Sheppard Diesel SD-3 tractor

Sheppard Diesel SD-3

Power

32 hp

Production

1949-1956

Engine

Sheppard Diesel 6E, 3-cylinder

Transmission

Gear

Weight

4196 lbs [1903 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

SD-2
SD-4

Introduction

Sheppard Diesel SD-3 Row-Crop Tractor

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 is a row-crop tractor manufactured in Hanover, Pennsylvania, USA, between 1949 and 1956. Part of the SD-2 and SD-4 series, this two-wheel-drive machine was designed to provide reliable mechanical power for mid-century agricultural operations.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by the Sheppard Diesel 6E engine, a 3-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel unit with a 212.8 cubic inch (3.5 L) displacement. It utilizes an indirect injection fuel system and operates at a rated speed of 1650 RPM, delivering approximately 32 horsepower. The engine features a 22:1 compression ratio and a bore/stroke configuration of 4.25 by 5.00 inches.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The SD-3 is equipped with a gear-type transmission providing 8 forward speeds and 2 reverse speeds. Power is transferred through a dry disc clutch. The final drive utilizes spur gears, and the tractor is configured exclusively as a two-wheel-drive model, steered manually by the operator.

Mechanical and Operational Features

The operator station is of the open-platform design. Braking is handled by mechanical drum brakes. The tractor includes a rear power take-off (PTO) operating at 540 RPM, allowing for the connection of various trailing and mounted implements. The wheelbase measures 92 inches (233 cm), with adjustable front and rear tread widths to accommodate different row-crop spacings.

Dimensions and Weight

With a total length of 131 inches (332 cm) and a height of 70.25 inches (178 cm), the SD-3 has a base weight of 4,196 lbs (1,903 kg). It was fitted with various agricultural tire configurations, typically utilizing 5.50-16 or 6.00-16 front tires and 11-38 or 12-38 rear tires.

Conclusion

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 represents a standard row-crop configuration from the early post-war period. Its combination of a 32-horsepower diesel engine, 8-speed transmission, and adjustable tread widths makes it a representative example of mid-sized mechanical agricultural equipment intended for general field cultivation tasks.

Production Information of Sheppard Diesel, SD-3

  • Row-Crop tractor
  • Built in Hanover, Pennsylvania, USA
ManufacturerSheppard Diesel
Total built1441

Dimension and Tires Information of Sheppard Diesel, SD-3

Rear tread54 to 82 inches [137 to 208 cm]
Wheelbase92 inches [233 cm]
Front tread56 to 80 inches [142 to 203 cm]
Weight4196 lbs [1903 kg]
Length131 inches [332 cm]
Front tread9.25/12.75 inches [23/32 cm (tricycle)]
Height70.25 inches [178 cm]
Ag front6.00-16
Ag rear12-38
Ag rear11-38
Ag front5.50-16

Engine Specifications of Sheppard Diesel, SD-3

  • Sheppard Diesel 6E
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Diesel
  • 3-cylinder
Starter typeElectric
Displacement212.8 ci [3.5 L]
Fuel systemIndirect injection
Bore/Stroke4.25x5.00 inches [108 x 127 mm]
Rated RPM1650
Compression22:1
Fuel systemIndirect injection

Transmission Information of Sheppard Diesel, SD-3

Transmission variants 1

TypeGear
Gears8 forward and 2 reverse
ClutchDry disc

Transmission variants 2

Gears8 forward and 2 reverse
  • 8-speed gear
  • 8-speed

Mechanical Specs of Sheppard Diesel, SD-3

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station.
  • Mechanical drum brakes
  • Manual steering
Final drivesSpur gear

Power Information of Sheppard Diesel, SD-3

Rear PTO Type540

Where it sits

With 32 HP, the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 sits between SD-2 (24 HP) and SD-4 (51 HP) in Sheppard Diesel's range. Its power puts it in the 46th percentile of 1940s models in our database (263 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 have?

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 delivers 32 HP.

What years was the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 produced?

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 was produced in 1949-1956.

What engine does the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 have?

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 is powered by a Sheppard Diesel 6E, 3-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 use?

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 uses a Gear transmission.

How much does the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 weigh?

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 weighs 4196 lbs [1903 kg].

Is the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 4WD?

The Sheppard Diesel SD-3 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Sheppard Diesel SD-3 with another model