigh?

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU weighs 3100 lbs [1406 kg].

Is the Minneapolis-Moline RTU 4WD?

The Minneapolis-Moline RTU is available in 2WD.

More Minneapolis-Moline models

RTE25 HP · 1947 - 1953 RTN25 HP · 1939 - 1951 RTS25 HP · 1939 - 1954 JT24 HP · 1934 - 1937 JTS24 HP · 1936 - 1938 ZTS27 HP · 1937 - 1947 ZTU29 HP · 1936 - 1948 BF30 HP · 1950 - 1953

View all 61 Minneapolis-Moline models →

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