| Manufacturer |
Case |
| Price |
2,100(USD) |
| Model |
20-40 |
| Equipment Type |
Standard-Tread Tractors |
| Factory |
Racine, Wisconsin, USA |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 7
| Description |
1082ci kerosene 2-speed 2WD/April 10 - May 7, 1920/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 7 file/Drawbar performance |
| Belt power (max) |
42.80 hp/31.9 kW |
| Belt fuel use (max) |
7.7 gal/hour/29.1 l/hour |
| Max power |
24.66 hp/18.4 kW |
| Max pull |
5,537 lbs/2511 kg |
J.I. CASE 20-40 POWER
| Drawbar (claimed) |
20 hp/14.9 kW |
| Belt (claimed) |
40 hp/29.8 kW |
| Drawbar (tested) |
24.66 hp/18.4 kW |
| Belt (tested) |
42.80 hp/31.9 kW |
ENGINES OVERVIEW
The Case 20-40 tractor features multiple engine options: a 12.4L, 14.8L, and 17.7L 2-cylinder kerosene engine, providing varied power outputs for different agricultural tasks. The kerosene fuel system can offer higher thermal efficiency but may require preheating for optimal cold starts. Key considerations include the tractor's balance of power versus fuel consumption and the necessity for suitable maintenance protocols specific to kerosene engines, particularly in colder climates.
| Description |
J.I. Case 12.4L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 14.8L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 17.7L 2-cyl kerosene |
ENGINE DETAIL 1
The Case 20-40 tractor features a robust 12.4 L kerosene engine with a significant displacement of 755 ci, demonstrating substantial torque potential for agricultural tasks of its era. Its 7.75 x 8.00-inch bore and stroke design indicates a focus on low-end torque, ideal for pulling heavy implements. However, the hand-crank starter can be a challenge for operators accustomed to modern electronic starting systems, making it less user-friendly in harsh conditions or for prolonged operation.
| Description |
J.I. Case/kerosene/2-cylinder/liquid-cooled opposed-twin/The original engine, was used on the first model 40 tractors produced in 1912. |
| Displacement |
755 ci/12.4 L |
| Bore/Stroke |
7.75x8.00 inches/197 x 203 mm |
| Rated RPM |
450 |
| Starter type |
hand-crank |
ENGINE DETAIL 2
The Case 20-40 tractor, featuring an 8-inch bore opposed-twin engine with a displacement of 904 ci, is designed for efficient power delivery at a low rated RPM of 475. Its hand-crank starter may pose a challenge in terms of operator convenience, particularly in cold weather or at high elevations. However, the substantial coolant capacity of 112 qts allows for effective thermal management, ensuring optimal engine performance during prolonged operation.
| Description |
J.I. Case/kerosene/2-cylinder/liquid-cooled opposed-twin/The 8-inch bore engine replaced the original engine early in production, at the end of 1912. |
| Displacement |
904 ci/14.8 L |
| Bore/Stroke |
8.00x9.00 inches/203 x 229 mm |
| Rated RPM |
475 |
| Starter type |
hand-crank |
| Coolant capacity |
112 qts/106.0 L |
ENGINE DETAIL 3
The Case 20-40 tractor features a robust 1082 cubic inch displacement liquid-cooled 2-cylinder kerosene engine, ideally suited for agricultural tasks requiring consistent torque at low RPMs (475). Despite a significant displacement increase of 20% with the final 8.75-inch bore engine, Case opted not to re-rate the horsepower, which may challenge users expecting improved performance metrics. The hand-crank starter may pose usability issues compared to modern electric systems, especially in cold conditions, impacting overall operational efficiency.
| Description |
J.I. Case/kerosene/2-cylinder/liquid-cooled/The final, 8.75-inch bore, engine replaced the 8-inch around 1916. Case did not re-rate the horsepower of the tractor, despite a 20% increase in displacement. |
| Displacement |
1082 ci/17.7 L |
| Bore/Stroke |
8.75x9.00 inches/222 x 229 mm |
| Rated RPM |
475 |
| Starter type |
hand-crank |
J.I. CASE 20-40 ENGINES
The Case 20-40 tractor features robust 12.4L, 14.8L, and 17.7L two-cylinder kerosene engines, offering versatility for various agricultural tasks. With a significant fuel capacity of 42 gallons, it ensures extended operational periods between refueling, advantageous for large-scale farming. However, potential challenges include the need for kerosene fuel, which might limit availability compared to diesel alternatives in some regions.
| Description |
J.I. Case 12.4L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 14.8L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 17.7L 2-cyl kerosene |
| Fuel tank |
42 gal/159.0 L |
TRANSMISSION
The Case 20-40 tractor features a gear-type transmission with 2 forward gears and 1 reverse, allowing for straightforward operation and efficient power delivery for various farming tasks. The limited gear selection may restrict versatility on steep inclines or in highly variable terrain, making it less suited for complex applications. However, its simplicity can be advantageous for basic fieldwork or small farm operations, where ease of use and maintenance are prioritized.
| Transmission |
J.I. Case |
| Type |
gear |
| Gears |
2 forward and 1 reverse |
SPEEDS
MECHANICAL
The Case 20-40 tractor features a 4x2 two-wheel drive chassis, which provides simplicity and ease of maintenance but limits traction on uneven terrain compared to 4WD models. Its manual steering may require more physical effort from the operator, especially during prolonged use, while the open operator station enhances visibility but offers less protection from the elements. The 2-speed gear transmission allows for versatility in speed management, making it suitable for various agricultural tasks, though it may lack the advanced features found in modern hydrostatic transmissions.
| Chassis |
4x2 2WD |
| Steering |
manual |
| Cab |
Open operator station. Optional four-post steel cab. |
| Transmission |
2-speed gear |
J.I. CASE 20-40 TIRES
The Case 20-40 tractor features an agricultural front tire specification of 38x8, which provides excellent traction and stability during field operations, while the rear tire size of 66x20 enhances load-bearing capacity and reduces soil compaction. One advantage of the larger rear tires is improved comfort on uneven terrain, but challenges include reduced maneuverability in tight spaces. This setup is ideal for medium-duty farming applications, where stability and traction are critical.
| Ag front |
38x8 steel |
| Ag rear |
66x20 steel |
DIMENSIONS
| Length |
177 inches/449 cm |
| Width |
100 inches/254 cm |
| Height |
107 inches/271 cm |
| Operating weight |
13,900 lbs/6305 kg |
| Rear axle |
3.94 inch diameter/100 mm |
DIMENSIONS & TIRES
The Case 20-40 tractor, with a weight of 13,900 lbs (6305 kg), demonstrates substantial stability for heavy-duty tasks. Its large rear tires (66x20) provide excellent traction and aid in weight distribution, making it suitable for plowing and cultivating rough terrains. However, the relatively narrower front tires (38x8) may pose challenges in steering and might require careful handling during tight maneuvers.
| Weight |
13,900 lbs/6305 kg |
| Front tire |
38x8 |
| Rear tire |
66x20 |
20-40 SERIAL NUMBERS
| Location |
Serial number plate on left side of tractor frame, above the front axle. |
BELT PULLEY
| Diameter |
24 inches/60 cm |
| Width |
8.5 inches/21 cm |
