Nichols-Shepard 20-42 tractor

Nichols-Shepard 20-42

Power

22 hp[B] hp

Production

1918-1925

Engine

2-cylinder

Transmission

Gear

Weight

13500 lbs [6123 kg]

Drive

2WD

Introduction

Nichols & Shepard 20-42 Standard-Tread Tractor

The Nichols & Shepard 20-42 is a standard-tread tractor produced between 1918 and 1925 in Battle Creek, Michigan. Originally marketed as the 18-36, the model was renamed to the 20-42 to reflect an increase in its power output during its production lifecycle.

Engine and Performance

The machine is powered by a two-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine designed to run on kerosene. It features a displacement of 1005 cubic inches (16.5 liters) with a bore and stroke of 8.00 by 10.00 inches. The tractor provides a claimed drawbar power of 42 hp (31.3 kW) and a belt power of 20 hp (14.9 kW), allowing it to pull up to five 14-inch plows.

Transmission and Mechanical Systems

The drivetrain utilizes a gear-type transmission providing two forward gears and one reverse gear. Power is transferred through a dry drum clutch to the bull gear final drives. The tractor operates as a two-wheel drive system, with steering managed via a manual control interface.

Dimensions and Construction

The 20-42 is a heavy-duty unit weighing 13,500 lbs (6,123 kg). It measures 185 inches in length, 90 inches in width, and 110 inches in height. The chassis is supported by steel agricultural tires, specifically 38x8 at the front and 64x20 at the rear. The design includes an open operator station and a 4-inch diameter rear axle to support its operational weight.

Conclusion

The Nichols & Shepard 20-42 is a high-capacity tractor designed for heavy-duty field work and belt-driven operations. Its configuration and substantial mass make it a representative example of early 20th-century agricultural machinery built for durability and high-torque tasks.

Production Information of Nichols-Shepard, 20-42

  • The Nichols & Shepard 20-42 was originally named the 18-36. By 1919 it had been renamed to reflect the higher power level.
  • Standard-tread tractor
  • Built in Battle Creek, Michigan, USA
ManufacturerNichols-Shepard

Dimension and Tires Information of Nichols-Shepard, 20-42

Length185 inches [469 cm]
Rear axle4 inch diameter [101 mm]
Weight13500 lbs [6123 kg]
Width90 inches [228 cm]
Height110 inches [279 cm]
Ag front38x8 steel
Ag rear64x20 steel

Engine Specifications of Nichols-Shepard, 20-42

  • Nichols & Shepard
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Kerosene
  • 2-cylinder
Displacement1005 ci [16.5 L]
Bore/Stroke8.00x10.00 inches [203 x 254 mm]

Transmission Information of Nichols-Shepard, 20-42

Transmission variants 1

TypeGear
Gears2 forward and 1 reverse
ClutchDry drum

Mechanical Specs of Nichols-Shepard, 20-42

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station.
  • Manual steering
Final drivesBull gear

Power Information of Nichols-Shepard, 20-42

Drawbar (claimed)42 hp [31.3 kW]
Belt (claimed)20 hp [14.9 kW]
Plows5 (14-inch)

Where it sits

With 22 hp[B] HP, the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 sits just below 25-50 (27 HP) in Nichols-Shepard's range. Its power puts it in the 27th percentile of 1910s models in our database (158 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 have?

The Nichols-Shepard 20-42 delivers 22 hp[B] HP.

What years was the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 produced?

The Nichols-Shepard 20-42 was produced in 1918-1925.

What engine does the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 have?

The Nichols-Shepard 20-42 is powered by a 2-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 use?

The Nichols-Shepard 20-42 uses a Gear transmission.

How much does the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 weigh?

The Nichols-Shepard 20-42 weighs 13500 lbs [6123 kg].

Is the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 4WD?

The Nichols-Shepard 20-42 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Nichols-Shepard 20-42 with another model