Farmall 656 Tractor

Manufacturer Farmall
Price -
Model 656
Equipment Type Row-Crop Tractors
Factory

VARIANTS

656HC high-clear

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 909 2

Description Gasoline Torque Amplifier 2WD September 9 - 17, 1965 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 909 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 3-Direct used for power test Gear 2-TA used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 63.85hp / 47.6kW
Fuel use 5.2gal/hour / 19.7l/hour
Max power 53.23hp / 39.7kW
Max pull 7,486lbs / 3395kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 912 2

Description Diesel Torque Amplifier 2WD September 16 - 23, 1965 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 912 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 3-Direct used for power test Gear 2-TA used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 61.52hp / 45.9kW
Fuel use 4.2gal/hour / 15.9l/hour
Max power 52.98hp / 39.5kW
Max pull 7,500lbs / 3402kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 967 2

Description Diesel hydrostatic 2WD October 31 - November 29, 1967 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 967 file PTO performance Drawbar performance/Gear 4 mph used for power test Gear 2.5 mph used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 66.06hp / 49.3kW
Fuel use 5.4gal/hour / 20.4l/hour
Power at rated PTO speed 62.18hp / 46.4kW
Max power 50.50hp / 37.7kW
Max pull 7,558lbs / 3428kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 968 2

Description Gasoline hydrostatic 2WD October 31 - November 29, 1967 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 968 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 4 mph used for power test Gear 2.3 mph used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 65.8hp / 49.1kW
Fuel use 6.4gal/hour / 24.2l/hour
Power at rated PTO speed 60.81hp / 45.3kW
Max power 50.09hp / 37.4kW
Max pull 7,587lbs / 3441kg

FARMALL 656 POWER

PTO (claimed) 63hp / 47.0kW
Plows 4-5
Drawbar (tested) 53.23hp / 39.7kW
PTO (tested) 66.06hp / 49.3kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The Farmall 656 tractor is equipped with a robust International Harvester engine lineup, offering flexibility through a 4.6L 6-cyl diesel or a 4.3L variant in gasoline and LP gas. The diesel engine provides superior torque and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications, while the gasoline and LP options may appeal to users preferring lighter loads or easier starting. Consider fuel availability and operating environment when selecting the engine type, as diesel is typically more efficient for extended operations, whereas gasoline and LP may offer lower initial costs and easier maintenance.

Description International Harvester 4.6L 6-cyl diesel International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl gasoline International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl LP gas

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The Farmall 656 features a robust D-282 diesel engine with a displacement of 4.6L, providing substantial torque at lower RPMs, suitable for various agricultural tasks. The dry air cleaner enhances engine longevity, while the high compression ratio of 17.6:1 optimizes fuel efficiency and power output, especially beneficial for heavy-duty farming scenarios. Key maintenance considerations include monitoring oil and coolant capacities—9 quarts of oil and 21.5 quarts of coolant—to prevent overheating and ensure smooth operation.

Description International Harvester D-282 diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 282ci / 4.6L
Bore/Stroke 3.6875x4.39inches / 94x 112mm
Air cleaner dry
Compression 17.6:1
Rated RPM 1800 (early)/2300 (later)
Firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
Starter volts 12
Oil capacity 9 qts /8.5 L
Coolant capacity 21.5qts / 20.3L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The Farmall 656 features a robust International Harvester C-263 gasoline engine with a displacement of 263 cubic inches, offering a good balance of power and efficiency at a rated RPM of 1800, ideal for moderate fieldwork. Its dry air cleaner minimizes maintenance but may lead to reduced efficiency in dusty conditions, while a compression ratio of 7.6:1 provides adequate performance for most farming tasks. With an oil capacity of 9 quarts and a coolant capacity of 20.5 quarts, regular servicing is essential for maintaining optimal performance and longevity, particularly in high-load scenarios.

Description International Harvester C-263 gasoline 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 263ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 3.5625x4.39inches / 90x 112mm
Air cleaner dry
Compression 7.6:1
Rated RPM 1800
Starter volts 12
Oil capacity 9 qts /8.5 L
Coolant capacity 20.5qts / 19.4L

ENGINE DETAIL 3

The Farmall 656, featuring the C-263 LP gas engine, has a displacement of 263ci (4.3L), providing a good balance of power and efficiency for various agricultural tasks. Its compression ratio of 8.8:1 and rated RPM of up to 2300 enhance fuel efficiency while maintaining adequate torque for heavy loads. Key considerations include the dry air cleaner system, which may necessitate more frequent maintenance, and the relatively low oil and coolant capacities, potentially impacting service intervals and overheating risks in high-demand scenarios.

Description International Harvester C-263 LP gas 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 263ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 3.5625x4.39inches / 90x 112mm
Air cleaner dry
Compression 8.8:1
Rated RPM 1800 (early)/2300 (late)
Starter volts 12
Oil capacity 9 qts /8.5 L
Coolant capacity 21qts / 19.9L

FARMALL 656 ENGINES

The Farmall 656 tractor offers versatility with its engine options: a 4.6L diesel or two 4.3L gasoline/LP gas versions, providing flexibility depending on fuel availability and cost-effectiveness. Its fuel tank capacities of 33 gallons for gas/diesel and 39 gallons for LP gas enhance operational range, although LP gas may have limited availability in some regions. Consider having access to appropriate fuel types as well as the potential for higher operating costs with gasoline engines when planning for diverse farming tasks.

Description International Harvester 4.6L 6-cyl diesel International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl gasoline International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl LP gas
Fuel tank 33gal / 124.9L (gas/diesel) 39gal / 147.6L (LP gas)

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The Farmall 656 features a 5-speed or optional 10-speed transmission, enabling versatility in various field operations and road transport scenarios. The 10-speed provides finer control over speed and power management, which is advantageous for tasks like tilling or planting, but may complicate operation for less experienced users. Additionally, its robust engine and build quality enhance durability, but owners should be aware of potential maintenance challenges with the more complex transmission system.

Description 5-speed 10-speed

TRANSMISSION 1

The Farmall 656 features a straightforward 5-speed forward and 1-speed reverse transmission, providing adequate versatility for various farming tasks. With an oil capacity of 68 quarts (64.4 liters), it ensures optimal lubrication and cooling, which is critical for maintaining performance under heavy loads. However, the limited number of gears may challenge operations requiring fine speed adjustments, potentially impacting efficiency in more diverse farming applications.

Transmission gear
Gears 5 forward and 1 reverse
Oil capacity 68qts / 64.4L

SPEEDS 1

Description With 15.5-38 rear tires

TRANSMISSION 2

The Farmall 656 features a Torque Amplifier transmission which enhances torque delivery, allowing for more efficient performance in varying field conditions. With 10 forward and 2 reverse gears, this tractor offers versatile speed options for different agricultural tasks, improving productivity but potentially complicating operation for less experienced users. Its oil capacity of 68 quarts ensures adequate lubrication for extended use, although regular maintenance of oil levels is essential to prevent transmission wear.

Transmission Torque Amplifier
Gears 10 forward and 2 reverse
Oil capacity 68qts / 64.4L

SPEEDS 2

Description With 15.5-38 rear tires

TRANSMISSION 3

The Farmall 656 features a hydrostatic transmission allowing for infinite speed adjustment within its two ranges, facilitating precise control during operations such as tilling or mowing. The hydrostatic system provides seamless forward and reverse shifting, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces but may have increased maintenance needs compared to mechanical transmissions. This setup is ideal for diverse farming tasks where variable speed and instant responsiveness are crucial.

Transmission hydrostatic
Gears infinite (2-range) forward and reverse

MECHANICAL

The Farmall 656 features a 4x2 2WD chassis, which enhances maneuverability in flat terrain but may struggle in slippery conditions or uneven ground. Its hydrostatic power steering provides excellent control and reduces operator fatigue, while the independent mechanical disc brakes offer reliable stopping power but require regular maintenance. The availability of a 5-speed and 10-speed transmission allows for versatile speed adjustment, making it suitable for various tasks, though it may limit power output in high-gear scenarios.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering hydrostatic power
Brakes independent mechanical disc
Cab Open operator station
Transmissions 5-speed 10-speed

HYDRAULICS

Total flow 12gpm / 45.4lpm

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type 2/1
Type IH Fast Hitch

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO independent
Rear RPM 540/1000
Engine RPM 1000@1800

FARMALL 656 TIRES

The Farmall 656 features a wide stance with 6.00-16 front tires and robust 15.5-38 rear tires, providing enhanced stability and traction on uneven terrain. Its tire configuration allows for efficient power transfer during field operations, but the large rear tires may limit maneuverability in tighter

Ag front 6.00-16
Ag rear 15.5-38

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 96.3inches / 244cm
Length 152inches / 386cm
Width 87inches / 220cm
Height (steering wheel) 77inches / 195cm
Clearance (front axle) 21inches / 53cm
Clearance (drawbar) 13inches / 33cm
Front tread 16inches / 40cm
Rear tread 50 to 96inches / 127to 243 cm

FARMALL 656 WEIGHT

Shipping 6,250lbs / 2835kg (gasoline) 6,430lbs / 2916kg (LP gas) 6,520lbs / 2957kg (diesel)
Operating 7,230lbs / 3279kg (diesel)
Ballasted 9,235lbs / 4188kg

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Farmall 656 tractor features a wheelbase of 96.3 inches, offering stability during operation, particularly in fieldwork. Weighing between 6250 to 7230 pounds, it provides adequate traction for various tasks, but may require careful consideration of soil compaction in certain scenarios. Equipped with front tires of 6.00-16 and rear tires of 15.5-38, it balances maneuverability with power, making it suitable for medium-sized farms and diverse agricultural applications.

Wheelbase 96.3inches / 244cm
Weight 6250 to 7230 pounds
Front tire 6.00-16
Rear tire 15.5-38

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 2001 LOADER 1

Description Single-acting lift cylinders
Loader weight 1160lbs / 526kg
Height (to pin) 148.5inches / 377cm
Clearance, dumped bucket 98inches / 248cm
Breakout force (lift) 4000lbs / 1814kg
Lift to full height (at pin) 2000lbs / 907kg
Bucket width 40inches / 101cm

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 2001 LOADER 2

Description Double-acting lift cylinders
Loader weight 1160lbs / 526kg
Height (to pin) 148.5inches / 377cm
Clearance, dumped bucket 98inches / 248cm
Breakout force (lift) 2600lbs / 1179kg
Lift to full height (at pin) 1350lbs / 612kg
Bucket width 40inches / 101cm

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 2000 LOADER

Loader weight 1417lbs / 642kg
Height (to pin) 125inches / 317cm
Clearance, dumped bucket 105inches / 266cm
Rollback angle 18°
Breakout force (lift) 4000lbs / 1814kg
Lift to full height (at pin) 2000lbs / 907kg
Bucket width 48inches / 121cm 60inches / 152cm

656 SERIAL NUMBERS

1965 8501
1966 15505
1967 24372
1968 32007
1969 38861
1970 42518
1971 45497
1972 47951

ELECTRICAL

Charging amps 55
Batteries 1 (gas/LP) / 2 (diesel)
Battery volts 12 (gas/LP) / 6 (diesel)
Battery AH 50 (gas)/60 (LP) / 130 (diesel)


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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