Introduction
Minneapolis-Moline ZTU: A Classic Row-Crop Tractor
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU is a row-crop tractor produced between 1936 and 1948 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As a staple of mid-20th-century agriculture, this two-wheel-drive machine was engineered to provide reliable mechanical power for diverse farming operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 185.8 cubic-inch (3.0 L) four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It operates at a rated speed of 1500 RPM and produces 29 horsepower. With a compression ratio of 5.75:1 and an oil bath air cleaner, the engine was designed for durability during extended field work.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The ZTU utilizes an unsynchronized gear transmission featuring five forward gears and one reverse gear. Power transfer is managed by a 10-inch dry disc clutch. The machine is configured as a two-wheel-drive unit, ensuring straightforward mechanical operation.
Operation and Control
The operator interface consists of an open station designed for visibility. Steering is achieved through a manual worm-and-sector system, and braking is provided by drum brakes. The rear power take-off (PTO) operates at a standard 540 RPM, allowing for the connection of various implements.
Dimensions and Chassis
The tractor has a wheelbase of 82 inches (208 cm) and an overall length of 132 inches (335 cm). It weighs approximately 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg). The rear tread width is adjustable from 54 to 84 inches (137 to 213 cm), providing the flexibility required for different row-crop spacing needs.
Conclusion
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU serves as a representative example of agricultural engineering from the 1930s and 1940s. Its robust construction and standardized mechanical components made it a practical tool for row-crop farmers of that era, and it remains a notable machine for collectors interested in mid-century American farm equipment.
Production Information of Minneapolis-Moline, ZTU
- Row-Crop tractor
- Built in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| Manufacturer | Minneapolis-Moline |
|---|---|
| Original price | $1,500 (1948) |
Dimension and Tires Information of Minneapolis-Moline, ZTU
| Front tread | 7 inches [17 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 82 inches [208 cm] |
| Weight | 4,000 lbs [1814 kg] |
| Height | 60 inches [152 cm] |
| Length | 132 inches [335 cm] |
| Rear tread | 54 to 84 inches [137 to 213 cm] |
| Clearance (rear axle) | 22.75 inches [57 cm] |
| Width | 79 inches [200 cm] |
| Ag front | 5.25x16 |
|---|---|
| Ag front(optional) | 5.50x16 |
| Ag rear | 9.00x36 |
Engine Specifications of Minneapolis-Moline, ZTU
- Liquid-cooled
- 4-cylinder
| Coolant capacity | 14 qts [13.2 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 185.8 ci [3.0 L] |
| Oil capacity | 7 qts [6.6 L] |
| Compression | 5.75:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.625x4.50 inches [92 x 114 mm] |
| Firing order | 1-3-4-2 |
| Rated RPM | 1500 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of Minneapolis-Moline, ZTU
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 28 qts [26.5 L] |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 10-inch dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Minneapolis-Moline, ZTU
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Drum brakes
| Steering | Manual worm-and-sector |
|---|
Power Information of Minneapolis-Moline, ZTU
| Rear PTO Type | 540 (1.375) |
|---|
Where it sits
With 29 hp[B] HP, the Minneapolis-Moline ZTU sits just below ZA (40 HP) in Minneapolis-Moline's range. Its power puts it in the 37th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Minneapolis-Moline ZTU have?
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU delivers 29 hp[B] HP.
What years was the Minneapolis-Moline ZTU produced?
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU was produced in 1936-1948.
What engine does the Minneapolis-Moline ZTU have?
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU is powered by a 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Minneapolis-Moline ZTU use?
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.
How much does the Minneapolis-Moline ZTU weigh?
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU weighs 4,000 lbs [1814 kg].
Is the Minneapolis-Moline ZTU 4WD?
The Minneapolis-Moline ZTU is available in 2WD.