Introduction
Minneapolis-Moline UDLX: A Historical Dual-Purpose Tractor
Produced between 1938 and 1941, the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX holds a unique position in agricultural history as the first mass-produced tractor to feature an integrated, factory-fitted cab. Designed to bridge the gap between agricultural utility and road transportation, this machine was engineered for both field work and high-speed travel.
Engine and Performance
The UDLX is powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a displacement of 283.7 cubic inches (4.6 liters). It operates at a rated speed of 1275 RPM. This power plant delivers 27 horsepower at the drawbar and 36 horsepower at the PTO, providing sufficient capacity to pull a 3 to 4-bottom plow in standard soil conditions.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The tractor utilizes a two-wheel-drive configuration paired with a synchronized gear transmission. The gearbox provides 5 forward gears and 1 reverse gear, allowing for a range of speeds suitable for field operations and, notably, a high-speed road gear capable of reaching 40 miles per hour, which was an unconventional specification for the era.
Operator Environment and Mechanical Features
Distinguished by its enclosed cab, the UDLX offered advanced operator comfort for the late 1930s, including a heating system, an integrated radio, and a second seat. The mechanical setup relies on manual steering for directional control and mechanical drum brakes for stopping power, ensuring functional operation consistent with the design standards of its time.
Dimensions and Chassis
The machine features a wheelbase of 81 inches (205 cm) and an overall length of 141 inches (358 cm). With a total weight of 6,400 lbs (2,903 kg), the tractor maintains a stable footprint for heavy-duty pulling tasks. It is equipped with 6.00x16 agricultural tires on the front to manage terrain while performing field work.
Conclusion
With only 125 units produced, the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX is primarily recognized as a collector's item today. It represents an ambitious attempt by the manufacturer to create a versatile machine capable of dual-purpose use, setting a historical precedent for the integration of operator comfort features in farm equipment.
Production Information of Minneapolis-Moline, UDLX
- The Minneapolis-Moline UDLX was the first production farm tractor with cab. Designed to operate as both a tractor and automobile, the UDLX was equipped with a 40 mile-per-hour road gear.
- Original price was $2,155 in 1938
| Manufacturer | Minneapolis-Moline |
|---|---|
| Total built | 125 |
Dimension and Tires Information of Minneapolis-Moline, UDLX
| Wheelbase | 81 inches [205 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6,400 lbs [2903 kg] |
| Height | 94 inches [238 cm] |
| Length | 141 inches [358 cm] |
| Width | 77 inches [195 cm] |
| Ag front | 6.00x16 |
|---|
Engine Specifications of Minneapolis-Moline, UDLX
- Minneapolis-Moline
- Liquid-cooled
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder
| Compression | 5.6:1 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 283.7 ci [4.6 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1275 |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.25x5.00 inches [108 x 127 mm] |
| Starter volts | 6 |
Transmission Information of Minneapolis-Moline, UDLX
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Synchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Minneapolis-Moline, UDLX
- Two-wheel drive
- Cab standard with heat, radio, and second seat.
- Manual steering
- Mechanical drum brakes
Power Information of Minneapolis-Moline, UDLX
| Drawbar (claimed) | 27 hp [20.1 kW] |
|---|---|
| PTO (claimed) | 36 hp [26.8 kW] |
| Plows | 3-4 |
Where it sits
With 40 hp[P] HP, the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX sits between BG (30 HP) and G350 (45 HP) in Minneapolis-Moline's range. Its power puts it in the 61th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX have?
The Minneapolis-Moline UDLX delivers 40 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX produced?
The Minneapolis-Moline UDLX was produced in 1938-1941.
What engine does the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX have?
The Minneapolis-Moline UDLX is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX use?
The Minneapolis-Moline UDLX uses a Synchronized gear transmission.
How much does the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX weigh?
The Minneapolis-Moline UDLX weighs 6,400 lbs [2903 kg].
Is the Minneapolis-Moline UDLX 4WD?
The Minneapolis-Moline UDLX is available in 2WD.