
Versatile 946
Power
325 hp
Production
1987-1993
Engine
Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder
Transmission
Constant mesh
Weight
32500 lbs [14742 kg]
Drive
4WD
Introduction
Versatile 946 Four-Wheel Drive Tractor
The Versatile 946 is an articulated four-wheel drive tractor manufactured in Winnipeg, Manitoba, between 1987 and 1993. Positioned for large-scale agricultural operations, it was designed for high-draft power requirements and heavy-duty field tasks.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a Cummins NTA-855-A325, a 14.0-liter, 6-cylinder turbocharged and aftercooled diesel engine. It generates 325 horsepower at a rated speed of 2100 RPM and delivers a maximum torque of 1057 lb-ft at 1400 RPM. The cooling system is liquid-cooled, and the engine utilizes a dry-element air cleaner and ether injection for cold-start assistance.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The Versatile 946 features two transmission options: a 12-speed constant mesh transmission with a 394mm dry disc clutch or a 12-speed full power shift transmission with a 228mm wet disc clutch. The drivetrain is configured for four-wheel drive, utilizing articulated power steering and outboard planetary final drives to manage high power transfer to the ground.
Hydraulics and Hitch
The hydraulic system is a closed-center load-sensing type, providing a pump flow of 24.5 gpm at 2300 psi for implement operation, while the steering circuit operates with a dedicated flow of 26.1 gpm. The rear hitch is a Category IVN/III type, equipped with position control and capable of lifting 13,036 lbs at 24 inches behind the lift point.
Dimensions and Operator Environment
With a wheelbase of 130 inches and an operating weight of 32,500 lbs, the machine is built for significant traction. The operator station consists of a standard cab factory-equipped with air conditioning to ensure comfort during extended field operation. Braking is handled by hydraulic disc brakes.
Conclusion
The Versatile 946 is a robust, high-horsepower articulated tractor engineered for heavy tillage and large-scale cultivation. Its combination of high-torque displacement and multiple transmission configurations makes it suited for challenging field conditions and heavy-duty agricultural applications.
Production Information of Versatile, 946
- Original price was $106,000 in 1993
- Four-wheel Drive (4WD) tractor
- Built in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| Manufacturer | Versatile |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Versatile, 946
| Wheelbase | 130 inches [330 cm] |
|---|---|
| Ground clearance | 16.1 inches [40 cm] |
| Length | 260 inches [660 cm] |
| Weight | 32500 lbs [14742 kg] |
| Ag front | 24.5-32 |
|---|---|
| Ag front(optional) | 20.8x38 |
| Ag front(optional) | 18.4x42 |
| Ag rear | 24.5-32 |
| Ag rear | 18.4x38 |
| Ag rear(optional) | 20.8x42 |
| Ag front | 18.4x38 |
| Ag front(optional) | 30.5x32 |
| Ag front(optional) | 20.8x38 |
| Ag front(optional) | 18.4x42 |
| Ag front(optional) | 30.5x32 |
Engine Specifications of Versatile, 946
- Cummins NTA-855-A325
- Liquid-cooled inline
- Turbocharged aftercooled diesel
- 6-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 39.1 qts [37.0 L] |
|---|---|
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Air cleaner | Dry dry element |
| Coolant capacity | 63.7 qts [60.3 L] |
| Coolant capacity(optional) | Block heater |
| Rated RPM | 2100 |
| Pre-heating | Ether injection |
| Displacement | 855 ci [14.0 L] |
| Power | 325 hp [242.4 kW] |
| Bore/Stroke | 5.50x6.00 inches [140 x 152 mm] |
| Torque RPM | 1400 |
| Torque | 1057 lb-ft [1433.3 Nm] |
| Idle RPM | 1000-2100 |
Transmission Information of Versatile, 946
Transmission variants 1
- Four gears in three ranges, plus reverse range.
| Manufacturer | Versatile |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 21.5 qts [20.3 L] |
| Clutch | 394mm dry disc |
| Type | Constant mesh |
| Gears | 12 forward and 4 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| Type | Full power shift |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 50 qts [47.3 L] |
| Gears | 12 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | 228mm wet disc |
- 12-speed constant mesh
- 12-speed full power shift
Mechanical Specs of Versatile, 946
- Four-wheel drive
- Cab standard with air-conditioning.
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Articulated power steering
| Final drives | Outboard planetary |
|---|
Power Information of Versatile, 946
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 1000 (1.75) |
PTO available only with power shift transmission.
Hydraulics Specifications of Versatile, 946
| Steering press. | 2300 psi [158.6 bar] |
|---|---|
| Type | Closed center load sensing |
| Pump flow | 24.5 gpm [92.7 lpm] |
| Valves | 4 to 5 |
| Capacity | 15.3 gal [57.9 L] |
| Steering flow | 26.1 gpm [98.8 lpm] |
| Pressure | 2400 psi [165.5 bar] |
Steering pump is open center.
Three-Point Hitch of Versatile, 946
| Rear Type | IVN/III |
|---|---|
| Control | Position control |
| Rear lift (at 24"/610mm) | 13036 lbs [5913 kg] |
Electrical System of Versatile, 946
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery CCA | 625 |
| Batteries | 4 |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Charging amps | 90 |
Where it sits
With 325 HP, the Versatile 946 sits between 2310 (310 HP) and 935 (330 HP) in Versatile's range. Its power puts it in the 96th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Versatile 946 have?
The Versatile 946 delivers 325 HP.
What years was the Versatile 946 produced?
The Versatile 946 was produced in 1987-1993.
What engine does the Versatile 946 have?
The Versatile 946 is powered by a Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Versatile 946 use?
The Versatile 946 uses a Constant mesh transmission.
How much does the Versatile 946 weigh?
The Versatile 946 weighs 32500 lbs [14742 kg].
Is the Versatile 946 4WD?
The Versatile 946 is available in 4WD.