Versatile 850 tractor

Versatile 850

Power

280 hp

Production

1973-1977

Transmission

Gear

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

800
900

Introduction

Versatile 850 Four-Wheel Drive Tractor

The Versatile 850 is a heavy-duty four-wheel drive tractor produced by Versatile in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, between 1973 and 1977. Designed for large-scale agricultural operations, this model belongs to the 800 and 900 series, known for their robust construction and traction capabilities.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled inline engine with a displacement of 855 cubic inches (14.0 liters), delivering 280 horsepower (208.8 kW) at a rated speed of 2100 RPM. The engine cooling system has a capacity of 49 quarts (46.4 liters), while the oil system holds 41 quarts (38.8 liters). Maintenance includes oil changes every 200 hours. The engine utilizes a dual dry element air cleaner and an ether injection system to facilitate cold-weather starting.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The machine features a gear-type transmission providing 12 forward and 4 reverse gears, organized into four ranges with three gears each. Power is transferred through a 355.6 mm ceramic disc clutch. The drivetrain is configured for four-wheel drive, utilizing planetary final drives to manage the high torque output required for heavy pulling tasks.

Hydraulics and Steering

The hydraulic system is an open-center design with a pump flow of 20 gallons per minute (75.7 liters per minute) and a system pressure of 2000 psi (137.9 bar). It includes three valves to operate external implements and has a total hydraulic capacity of 23.75 gallons (89.9 liters). The tractor is equipped with articulated power steering, supported by a dedicated steering flow of 24 gallons per minute (90.8 liters per minute) at 1850 psi (127.6 bar).

Dimensions and Operator Environment

The Versatile 850 rests on a 130-inch (330 cm) wheelbase, providing stability for field operations. It has a total length of 253 inches (642 cm) and an exhaust height of 144 inches (365 cm). The operator station is a standard cab, which was available with optional heating and air conditioning to maintain comfort during extended use. Braking is managed by hydraulic disc brakes.

Conclusion

The Versatile 850 is a purpose-built high-horsepower tractor designed for demanding agricultural field work. Its combination of a large-displacement engine, articulated steering, and planetary final drives makes it a reliable choice for heavy traction applications.

Production Information of Versatile, 850

  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
  • Built in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
ManufacturerVersatile

Dimension and Tires Information of Versatile, 850

Wheelbase130 inches [330 cm]
Clearance (drawbar)18 inches [45 cm]
Length253 inches [642 cm]
Height (exhaust)144 inches [365 cm]
Ag front24.5x32
Ag front(optional)30.5x32
Ag front(optional)20.8x38
Ag rear24.5x32
Ag rear(optional)30.5x32
Ag rear18.4x38
Ag front18.4x38

Engine Specifications of Versatile, 850

  • Liquid-cooled inline
Idle RPM900-2300
Displacement855 ci [14.0 L]
Oil capacity41 qts [38.8 L]
Air cleanerDual dry element
Bore/Stroke5.50x6.00 inches [140 x 152 mm]
Oil change200 h
Coolant capacity49 qts [46.4 L]
Starter volts12
Rated RPM2100
Pre-heatingEther injection
Power280 hp [208.8 kW]

Transmission Information of Versatile, 850

Transmission variants 1

  • Three gears, plus reverse, in four ranges.
TypeGear
Gears12 forward and 4 reverse
Clutch355.6mm ceramic disc

Mechanical Specs of Versatile, 850

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Cab standard with available heater and air-conditioning.
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Articulated power steering
Final drivesPlanetary

Power Information of Versatile, 850

Engine280 hp [208.8 kW]

Hydraulics Specifications of Versatile, 850

Steering press.1850 psi [127.6 bar]
TypeOpen center
Pump flow20 gpm [75.7 lpm]
Valves3
Capacity23.75 gal [89.9 L]
Steering flow24 gpm [90.8 lpm]
Pressure2000 psi [137.9 bar]

Three-Point Hitch of Versatile, 850

Rear Type(optional)III

Electrical System of Versatile, 850

GroundNegative
Battery volts12
Batteries2
Charging systemAlternator
Battery AH204
Charging amps58

Where it sits

With 280 HP, the Versatile 850 sits between 800 (250 HP) and 900 (300 HP) in Versatile's range. Its power puts it in the 95th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Versatile 850 have?

The Versatile 850 delivers 280 HP.

What years was the Versatile 850 produced?

The Versatile 850 was produced in 1973-1977.

What transmission does the Versatile 850 use?

The Versatile 850 uses a Gear transmission.

Is the Versatile 850 4WD?

The Versatile 850 is available in 4WD.

Compare the Versatile 850 with another model