Introduction
Minneapolis-Moline RTU: Row-Crop Tractor
The Minneapolis-Moline RTU is a classic row-crop tractor produced between 1939 and 1954 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. As the most popular version of the manufacturer's R series, it served as a versatile utility machine for mid-century agricultural operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a displacement of 165 cubic inches (2.7 L). It operates at a rated speed of 1500 RPM and utilizes a Marvel Schebler 1-inch carburetor. The engine features an oil bath air cleaner and maintains a compression ratio of 6.1:1, delivering approximately 25 horsepower for field tasks.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power is transferred to the wheels via an unsynchronized gear transmission providing 4 forward and 1 reverse speeds. The system employs a dry disc clutch. This two-wheel-drive model is equipped with disc brakes and manual steering to ensure control during operation.
Dimensions and Hydraulics
The RTU features a 76-inch wheelbase and an adjustable rear tread width ranging from 54 to 88 inches, allowing it to adapt to various row spacings. With an operating weight of 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg), it maintains stability while working. A rear PTO with a 1.375-inch shaft is provided, and a hitch option became available starting in 1952.
Conclusion
With 25,824 units produced, the Minneapolis-Moline RTU remains a significant example of American agricultural engineering. Its design, characterized by a straightforward mechanical layout and row-crop adaptability, made it a staple in the farming industry for over a decade.
Production Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU
- 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
| 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
- 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, RTU
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Disc brakes
Power Information of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU
| Rear PTO Type | 560 (1.375) |
|---|
Three-Point Hitch of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU
| Type | Hitchor |
|---|
Optional, available beginning in 1952.
Electrical System of Minneapolis-Moline, RTU
| Charging system | Generator |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
Where it sits
With 25 hp[B] HP, the Minneapolis-Moline RTU 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 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.