The Ford 8830, produced between 1990 and 1993, is a powerful and reliable row-crop tractor from Ford’s 8030 Series. Equipped with a robust 6.6L six-cylinder intercooled turbocharged diesel engine, it delivers exceptional performance, making it ideal for heavy-duty farming tasks. Its advanced transmission options, including the 18-speed Funk Ultra Command and 16-speed Dual Power, offer smooth gear shifts and excellent control. Known for its large fuel capacity and high hydraulic flow, the 8830 is well-suited for extended operations. While regular maintenance is crucial to prevent transmission and hydraulic issues, the 8830 remains a trusted choice for demanding agricultural applications.
Overview
Model
Ford 8830
Years
1990 – 1993
Series
8030 Series Row-Crop Tractor
Manufacturer
Ford
Factory
Antwerp, Belgium
Original Price (1993)
$63,000
Engine
Engine
Ford intercooled turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Displacement
401 ci (6.6 L)
Bore/Stroke
4.40 x 4.40 inches (112 x 112 mm)
Compression
15.6:1
Rated RPM
2200
Firing Order
1-5-3-6-2-4
Starter Volts
12
Coolant Capacity
22.8 qts (21.6 L), 24.4 qts (23.1 L) with heater
Intake Valve Clearance
0.014-0.016 inches (cold) (0.356 mm)
Exhaust Valve Clearance
0.017-0.019 inches (cold) (0.432 mm)
Transmission
Transmission Options
18-speed, 16-speed
Gears
18 forward and 9 reverse
Oil Capacity
101.6 qts (96.2 L)
Details
“Allows on-the-move shifting between gears, shuttle shifting without a clutch, and single-lever control for precise movements.”
Gears
16 forward and 4 reverse
Oil Capacity
91.6 qts (86.7 L) for 2WD, 97.1 qts (91.9 L) for 4WD
Details
“Provides a low range to the basic constant mesh transmission, engaged via foot switch while in motion. Indicated by rabbit or turtle display lights on the instrument panel.”
Power
PTO (Claimed)
170 hp (126.8 kW)
Drawbar (Tested)
145.69 hp (108.6 kW)
PTO (Tested)
171.12 hp (127.6 kW)
Mechanical
Chassis
Two- or four-wheel drive
Steering
Power steering
Brakes
Power disc brakes
Operator Station
Optional cab with heat and air-conditioning
Capacity
Fuel Capacity
75 gal (283.9 L), Auxiliary Tank
Steering Capacity
2 qts (1.9 L)
Front Hubs
0.8 qts (each) (0.8 L)
Front Differential
7.9 qts (7.5 L)
Hydraulics
Type
Open center gear pump, dual pumps optional
Pressure
2500 psi (172.4 bar)
Valves
2 to 4
Pump Flow
20 gpm (75.7 lpm), optional 28.6 gpm (108.3 lpm)
SCV Flow
16.9 gpm (64.0 lpm), optional 19 gpm (71.9 lpm)
Steering Capacity
2 qts (1.9 L)
Steering Pressure
2025 psi (139.6 bar)
Tractor Hitch
Rear Type
3/2
Control
Position and draft control
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Independent
Rear PTO Type
1000
Dimensions
Wheelbase
111 inches (281 cm)
Length
191 inches (485 cm)
Width
82 inches (208 cm)
Ground Clearance
16.4 inches (41 cm)
Weight
2WD ROPS
12995 lbs (5894 kg)
2WD Cab
13595 lbs (6166 kg)
4WD ROPS
14200 lbs (6441 kg)
4WD Cab
14800 lbs (6713 kg)
4WD Cab Powershift
15520 lbs (7039 kg)
Height
ROPS
115 inches (292 cm)
Cab
113.8 inches (289 cm)
Exhaust
124.6 inches (316 cm)
Tires
Ag Front (2WD)
11.00-16
Ag Front (4WD)
14.9/13-28
Ag Rear
18.4/15-38
Attachments
Front-End Loader
Available
Serial Numbers
Location
Tractor’s rear axle
1990
A925439
1991
A928924
1992
A930626
1993
A931957
Ford 8830 Overview
The Ford 8830, produced from 1990 to 1993, is the flagship model in Ford’s 8030 Series of row-crop tractors. Built in Antwerp, Belgium, the 8830 is powered by a robust 6.6L six-cylinder intercooled turbocharged diesel engine, delivering up to 170 PTO horsepower. Designed for heavy-duty agricultural tasks, the tractor features advanced transmission options, including an 18-speed Funk Ultra Command and a 16-speed Dual Power constant mesh system. These options provide seamless gear transitions and precise control, making the 8830 versatile across various farming operations.
This model is appreciated for its significant power and capacity, with a large fuel tank of 75 gallons (plus an auxiliary 24.5-gallon tank), enabling extended work hours without frequent refueling. Its hydraulic system supports high flow rates, reaching up to 28.6 gallons per minute with optional dual pumps, ensuring efficient operation of large implements. The rear three-point hitch, rated for heavy loads, and independent 1000 RPM PTO make the 8830 suitable for demanding applications like tillage and large-scale planting.
Despite strengths, the Ford 8830 has some noted challenges. Common issues include transmission wear, particularly in tractors heavily used for high-load tasks, and occasional hydraulic leaks. The Funk Ultra Command transmission, while highly efficient, requires meticulous maintenance to avoid slipping or overheating under prolonged use. Additionally, some users report difficulties with the tractor’s steering under heavy front-end loader operations, which may be resolved by checking hydraulic fluid levels or steering pump performance.
Ford 8830 is a reliable, high-performance tractor suited for large-scale farming. Its powerful engine, advanced transmission options, and high-capacity systems make it a preferred choice for operators requiring a durable and versatile machine. Regular maintenance and attention to known problem areas ensure the 8830 remains a workhorse on the farm for years to come.
