Case DC Tractor

Manufacturer Case
Price 2,600(USD)
Model DC
Equipment Type Row-Crop Tractors
Factory Racine, Wisconsin, USA

VARIANTS

DC-3 narrow front
DC-4 wide-front
DH wide-front without turning brakes

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 340 2

Description Gasoline 4-speed 2WD April 18 - May 4, 1940 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 340 file Drawbar performance Gear 2 used for power test Gear 1 used for pull test
Belt power (max) 37.28hp / 27.8kW
Belt fuel use (max) 3.4gal/hour / 12.9l/hour
Max power 33.06hp / 24.7kW
Max pull 4,128lbs / 1872kg

J.I. CASE DC POWER

Drawbar (claimed) 33hp / 24.6kW
PTO (claimed) 37hp / 27.6kW
Plows 3
Drawbar (tested) 33.06hp / 24.7kW
Belt (tested) 37.28hp / 27.8kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The Case DC tractor is equipped with either a 4.3L 4-cylinder gasoline or liquid propane (LP) gas engine, providing versatility in fuel choice. The gasoline variant offers higher functional power under typical load conditions, while the LP version provides cleaner emissions and reduced fuel volatility, making it environmentally friendlier. A challenge with the LP model can be the availability of refueling infrastructure, although it may lead to lower operational costs in agricultural applications.

Description J.I. Case 4.3L 4-cyl gasoline J.I. Case 4.3L 4-cyl LP gas

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The Case DC tractor features a robust 4-cylinder liquid-cooled gasoline engine with a displacement of 4.3L and a moderate compression ratio of 5.58:1, which may limit power but enhances reliability and fuel efficiency. With a bore and stroke of 98mm x 140mm, this configuration aids in torque delivery at low RPMs, making it suitable for heavy-duty operations such as plowing. However, the oil bath air cleaner requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and reduce engine wear over time.

Description J.I. Case gasoline 4-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 259.5ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 3.875x5.50inches / 98x 140mm
Air cleaner oil bath
Compression 5.58:1
Rated RPM 1100
Coolant capacity 26qts / 24.6L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The Case DC tractor features a 4-cylinder LP gas engine with a 259.5ci (4.3L) displacement, emphasizing fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to gasoline engines. Its bore and stroke measurements (3.875 x 5.50 inches) indicate a torque-oriented design, making it suitable for tasks requiring substantial pulling power. The liquid-cooled system ensures optimal operating temperatures, enhancing longevity but may introduce challenges related to maintenance of the cooling system.

Description J.I. Case LP gas 4-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 259.5ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 3.875x5.50inches / 98x 140mm

J.I. CASE DC ENGINES

The Case DC tractor offers a robust 4.3L four-cylinder engine in both gasoline and LP gas configurations, providing flexibility in fuel choice. The gasoline variant features a larger fuel tank capacity of 19 gallons, which is beneficial for extended operation without refueling, while the LP version holds 17 gallons, making it slightly less efficient for longer tasks. An auxiliary fuel tank of 2 gallons enhances operational versatility, but operators should consider fuel availability and performance implications when selecting between fuel types.

Description J.I. Case 4.3L 4-cyl gasoline J.I. Case 4.3L 4-cyl LP gas
Gas Fuel tank 19gal / 71.9L 17gal / 64.3L (distillate)
Aux. fuel 2gal / 7.6L

TRANSMISSION

The Case DC tractor features a 4-speed forward and 1-speed reverse gear configuration, optimizing its versatility for various field operations. The mechanical wet disc clutch provides effective engagement and smooth operation, but may require more maintenance compared to dry clutches under heavy usage. This setup is ideal for moderate agricultural tasks, offering an excellent balance between power transmission and ease of operation.

Type gear
Gears 4 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch mechanical wet disc

SPEEDS

Description With 9.00-36 rear tires

MECHANICAL

The Case DC tractor features a 4x2 2WD chassis, which provides good maneuverability for light-duty applications but may limit traction on uneven terrain. The manual steering system is straightforward and cost-effective, yet can be demanding during prolonged operation or when navigating tight spaces. The 4-speed gear transmission allows for reasonable speed control, although it may not offer the versatility of a multi-range gearbox, potentially restricting its performance in varied field conditions.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering manual
Cab Open operator station
Transmission 4-speed gear

TRACTOR HITCH

Type Case Eagle Hitch

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO continuous/live*After 1953
Rear RPM 540

J.I. CASE DC TIRES

The Case DC tractor features a robust agricultural front tire size of 25x4 and rear tire size of 48x2.50, both made of steel, providing enhanced durability and load-bearing capacity. The larger rear tire diameter improves traction and stability on uneven terrain, which is advantageous for heavy-duty agricultural applications. However, the steel construction may result in harsher ride quality and less flexibility compared to rubber options, affecting operator comfort over extended use.

Ag front 25x4 (steel)
Ag rear 48x2.50 (steel)

DIMENSIONS

DC3 Wheelbase 88.875inches / 225cm
DC4 Wheelbase 74.5inches / 189cm
DC3 Length 144inches / 365cm
DC4 Length 130inches / 330cm
Width 80.75inches / 205cm
Height (hood) 58inches / 147cm
Weight 5300lbs / 2404kg
DC4 Clearance (front axle) 14inches / 35cm
Clearance (rear axle) 24.75inches / 62cm
Front tread 9.5inches / 24cm
Rear tread 48 to 84inches / 121to 213cm

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Case DC3 tractor, with a wheelbase of 88.875 inches, offers greater stability and better weight distribution for heavy-duty towing and field work compared to the compact DC4 with a 74.5-inch wheelbase, which may provide increased maneuverability in tighter spaces. Weighing 5,300 lbs and equipped with larger rear tires (11.25-36), it excels in traction and can handle rugged terrain, though it may present challenges in transportability and fuel efficiency. Selecting the appropriate model will depend on whether the priority is for heavy hauling or versatility in confined areas.

DC3 Wheelbase 88.875inches / 225cm
DC4 Wheelbase 74.5inches / 189cm
Weight 5300lbs / 2404kg
Front tire 5.50-16
Rear tire 11.25-36

DC SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Serial number plate on the DC's instrument panel, above the steering shaft
1939 4300001
1940 4400001
1941 4500001
1942 4600001
1943 4700001
1944 4800001
1945 4900001
1946 5000001
1947 5100001
1948 5200001
1949 5300001
1950 5400001
1951 5500001
1952 5600001
1953 5700001

BELT PULLEY

Diameter 12.25inches / 31cm
Width 7.25inches / 18cm
RPM 818
Speed 2620ft/min / 798.58meters/min


Last Updated 2025-01-01
Stephen is a passionate tractor hobbyist with a deep-seated love for all things mechanized and agricultural. Growing up in a rural setting, he developed a fascination with these mighty machines that have played a crucial role in shaping the farming industry.

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