The Farmall M is a classic row-crop tractor known for its versatility and long-lasting performance. Produced from 1939 to 1954 by Farmall, a division of International Harvester, it became a staple on farms across the United States and beyond. With various engine options and configurations, the Farmall M was a reliable workhorse, handling a wide range of agricultural tasks. Its enduring popularity among farmers and collectors alike speaks to its enduring legacy in the world of farming equipment.
Farmall M Specs
Production Years
1939 – 1954
Type
Row-Crop tractor
Production
Manufacturer
Farmall (a part of International Harvester)
Made in
Built in Rock Island, Illinois, USA
Total Built
270,140
Original Price
$1,440 (1946), $2,600 (1952)
Variants
MD (diesel engine), MV (high-crop), MDV (diesel high-crop), AM (Australian-built M, built 1949-1954), BM (British-built M), W-6 (standard-front), I-6 (industrial)
Engines Overview
International Harvester
4.1L 4-cyl distillate
International Harvester
4.1L 4-cyl gasoline
Engine Detail
Displacement
247.7 ci (4.1 L)
Bore/Stroke
3.875×5.25 inches (98 x 133 mm)
Compression
4.75:1 (distillate), 4.5:1 (gasoline)
Rated RPM
1,450
Firing Order
1-3-4-2
Oil Capacity
8 qts (7.6 L)
Coolant Capacity
24 qts (22.7 L)
Transmission
Type
Sliding gear
Gears
5 forward and 1 reverse
Farmall M Power
Drawbar (claimed)
25 hp (18.6 kW)
Belt (claimed)
31-33 hp (23.1 kW)
Plows
3 (14-inch)
Drawbar (tested)
33.1 hp (24.7 kW)
PTO (tested)
36.07 hp (26.9 kW)
Belt (tested)
36.66 hp (27.3 kW)
Mechanical
Drive
Two-wheel drive
Steering
Manual
Brakes
Mechanical contracting band brakes
Operator Station
Open
Hydraulics
Type
Lift-All (Early
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear RPM
540 (1.375)
Farmall M Tires
Ag Front
6.00-16
Ag Rear
11-38
Ag Front (Steel)
22.50×4
Ag Rear (Steel)
51×8, 10-38, 12-38, 11.25-36
Dimensions
Wheelbase
88.5 inches (224 cm)
Length
133 inches (337 cm)
Width
84 inches (213 cm)
Height
78.3 inches (198 cm)
Shipping Weight
4,858 lbs (2,203 kg)
Ballasted Weight
6,770 lbs (3,070 kg)
Front Tread
9.125 inches (23 cm)
Rear Tread
52 to 88 inches (132 to 223 cm)
International Harvester 30 Loader
Breakout Force
5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
Breakout Force (at Pin)
1,500 lbs (680 kg)
Height (at Pin)
96 inches (243 cm)
Boom Cylinder Diameter
3.0 inches (7 cm)
Weight
1,270 lbs (576 kg)
Bucket Width
43.5 inches (110 cm)
Farmall M Overview
The Farmall M, manufactured by Farmall, a division of International Harvester, is a historical icon in the world of tractors. Produced from 1939 to 1954, this row-crop tractor was renowned for its ruggedness and versatility. It featured a choice of two engines, one powered by distillate and the other by gasoline, both with a 4-cylinder liquid-cooled vertical I-head design. With its displacement of 4.1 liters, it offered a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for its time.
The Farmall M had a 5-speed sliding gear transmission, providing adequate control and adaptability for various farming tasks. It was equipped with mechanical contracting band brakes and manual steering, reflecting the simplicity of tractor technology during that era. The hydraulics, known as Lift-All, were available with two pressure options, 500 psi in the early models and 800 psi in the later versions, enabling the use of various implements.
In today’s context, the Farmall M serves as a historical relic, showcasing the early innovations in tractor design and manufacturing. Collectors and enthusiasts appreciate it not only for its functionality but also for its significance in the evolution of farming equipment. With its robust build and nostalgic appeal, the Farmall M remains a sought-after model among tractor collectors, providing a glimpse into the rich history of agricultural machinery.
