Introduction
Waterloo Boy Model N: A Historical Standard-Tread Tractor
The Waterloo Boy Model N is an agricultural tractor produced between 1917 and 1924 in Waterloo, Iowa. Manufactured by the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company—which became the John Deere Tractor Company in 1918—this model holds historical significance as the first tractor to undergo the Nebraska tractor testing program.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, two-cylinder engine with a displacement of 465 cubic inches (7.6 liters). Designed to operate on kerosene, the engine produces 27 horsepower at a rated speed of 750 RPM. It utilizes a magneto ignition system and is started manually via a hand-crank mechanism.
Transmission and Drive
The drivetrain features an unsynchronized gear transmission providing two forward speeds and one reverse gear. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a two-wheel drive configuration. The system requires specific oil for lubrication, with a total capacity of 12 quarts (11.4 liters).
Mechanical Specifications and Operator Station
Steering is managed through a manual chain and capstan system, complemented by manual brakes for operator control. The machine features an open operator station equipped with a steel pan seat, with an optional steel canopy available for the period. The total weight of the unit is 6,183 lbs (2,804 kg).
Dimensions and Tires
The Model N measures 132 inches (335 cm) in length, 72 inches (182 cm) in width, and 63 inches (160 cm) in height. It is fitted with agricultural steel wheels, utilizing 28 x 6 front tires and 52 x 12 rear tires, characteristic of the standard-tread design common to the era.
Conclusion
With 21,392 units manufactured, the Waterloo Boy Model N served as a primary workhorse during the early 20th-century transition to mechanized farming. Its design reflects the engineering standards of the pre-John Deere consolidation era and remains a benchmark for early tractor testing protocols.
Production Information of Waterloo Boy, N
- Original price was $1,050 in 1921
- Standard-tread tractor
- The "N" was in production at the Waterloo Engine Company when, in 1918, it became the John Deere Tractor Company. When Nebraska created its tractor testing program, the "N" was the first to be tested.
- Built in Waterloo, Iowa, USA
| Manufacturer | Waterloo Boy (a part of John Deere) |
|---|---|
| Total built | 21,392 |
Dimension and Tires Information of Waterloo Boy, N
| Length | 132 inches [335 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6,183 lbs [2804 kg] |
| Width | 72 inches [182 cm] |
| Height | 63 inches [160 cm] |
| Ag front | 28 x 6 steel |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 52 x 12 steel |
Engine Specifications of Waterloo Boy, N
- Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company
- Liquid-cooled
- Kerosene
- 2-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 4 qts [3.8 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 465 ci [7.6 L] |
| Rated RPM | 750 |
| Bore/Stroke | 6.50x7.00 inches [165 x 178 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 52 qts [49.2 L] |
| Starter type | Hand-crank |
| Firing order | 1-2 |
| Compression | 3.91:1 |
Transmission Information of Waterloo Boy, N
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Type(optional) | 600W |
| Oil type | 600W |
| Gears | 2 forward and 1 reverse |
| Oil capacity | 12 qts [11.4 L] |
Mechanical Specs of Waterloo Boy, N
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station with steel pan seat. Optional steel canopy.
- Manual brakes
| Steering | Manual chain and capstan |
|---|---|
| Steering(optional) | Manual |
Power Information of Waterloo Boy, N
- Https://www.tractordata.com/farm-tractors/000/0/2/22-waterloo-boy-n-tests.html
Electrical System of Waterloo Boy, N
| Charging system | Magneto ignition |
|---|
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 47th percentile of 1910s models in our database (158 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Waterloo Boy N have?
The Waterloo Boy N delivers 27 hp[B] HP.
What years was the Waterloo Boy N produced?
The Waterloo Boy N was produced in 1917-1924.
What engine does the Waterloo Boy N have?
The Waterloo Boy N is powered by a Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company, 2-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Waterloo Boy N use?
The Waterloo Boy N uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.
How much does the Waterloo Boy N weigh?
The Waterloo Boy N weighs 6,183 lbs [2804 kg].
Is the Waterloo Boy N 4WD?
The Waterloo Boy N is available in 2WD.