Versatile 956 tractor

Versatile 956

Power

335 hp

Production

1985

Engine

Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Constant mesh

Weight

36,000 lbs [16329 kg]

Drive

4WD

From the same series:

936
976

Introduction

Versatile 956 Four-Wheel Drive Tractor

The Versatile 956 is a high-horsepower four-wheel drive tractor produced in 1985 at the Versatile manufacturing facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Part of the 900 series, this machine was engineered for heavy-duty agricultural operations requiring significant traction and hydraulic performance.

Engine and Powertrain

The tractor is powered by a 14.0 L (855 ci) Cummins 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. It generates a rated power of 335 hp (249.8 kW) at 2100 RPM. The engine produces a peak torque of 1075 lb-ft (1457.7 Nm) at 1400 RPM, providing the necessary grunt for intensive field work. The cooling system has a capacity of 63.7 quarts, while the lubrication system holds 39.2 quarts of oil.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Versatile offered two transmission configurations for the 956: a 12-speed constant mesh transmission with 4 reverse gears, and a 12-speed full power shift transmission with 2 reverse gears. Power is delivered to all four wheels through an outboard planetary final drive system, ensuring durability under high load conditions.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The tractor features a closed-center, load-sensing hydraulic system designed to operate high-demand implements. The main pump provides a flow of 24.5 gpm (92.7 lpm) at a system pressure of 2400 psi (165.5 bar). The rear hitch is a Category IVN/III system capable of lifting up to 21,700 lbs (9843 kg) at 24 inches behind the lift points.

Dimensions and Operator Environment

The 956 features a 130-inch wheelbase and weighs 24,500 lbs in its base configuration, with a maximum weight capacity of 36,000 lbs. The operator environment includes a standard cab equipped with air conditioning to maintain comfort during extended field operations. Steering is managed by a hydraulic power system operating at 2300 psi.

Conclusion

The Versatile 956 is a robust, high-capacity tractor tailored for large-scale farming operations. Its combination of a high-torque Cummins engine, heavy-duty drivetrain, and load-sensing hydraulics makes it a suitable machine for deep tillage, heavy pulling, and primary cultivation tasks.

Production Information of Versatile, 956

  • Built in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
  • Original price was $97,000 in 1986
ManufacturerVersatile

Dimension and Tires Information of Versatile, 956

Wheelbase130 inches [330 cm]
Max weight36,000 lbs [16329 kg]
Weight24,500 lbs [11113 kg]
Length260 inches [660 cm]
Height (exhaust)139 inches [353 cm]

Engine Specifications of Versatile, 956

  • Cummins
  • Liquid-cooled
  • 6-cylinder
  • Turbocharged diesel
Air cleanerDual dry element
Torque RPM1400
Displacement855 ci [14.0 L]
Bore/Stroke5.50x6.00 inches [140 x 152 mm]
Power335 hp [249.8 kW]
Torque1075 lb-ft [1457.7 Nm]
Rated RPM2100
Coolant capacity63.7 qts [60.3 L]
Oil capacity39.2 qts [37.1 L]
Starter volts12

Transmission Information of Versatile, 956

Transmission variants 1

ManufacturerVersatile
Oil capacity21.5 qts [20.3 L]
TypeConstant mesh
Gears12 forward and 4 reverse

Transmission variants 2

TypeFull power shift
Gears12 forward and 2 reverse
Oil capacity50 qts [47.3 L]
  • 12-speed constant mesh
  • 12-speed full power shift

Mechanical Specs of Versatile, 956

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Cab standard with air-conditioning.
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
Final drivesOutboard planetary
SteeringHydraulic power

Power Information of Versatile, 956

Engine335 hp [249.8 kW]

Hydraulics Specifications of Versatile, 956

Steering press.2300 psi [158.6 bar]
TypeClosed center load sensing
Pump flow24.5 gpm [92.7 lpm]
Valves4 to 4
Capacity14.5 gal [54.9 L]
Steering flow26.1 gpm [98.8 lpm]
Pressure2400 psi [165.5 bar]

Three-Point Hitch of Versatile, 956

Rear TypeIVN/III
Rear lift (at 24"/610mm)21,700 lbs [9843 kg]

Electrical System of Versatile, 956

GroundNegative
Battery CCA625
Batteries4
Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts12
Charging amps90

Where it sits

With 335 HP, the Versatile 956 sits between 936 (310 HP) and 955 (350 HP) in Versatile's range. Its power puts it in the 97th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Versatile 956 have?

The Versatile 956 delivers 335 HP.

What years was the Versatile 956 produced?

The Versatile 956 was produced in 1985.

What engine does the Versatile 956 have?

The Versatile 956 is powered by a Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Versatile 956 use?

The Versatile 956 uses a Constant mesh transmission.

How much does the Versatile 956 weigh?

The Versatile 956 weighs 36,000 lbs [16329 kg].

Is the Versatile 956 4WD?

The Versatile 956 is available in 4WD.

Compare the Versatile 956 with another model