The Ford 4600, produced from 1975 to 1981, is a versatile and reliable utility tractor renowned for its durability and robust performance. It features a powerful 3-cylinder, 3.3L engine with options for diesel or gasoline fuel. The tractor is equipped with an 8-speed gear transmission and offers independent PTO. Its open center hydraulics and significant rear lift capacity make it ideal for various agricultural tasks. The Ford 4600’s design ensures ease of maintenance and efficient operation, making it a favored choice among farmers for medium to heavy-duty farm work.
| General |
|---|
| Model | Ford 4600 |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Type | Utility tractor |
| Production |
|---|
| Years | 1975-1981 |
| Factory | Basildon, England |
| Engine |
|---|
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Model | 201 |
| Type | 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 3.3L (201 ci) |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.4×4.4 inches (112 x 112 mm) |
| Fuel type | Diesel or gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 16 gal (60.6 L) |
| Power (gross) | 60 hp (44.7 kW) |
| Power (net) | 56.5 hp (42.1 kW) |
| Torque | 160 lb-ft @ 1400 RPM |
| Transmission |
|---|
| Type | 8-speed gear |
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Wheelbase | 84.5 inches (214 cm) |
| Length | 139.6 inches (354 cm) |
| Width | 67 inches (170 cm) |
| Height | 86.6 inches (220 cm) |
| Weight | 4480 to 5880 lbs |
| Hydraulics |
|---|
| Type | Open center |
| Pump flow | 8.5 gpm (32.2 lpm) |
| System pressure | 2500 psi |
| Tractor Hitch |
|---|
| Rear Type | I |
| Rear lift | 3080 lbs (1397 kg) |
| Power Take-off (PTO) |
|---|
| Rear PTO | Independent |
| Rear RPM | 540 RPM |
| Engine RPM | 540 @ 1800 RPM |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Chassis | 4×2 2WD |
| Differential lock | Mechanical rear (optional) |
| Steering | Power steering |
| Brakes | Mechanical wet disc |
| Cab | Open operator station, Cab optional |
| Electrical |
|---|
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging amps | 32 (optional 51) |
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Tires |
|---|
| Front | 7.50-16 |
| Rear | 16.9-30 |
| Serial Numbers |
|---|
| Location | On top-right section of transmission |
| 1975 | C450700 |
| 1976 | C490300 |
| 1977 | C527300 |
| 1978 | C560500 |
| 1979 | C595800 |
| 1980 | C635700 |
| 1981 | C660700 |
Ford 4600 Overview
The Ford 4600, produced from 1975 to 1981, is a highly regarded utility tractor known for its robustness and reliability. With a 3.3L 3-cylinder engine delivering up to 60 hp, this tractor is versatile enough to handle various agricultural tasks. It offers a choice between diesel and gasoline engines, ensuring flexibility for different farming needs. The 8-speed gear transmission and independent PTO provide smooth and efficient operation. The tractor’s open center hydraulic system, with a pump flow of 8.5 gpm, supports a range of implements, making it highly functional.
The Ford 4600 is equipped with mechanical wet disc brakes and power steering, enhancing its maneuverability and safety. The optional cab offers additional comfort for the operator, making long hours in the field more manageable. With a robust build and a rear lift capacity of 3080 lbs, the Ford 4600 can handle heavy-duty tasks, ensuring productivity and efficiency on the farm.
In terms of dimensions, the tractor has a wheelbase of 84.5 inches and a weight ranging from 4480 to 5880 lbs, providing stability and balance during operation. The versatility of this model is further enhanced by the availability of a front-end loader attachment, expanding its utility beyond basic fieldwork to include tasks such as loading and material handling.
Public sources such as TractorData highlight the Ford 4600’s ease of maintenance and durability, making it a favorite among farmers who need reliable performance and minimal downtime. Overall, the Ford 4600 combines power, versatility, and reliability, making it a valuable asset for medium to heavy-duty agricultural operations.
Similar Models
Ford 4000: The predecessor to the 4600, the Ford 4000 offers similar versatility and reliability but with slightly less power and fewer advanced features.
Ford 4610: An upgrade from the 4600, the Ford 4610 includes improvements in power and hydraulics, making it more suitable for intensive farming tasks.
Massey Ferguson 165: Comparable in terms of power and utility, the Massey Ferguson 165 is known for its durability and ease of use in a range of agricultural applications.
John Deere 2040: Another competitor, the John Deere 2040, offers similar power and features, with a strong emphasis on reliability and ease of maintenance.
International Harvester 584: Known for its robust construction and versatility, the International Harvester 584 is a solid alternative with comparable features and performance.
