Farmall Super MD Tractor

Manufacturer Farmall
Price 5,199(USD)
Model Super MD
Equipment Type Row-Crop Tractors
Factory Rock Island, Illinois, USA

VARIANTS

Super MD-TA Torque Amplifier transmission

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 477 2

Description Diesel 5-speed 2WD July 7 - 11, 1952 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 477 file Drawbar performance Gear 3 used for power test. Gear 1 used for pull test
Belt power (max) 46.73hp / 34.8kW
Belt fuel use (max) 3.4gal/hour / 12.9l/hour
Max power 39.52hp / 29.5kW
Max pull 5772lbs / 2618kg

FARMALL SUPER MD POWER

Drawbar (claimed) 42hp / 31.3kW
PTO (claimed) 47.5hp / 35.4kW
Drawbar (tested) 39.52hp / 29.5kW
Belt (tested) 46.73hp / 34.8kW

ENGINE DETAIL

The Farmall Super MD features a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel engine with a substantial displacement of 264 ci (4.3L), which allows for efficient torque delivery at lower RPMs, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. Its 16.5:1 compression ratio optimizes fuel efficiency and power output, although it may require high-quality diesel and proper maintenance to prevent knocking. The 12-volt starter system ensures reliable ignition, while the 28-quart coolant capacity aids in maintaining optimal operating temperatures, essential for long hours in the field.

Description International Harvester diesel 4-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 264ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 4.00x5.25inches / 102x 133 mm
Compression 16.5:1
Rated RPM 1450
Firing order 1-3-4-2
Starter volts 12
Coolant capacity 28qts / 26.5L

FARMALL SUPER MD ENGINE

The Farmall Super MD is powered by a robust International Harvester 4.3L 4-cylinder diesel engine, offering enhanced torque for heavy-duty applications. Its 20.5-gallon fuel tank provides extended operation time, minimizing downtime during fieldwork. Challenges may include finding replacement parts due to its vintage status, so planning ahead for maintenance is crucial.

Description International Harvester 4.3L 4-cyl diesel
Fuel tank 20.5gal / 77.6L

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The Farmall Super MD features a 5-speed gear transmission coupled with a 10-speed partial power shift, providing a total of 50 gear combinations for versatile field operation. Advantages include improved torque control and better adaptability to various terrain, enhancing fuel efficiency and productivity. However, operators may face a steeper learning curve with the transmission system, necessitating proper training to optimize usage.

Description 5-speed gear/10-speed partial power shift

TRANSMISSION 1

The Farmall Super MD features a 5-speed forward and 1-speed reverse gear system, which enhances maneuverability and precision during fieldwork. Its dry disc clutch provides efficient power transmission but may lead to increased wear under heavy load conditions. Optimal for medium-duty tasks, it excels in versatility but may require more frequent maintenance compared to systems with wet clutches.

Type gear
Gears 5 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch dry disc

TRANSMISSION 2

The Farmall Super MD features an efficient partial power shift transmission with 10 forward and 2 reverse gears, enhancing versatility in various field tasks. The Torque Amplifier allows for instant torque increase when needed, improving performance during demanding operations like plowing or hauling. However, users should maintain the transmission system properly to avoid potential complications related to wear and thermal degradation, especially if operating under heavy loads frequently.

Transmission International Harvester Torque Amplifier
Type partial power shift
Gears 10 forward and 2 reverse
Description The Torque Amplifier first became available in 1954 on the Super MD-TA.

MECHANICAL

The Farmall Super MD's 4x2 2WD chassis offers enhanced maneuverability for smaller farms but may struggle on uneven terrain compared to 4WD models. Its mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, though they may require more maintenance than hydraulic systems. The 5-speed gear combined with a 10-speed partial power shift transmission allows for versatile speed control, which can optimize both field work and transport efficiency, making it well-suited for varied agricultural tasks.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Brakes differential mechanical disc
Cab Open operator station.
Transmissions 5-speed gear/10-speed partial power shift

HYDRAULICS

Type IH Lift-All

TRACTOR HITCH

Type IH Fast Hitch

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear RPM 540

FARMALL SUPER MD TIRES

The Farmall Super MD is equipped with 6.00x16 front and 13.00x38 rear agricultural tires, providing a balance between agility and traction for various field operations. The larger rear tires enhance flotation and soil preservation, making it ideal for heavy tillage or planting in soft soil conditions. However, the narrow front tires may limit stability in uneven terrain, presenting a challenge during transport on rough ground.

Ag front 6.00x16
Ag rear 13.00x38

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 95.75inches / 243cm (tricycle)/99.75inches / 253cm (wide)
Length 141.125inches / 358cm (tricycle)/145.125inches / 368cm (wide)
Width 84.5inches / 214cm *Width to ends of rear axles.
Height (steering wheel) 79inches / 200cm
Ground clearance 18.5inches / 46cm (frame)
Clearance (rear axle) 26.25inches / 66cm
Front tread 57 to 81inches / 144to 205 cm (wide-front)
Rear tread 52 to 88inches / 132to 223 cm

FARMALL SUPER MD WEIGHT

Shipping 5770lbs / 2617kg
Operating 5725lbs / 2596kg
Ballasted 9338lbs / 4235kg

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Farmall Super MD tractor offers a versatile wheelbase, with the tricycle configuration enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces, while the wider wheelbase provides improved stability and traction during heavy-field operations. Weighing between 5725 to 5770 pounds, it balances power and compactness, making it suitable for various tasks, but the weight may limit its usability on softer soils without proper soil compaction management. The tire size (6.00x16 front and 13.00x38 rear) contributes to a favorable ground contact area, optimizing traction and reducing soil compaction but may pose limitations in deep furrowing and heavy load scenarios.

Wheelbase 95.75inches / 243cm (tricycle)/99.75inches / 253cm (wide)
Weight 5725 to 5770 pounds
Front tire 6.00x16
Rear tire 13.00x38

SUPER MD SERIAL NUMBERS

1952 501 (SMDV)
1953 12516 (SMDV)
1954 51995
Final 50464 (SMDV)

ELECTRICAL

Ground positive
Batteries 2
Battery volts 6


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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