The J.I. Case 430, a hallmark of agricultural innovation from 1960 to 1969, represents a pivotal era in farming mechanization. With diesel and gas variants tailored for diverse applications, including standard-front, row-crop, and industrial use, it epitomizes versatility. Featuring pioneering technologies like the Tripl-Range transmission and Case Eagle Hitch, it ensured enhanced efficiency and productivity on the farm. Today, cherished by collectors and enthusiasts, its enduring design and historical significance make it a prized possession in vintage tractor collections. The Case 430 remains a symbol of the relentless pursuit of excellence in agricultural machinery during its time.
| J.I. Case 430 (1960-1969)Specifications |
|---|
| Model | 430 Series |
| Type | Utility tractor |
| Production Factories | Rock Island, Illinois, USA; Racine, Wisconsin, USA |
| Original Price (1969) | $4,400 |
| Variants |
|---|
| 430 | Standard-front diesel |
| 431 | Row-crop diesel |
| 440 | Standard-front gas |
| 441 | Row-crop gas |
| 445 | Industrial |
| Power |
|---|
| PTO (Claimed) | 34 hp (25.4 kW) |
| Plows | 3 |
| Engine |
|---|
| Type | Diesel, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled overhead valve |
| Displacement | 188.4 ci (3.1 L) |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.8125×4.125 inches (97 x 105 mm) |
| Air Cleaner | Oil bath |
| Compression | 17.5:1 |
| Rated RPM | 1750 |
| Starter Volts | 12 |
| Oil Capacity | 5 qts (4.7 L) |
| Coolant Capacity | 13.5 qts (12.8 L) |
| Transmission Options |
|---|
| 4-speed | unsynchronized gear |
| 12-speed | unsynchronized gear |
| 8-speed | mechanical shuttle |
| Tires |
|---|
| Ag Front | 6.00×16, 7.50×16 |
| Ag Rear | 11×24, 13×24 |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Wheelbase | 75.25 inches (191 cm) |
| Length | 130.2 inches (330 cm) |
| Width | 61.375 inches (155 cm) |
| Height (Hood) | 50.5 inches (128 cm) |
| Shipping Weight | 3125 lbs (1417 kg) |
| Front Tread | 47.5 inches (120 cm) |
| Rear Tread | 48 to 76 inches (121 to 193 cm) |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Drive | Two-wheel drive |
| Steering | Manual steering |
| Brakes | Mechanical band/disc brakes |
| Station | Open operator station |
| Hydraulics |
|---|
| Type | Dual-Control |
| Valves | 1 |
| Pump Flow | 8.5 gpm (32.2 lpm) |
| Tractor Hitch | Rear Type I, Control Draft-o-Matic draft control, Type Case Eagle Hitch |
| Power Take-off (PTO) |
|---|
| Rear PTO | Live, independent* |
| Rear PTO Type | 540, 540/1000 |
| Belt Pulley |
|---|
| Diameter | 10.25 inches (26 cm) |
| Width | 6 inches (15 cm) |
| RPM | 1190 |
|
|---|
| Serial Numbers (Location | Plate on Instrument Panel) |
| Serial Numbers (Location: Plate on Instrument Panel) |
|---|
| 1960 | 6144001 |
| 1961 | 6162601 |
| 1962 | 8190001 |
| 1963 | 8208001 |
| 1964 | 8229001 |
| 1965 | 8253501 |
| 1966 | 8279001 |
| 1967 | 8306501 |
| 1968 | 8332101 |
| 1969 | 8356251 |
J.I. Case 430 overview
The J.I. Case 430 holds a significant place in tractor history, epitomizing the transition from traditional farming methods to mechanization. Produced from 1960 to 1969, it emerged during a transformative period in agriculture, marked by the widespread adoption of tractors on farms across America.
As a historical model, the Case 430 embodies the essence of utility and reliability. Its diesel and gas variants catered to diverse agricultural needs, from standard-front to row-crop configurations, and even industrial applications. Pioneering features such as the Tripl-Range transmission and Case Eagle Hitch showcased Case’s commitment to innovation and efficiency.
In today’s context, the Case 430 remains a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its enduring design, coupled with robust construction, makes it a standout in vintage tractor collections. The nostalgia associated with its distinct styling and pioneering technology adds to its allure, making it a sought-after piece of agricultural heritage.
From a technical perspective, the specifications of the Case 430 reflect the state-of-the-art tractor technology of its time. Its diesel engine, with an oil bath air cleaner and a compression ratio of 17.5:1, represented cutting-edge powerplant design for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. The transmission options, including the innovative Tripl-Range and Dual-Range Shuttle, provided farmers with unprecedented versatility and ease of use in the field.
The mechanical band/disc brakes, manual steering, and open operator station underscored the rugged simplicity of early tractor designs, prioritizing functionality and durability over creature comforts. Yet, the inclusion of features like the Case Eagle Hitch and live, independent PTO highlighted Case’s commitment to enhancing productivity and operator convenience.
Overall, the J.I. Case 430 stands as a testament to the evolution of agricultural machinery, embodying the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and enduring legacy of one of America’s most iconic tractor manufacturers.
