Caterpillar R2 Tractor

Manufacturer Caterpillar
Price 2,418(USD)
Model R2
Equipment Type Agricultural Crawler Tractors
Factory Peoria, Illinois, USA

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The Caterpillar R2 tractor is equipped with a choice of two gasoline engines: a 4.1L and a 3.6L 4-cylinder option, providing flexibility in power output and fuel efficiency. The larger 4.1L engine may offer more torque for heavy-duty applications, while the 3.6L variant could be more suited for lighter tasks, optimizing fuel consumption. When selecting an engine, consider the balance between operational demands and overall operating costs to achieve the best performance in your specific usage scenario.

Description Caterpillar 4.1L 4-cyl gasoline Caterpillar 3.6L 4-cyl gasoline

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The Caterpillar R2 tractor features a robust 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a displacement of 251ci (4.1L) and a bore/stroke of 4.00x5.00 inches, delivering a good power-to-weight ratio for agricultural applications. The oil bath air cleaner enhances engine longevity by effectively filtering particulates, though it requires regular maintenance. Operating at a rated RPM of 950 may limit its speed but provides strong torque at lower speeds, making it ideal for heavy-duty towing or plowing tasks.

Description Caterpillar gasoline 4-cylinder liquid-cooled Original engine, used on the 5E version
Displacemen 251ci / 4.1L
Bore/Strok 4.00x5.00inches / 102x 127mm
Air cleane oil bath
Rated RP 950

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The Caterpillar R2 tractor features a 3400G gasoline engine with a displacement of 221 cubic inches (3.6L), optimized for mid-range torque at a rated RPM of 1525, making it suitable for moderate farm tasks. Its oil bath air cleaner system enhances engine longevity by ensuring cleaner air intake, although it may necessitate more frequent maintenance compared to dry systems. With coolant and oil capacities of 28 quarts and 12 quarts respectively, the R2 is engineered for sustained operation in demanding conditions, yet these capacities may demand careful monitoring to avoid overheating or lubrication failures during prolonged use.

Description Caterpillar 3400G gasoline 4-cylinder liquid-cooled The 3400G was used on the 4J and 6J versions, which were most R-2 tractors built
Displacemen 221ci / 3.6L
Bore/Strok 3.75x5.00inches / 95x 127mm
Air cleane oil bath
Rated RP 1525
Oil capacit 12qts / 11.4L
Coolant capacit 28qts / 26.5L

CATERPILLAR R2 ENGINES

The Caterpillar R2 tractor is powered by either a 4.1L or 3.6L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, providing flexibility in power and efficiency depending on the workload. Its 20-gallon fuel tank offers extended operation time, ideal for larger tasks or longer fieldwork sessions, but potential downtime for fuel refilling should be considered in high-demand scenarios. The choice of engine displacement may affect torque delivery and fuel economy, thus impacting performance tailored to specific applications.

Description Caterpillar 4.1L 4-cyl gasoline Caterpillar 3.6L 4-cyl gasoline
Fuel tan 20gal / 75.7L

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The Caterpillar R2 tractor features a dual-range transmission with 3-speed gear and 5-speed gear options, providing versatility for various terrain and load conditions. This allows operators to optimize performance for both low-torque tasks and high-speed applications effectively. However, the complexity of managing multiple gear settings may require a learning curve for new operators to reach optimal efficiency.

Description 3-speed gear 5-speed gear

TRANSMISSION 1

The Caterpillar R2 tractor features a three-speed transmission, comprising three forward gears and one reverse, optimized for versatility in various agricultural applications. The limited production of the 5E version until 1938 contributes to its rarity, enhancing its value among collectors and enthusiasts. However, users may find the gear range less suitable for modern heavy-duty operations compared to contemporary tractors with more advanced transmission systems.

Typ gear
Gear 3 forward and 1 reverse
Description The three-speed was used on the 5E version, built in limited quantities until 1938

TRANSMISSION 2

The Caterpillar R2 tractor features a 5-speed forward and 1-speed reverse gear transmission, providing flexibility for various operational tasks. With an oil capacity of 8 quarts (7.6 liters), it ensures optimal lubrication and cooling of the transmission system, which is particularly advantageous in heavy-duty applications. However, the limited number of gears may pose challenges in terrain adaptability, potentially reducing efficiency in steep or varied landscapes compared to tractors with more advanced transmission options.

Typ gear
Gear 5 forward and 1 reverse
Oil capacit 8qts / 7.6L
Description The five speed transmission was used on the R-2 4J and R-2 6J

CATERPILLAR R2 TRANSMISSIONS

The Caterpillar R2 tractor features a 3-speed transmission that provides robust torque delivery for heavy-duty applications, while the 5-speed option enhances versatility and fuel efficiency across varied terrains. The 3-speed gear is advantageous for straightforward, high-torque tasks, whereas the 5-speed gear allows for fine-tuning speed and power output in fluctuating conditions. A potential challenge with the 3-speed transmission may arise in situations requiring precise speed management, making the 5-speed more desirable for operators needing adaptability.

Description 3-speed gear 5-speed gear

MECHANICAL

The Caterpillar R2 is a crawler tractor featuring an open operator station, enhancing operator visibility and accessibility but potentially exposing the operator to environmental factors. Key advantages include superior traction on uneven terrains due to its crawler design, while challenges may arise in adverse weather conditions. Ideal for rugged construction or agricultural applications, the R2 is suited for tasks requiring mobility and stability over soft ground.

Driv crawler
Description Open operator station

CATERPILLAR R2 TRACKS

Widt 13inches / 33cm

DIMENSIONS & TRACKS

Weigh 6350lbs / 2880kg
Description 13-inch tracks

R2 SERIAL LOCATION

Description Serial number plate on the left side of the R-2 engine, below the rear spark plug

BELT PULLEY

Diamete 10.5inches / 26cm
Widt 6.5inches / 16cm
RP 950


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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