The Ford 7740 is a versatile row-crop tractor from the PowerStar 40 Series, produced between 1991 and 1995. Built in Basildon, England, it offers a turbocharged 5.0L diesel engine and a variety of transmission options, including mechanical and advanced electro-hydraulic configurations. Known for its strong hydraulics, comfortable cab options, and reliable power output, the 7740 suits a wide range of field tasks from cultivation to loader work. Available in both 2WD and 4WD versions, it remains a practical and durable choice for medium-scale farms seeking performance with ease of maintenance.
4 gears in 2 ranges (Low/High), optional creeper adds 3rd range
Dual Power type
16-speed two-speed power shift
Dual Power gears
16 forward 4 reverse
Dual Power clutch
Dry disc
Dual Power oil capacity
69.6 qts (65.9 L)
Dual Power notes
Power shift between direct and low, activated by dash switch
SynchroShift type
12-speed synchronized
SynchroShift gears
12 forward 12 reverse
SynchroShift clutch
Dry disc
SynchroShift notes
4 gears in 3 ranges (L/M/H), shuttle lever, dual power optional for 24 speeds
ElectroShift type
16-speed four-speed power shift
ElectroShift gears
16 forward 16 reverse
ElectroShift oil capacity
64 qts (60.6 L)
ElectroShift notes
2 synchronized ranges, 2 gear groups (1-4 and 5-8), push-button shift and declutch
Power
Engine (Gross)
100.3 hp (74.8 kW)
Engine (Net)
95 hp (70.8 kW)
PTO (Claimed)
86 hp (64.1 kW)
PTO (Tested)
86.96 hp (64.8 kW)
Drawbar (Tested)
76.93 hp (57.4 kW)
PTO
Rear PTO
Independent
PTO Type
540/1000 RPM
Engagement
Mechanical
Hydraulics
Type
Open center (S/SL), Closed center load sensing (SLE)
Valves
1 to 4
Pump Flow
17.4 gpm (65.9 lpm), 20 gpm (75.7 lpm) on SLE
Steering Pressure
2100 psi (144.8 bar)
3-Point Hitch
Category
II
Control
Position control and top-link draft sensing
Rear Lift Capacity (Standard)
6,210 lbs (2816 kg)
Rear Lift Capacity (Optional)
8,240 lbs (3737 kg)
Rear Lift Capacity (SLE)
6,564 lbs (2977 kg)
Rear Lift Capacity (SLE Optional)
8,710 lbs (3950 kg)
Chassis
Drive
4×2 2WD or 4×4 MFWD 4WD (optional)
Final Drives
Inboard planetary
Differential Lock
Mechanical (S), Electro-hydraulic (SL/SLE)
Steering
Power
Brakes
Mechanical (S), Hydraulic wet disc (SL/SLE)
Cab
Two-post foldable ROPS, Comfort Command Cab optional with air-conditioning (SL/SLE)
Dimensions
Wheelbase
93 inches (236 cm)
Length
162 inches (411 cm)
Width (2WD)
77 inches (195 cm)
Width (4WD)
80 inches (203 cm)
Ground Clearance (2WD)
22 inches (55 cm)
Ground Clearance (4WD)
20 inches (50 cm)
Height (Hood)
67 inches (170 cm)
Height (Cab)
107 inches (271 cm)
Height (Exhaust)
112 inches (284 cm)
Weight
2WD ROPS Shipping
7,312 lbs (3316 kg)
4WD ROPS Shipping
8,146 lbs (3695 kg)
2WD Cab Shipping
8,179 lbs (3709 kg)
4WD Cab Shipping
9,194 lbs (4170 kg)
Operating Weight (4WD ROPS)
8,680 lbs (3937 kg)
Ballasted Weight
11,460 lbs (5198 kg)
Electrical
Ground
Negative
Charging System
Alternator
Charging Amps (ROPS)
55
Charging Amps (Cab)
100
Batteries (ROPS)
1
Batteries (Cab)
2
Battery CCA
800
Battery Volts
12
Tires
Front (Ag)
7.50-16
Rear (Ag)
18.4-30
Ford 7740 Tractor Overview
The Ford 7740 is a mid-range row-crop tractor produced between 1991 and 1995 as part of the PowerStar 40 Series. Built at Ford’s Basildon factory in England, the 7740 was engineered to meet the evolving needs of modern mixed-use farms in the 1990s. It offered a balance between mechanical simplicity and emerging electronic innovations, and it was positioned as a versatile workhorse capable of handling everything from loader work and haymaking to plowing and light tillage. Available in several configurations—S, SL, and SLE—the 7740 catered to farmers with varying expectations of performance, cost, and technology.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Ford 7740 is powered by a 5.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder Genesis diesel engine. This engine was praised for its torque-rich performance, peaking at 413 lb-ft at just 1200 RPM, making it ideal for heavy drawbar tasks and PTO work. Producing up to 100 hp gross, the engine delivered strong field performance while remaining fuel-efficient and reliable. It featured a modern rotary injection pump (Lucas CAV DP200) and dual paper air filters, enhancing durability in dusty environments. Many owners commend its cold-starting ability and long service intervals. The Genesis engine platform later became a cornerstone in larger New Holland models, reinforcing its reputation for toughness.
Transmission Options
One of the Ford 7740’s standout qualities is its broad range of transmission options, each tailored to different farming styles and preferences. The base model, 7740S, came with an 8-speed EconoShift constant mesh transmission—simple, tough, and cost-effective. SL models offered the 12-speed SynchroShift with shuttle and optional Dual Power, giving smoother range transitions and better maneuverability. The top-tier SLE variant featured ElectroShift, a 16×16 four-speed power shift with electronic push-button control and clutchless shuttle—ideal for loader work or frequent gear changes. While early ElectroShift versions occasionally required electrical calibration or minor repairs, most were praised for their user-friendly design and long-term reliability when maintained properly.
Hydraulics and PTO
Hydraulic capabilities on the 7740 were another highlight. Standard S and SL models used open-center hydraulics, while SLE versions were equipped with a closed-center load-sensing system. With up to 4 remote valves and lift capacities exceeding 8,000 lbs (optional), the 7740 could easily handle large implements, loaders, or trailers. Rear PTO was independent and available in 540/1000 RPM configurations, making it adaptable for various powered equipment. ElectroShift versions even included electronic lower-link sensing for more accurate draft control.
Operator Environment
The 7740 came standard with a foldable ROPS and was available with the Comfort Command cab on SL and SLE models. These cabs offered good visibility, logical control layout, and an effective HVAC system, giving the operator a comfortable working environment throughout long days in the field. While the base S model had a straddle-mount platform, SL and SLE models featured a raised deck that made entry and control access easier. Noise levels were relatively low for its time, and modern conveniences such as push-button de-clutching and shuttle shifting on the SLE added significant productivity advantages.
Common Issues
Over time, several issues have surfaced based on user feedback from forums and service manuals. The ElectroShift system, while advanced for its time, occasionally suffered from wiring faults, worn solenoids, or control module glitches—especially if machines were not regularly serviced or had been exposed to moisture. Some operators reported hydraulic leaks from aging seals, particularly on machines with high loader usage. The mechanical linkages in early 8-speed or Dual Power models could also wear, making shifting more difficult. However, these problems were not widespread and were typically repairable with basic mechanical knowledge or dealer support.
Advantages
– Durable and powerful Genesis engine
– Multiple transmission options to suit different needs
– Excellent hydraulic system, especially in SLE models
– Comfortable and ergonomic cab layout
– Strong lift capacity and PTO performance
– Well-balanced between technology and serviceability
Disadvantages
– Electrical issues in early ElectroShift models
– Higher maintenance complexity in SLE variants
– Transmission shift stiffness in older base models
– Aging components in used units may require reconditioning
The Ford 7740 remains a respected and capable tractor, especially for farmers looking for a reliable mid-range machine with strong mechanical engineering and selective modern features. Its engine, versatility, and comfort made it a favorite in its class, while its adaptability to different transmission styles allowed it to fit a wide variety of farming operations. Today, the 7740 continues to work reliably in the field, and with proper maintenance, it represents one of the most balanced tractors of the 1990s—a machine that bridged the mechanical era with the early days of smart farming.