Steiger Cougar III ST-250 tractor

Steiger Cougar III ST-250

Power

250 hp

Production

1976-1983

Engine

Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder

Weight

25000 lbs [11340 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

Bearcat III ST-220

Introduction

Steiger Cougar III ST-250: Heavy-Duty 4WD Tractor

The Steiger Cougar III ST-250 is a high-horsepower four-wheel drive tractor produced between 1976 and 1983. Engineered for large-scale agricultural operations, this machine belongs to the Steiger heavy-duty tractor line, known for its articulated chassis and robust pulling capabilities.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a Caterpillar 3306DITA engine, a 10.5-liter, 6-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel unit. Featuring a turbocharger and aftercooler, it generates a rated power of 250 hp (186.4 kW) at 2100 RPM. The engine produces a maximum torque of 860 lb-ft (1166.2 Nm) at 1300 RPM, providing the high lugging ability required for heavy tillage and traction tasks.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The powertrain features a Dana-Spicer 1010-2A transmission paired with a two-speed transfer case. Operators could choose between a 10-speed or a 20-speed configuration, with the latter offering 20 forward and 4 reverse gears to suit various field speeds. Power is transferred to the ground via an articulated four-wheel drive system, with final drives utilizing outboard planetary gears for increased durability under heavy loads.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The hydraulic system utilizes an open-center design with a pump flow capacity of 30.8 gpm (116.6 lpm) at a system pressure of 2250 psi (155.1 bar). The tractor is equipped with 3 to 5 hydraulic valves, allowing for the operation of multiple implements. A Category III rear hitch is available to accommodate heavy-duty farm equipment.

Operator Environment and Dimensions

Standard equipment includes the Safari Cab, which provides the operator with climate control through integrated heating and air conditioning systems. The tractor features a 128-inch wheelbase and weighs approximately 25,000 lbs (11,340 kg) in base shipping configuration, with a maximum weight capacity of 34,000 lbs (15,422 kg). Steering is managed via an articulated power steering system, facilitating maneuverability despite the machine's substantial size.

Conclusion

The Steiger Cougar III ST-250 is a classic example of 1970s and 80s heavy-duty tractor design. Its combination of high-torque Caterpillar power, articulated 4WD traction, and heavy weight makes it a suitable choice for deep tillage, large-acreage cultivation, and heavy-duty pulling tasks where high drawbar performance is essential.

Production Information of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

  • Original price was $50,000 in 1983
  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • Built in Fargo, North Dakota, USA
ManufacturerSteiger

Dimension and Tires Information of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

Wheelbase128 inches [325 cm]
Shipping weight25000 lbs [11340 kg]
Height (exhaust)155.8 inches [395 cm]
Length252 inches [640 cm]
Max weight34000 lbs [15422 kg]
Width96 inches (tractor body) [243 cm]
Ag front23.1-34
Ag rear23.1-34

Engine Specifications of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

  • Caterpillar 3306DITA
  • Liquid-cooled inline
  • 6-cylinder
  • Turbocharged aftercooled diesel
Coolant capacity56 qts [53.0 L]
Oil capacity29 qts [27.4 L]
Air cleanerTwo paper elements
Torque860 lb-ft [1166.2 Nm]
Rated RPM2100
Displacement638 ci [10.5 L]
Power250 hp [186.4 kW]
Compression15:1
Bore/Stroke4.75x6.00 inches [121 x 152 mm]
Starter volts12
StarterElectric
Torque RPM1300

Transmission Information of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

Transmission variants 1

Gears10 forward and 2 reverse

Transmission variants 2

  • Ten-speed transmission with two-speed transfer case.
TransmissionDana-Spicer 1010-2A
Gears20 forward and 4 reverse
Clutch355.6mm hydraulic dry disc
  • 10-speed
  • 20-speed

Mechanical Specs of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Safari Cab standard with heat and air-conditioning.
  • Hydraulic dry disc brakes
  • Articulated power steering
Final drivesOutboard planetary

Power Information of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

  • Https://www.tractordata.com/farm-tractors/001/0/1/1014-steiger-cougar-iii-st-250-tests.html

Hydraulics Specifications of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

TypeOpen center
Pump flow30.8 gpm [116.6 lpm]
Pressure2250 psi [155.1 bar]
Valves3 to 5

Three-Point Hitch of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

Rear Type(optional)III

Electrical System of Steiger, Cougar III ST-250

GroundNegative
Battery volts12
Charging systemAlternator
Charging amps90

Where it sits

With 250 HP, the Steiger Cougar III ST-250 sits just above Bearcat III ST-220 (220 HP) in Steiger's range. Its power puts it in the 94th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Steiger Cougar III ST-250 have?

The Steiger Cougar III ST-250 delivers 250 HP.

What years was the Steiger Cougar III ST-250 produced?

The Steiger Cougar III ST-250 was produced in 1976-1983.

What engine does the Steiger Cougar III ST-250 have?

The Steiger Cougar III ST-250 is powered by a Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

How much does the Steiger Cougar III ST-250 weigh?

The Steiger Cougar III ST-250 weighs 25000 lbs [11340 kg].

Is the Steiger Cougar III ST-250 4WD?

The Steiger Cougar III ST-250 is available in 4WD.

Compare the Steiger Cougar III ST-250 with another model