Ferguson TO-30 Tractor

Manufacturer Ferguson
Price -
Model TO-30
Equipment Type Utility Tractors
Factory Detroit, Michigan

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 466 2

Description Gasoline 4-speed 2WD October 5 - 11, 1951 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 466 file Drawbar performance Gear 2 used for power test Gear 1 used for pull test
Belt power (max) 29.32hp / 21.9kW
Belt fuel use (max) 2.7gal/hour / 10.2l/hour
Max power 24.37hp / 18.2kW
Max pull 2,994lbs / 1358kg

FERGUSON TO-30 POWER

Drawbar (claimed) 19hp / 14.2kW
PTO (claimed) 28hp / 20.9kW
Drawbar (tested) 24.37hp / 18.2kW
Belt (tested) 29.32hp / 21.9kW

ENGINE DETAIL

The Ferguson TO-30 features a Continental Z-129 engine with a modest displacement of 2.1L, delivering 107 lb-ft of torque at 1100 RPM, highlighting its suitability for low to moderate power applications such as crop cultivation and light hauling. With a compression ratio of 6.5:1 and an updraft Marvel Schebler carburetor, it offers good fuel efficiency but may lack the power for heavy implement work compared to modern tractors. The 6V electrical system and oil bath air cleaner emphasize simplicity and reliability, although maintenance could be challenged by the limited power output and lower RPM range.

Description Continental Z-129 gasoline 4-cylinder 8-valve liquid-cooled I-head
Displacement 129ci / 2.1L
Bore/Stroke 3.25x3.875inches / 83 x 98mm
Fuel system Marvel Schebler TSX 458 updraft carburetor
Air cleaner oil bath
Compression 6.5:1
Rated RPM 2000
Torque 107lb-ft / 145.1Nm
Torque RPM 1100
Starter Delco 1109457
Starter volts 6
Coolant capacity 10qts / 9.5L
Sparkplug AC Delco 86/Champion 8
Intake valve clearance 0.015inches / 0.381mm (cold)
Exhaust valve clearance 0.015inches / 0.381mm (cold)

ENGINE OIL

The Ferguson TO-30 has a crankcase oil capacity of 5 quarts (4.7L) and an additional 1 quart (0.9L) for the oil filter, totaling 6 quarts. Ensure proper oil selection based on seasonal temperature conditions to maintain optimal engine performance and prevent wear. Regular oil changes are crucial for engine longevity, as old oil can impair lubrication efficiency and lead to increased mechanical friction.

Oil capacity 5qts / 4.7L (crankcase) 1qts / 0.9L (filter)

FERGUSON TO-30 ENGINE

The Ferguson TO-30 features a Continental 2.1L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine, providing a balance between power and fuel economy suitable for light to medium-duty tasks. With a 10-gallon fuel tank, it offers reasonable operational range, though its limited capacity may require more frequent refueling during extensive use. Owners should note that while the gasoline engine provides easier starting and smoother operation, it may not be as fuel-efficient as diesel counterparts, especially in heavy-load scenarios.

Description Continental 2.1L 4-cyl gasoline
Fuel tank 10gal / 37.9L

TRANSMISSION

The Ferguson TO-30 features an unsynchronized transmission, offering four forward and one reverse gear, which can present challenges in smooth shifting under load. With an oil capacity of 18 quarts (17.0L), maintaining proper lubrication is essential for optimal performance and longevity, particularly in demanding agricultural scenarios. This tractor is well-suited for light to moderate farm tasks but may require operator skill for effective gear management.

Type unsynchronized gear
Gears 4 forward and 1 reverse
Oil capacity 18qts / 17.0L

MECHANICAL

The Ferguson TO-30 features a 4x2 2WD chassis, optimizing it for lighter tasks and less complex terrain, but may struggle in muddy or hilly conditions due to limited traction. Its manual steering and unsynchronized 4-speed transmission may pose a learning curve for new operators; however, these can enhance operator control for experienced users, especially in agricultural applications. The differential mechanical expanding shoe brakes provide reliable stopping power, although maintaining them is crucial for safety and performance in the field.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering manual
Brakes differential mechanical expanding shoe (11x2 inch)
Cab Open operator station
Transmission 4-speed unsynchronized gear

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO transmission
Rear RPM 540

FERGUSON TO-30 TIRES

The Ferguson TO-30 features front tires sized 6.00-16 and rear tires 11-28, which provide a balance between traction and stability for agricultural tasks. The larger rear tires contribute to better weight distribution and improved torque, making it suitable for plowing and tilling. However, the limited wheelbase may reduce stability on steep terrain, making careful operation essential in such scenarios.

Ag front 6.00-16
Ag rear 11-28

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 70inches / 177cm
Length 110inches / 279cm
Width 64inches / 162cm
Height (steering wheel) 52inches / 132cm
Operating weight 2,800lbs / 1270kg
Ballasted weight 4,482lbs / 2033kg
Ground clearance 13inches / 33cm
Front tread 48.5/53/57.5/62/66.5/71/75.5/80inches / 123/134/146/157/168/180/191/203cm
Rear tread 48/52/56/60/64/68/72/76inches / 121/132/142/152/162/172/182/193cm

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Ferguson TO-30's 70-inch wheelbase enhances stability during operation, making it suitable for tasks requiring precision, such as cultivating or plowing. Weighing 2,800 lbs, it offers a favorable power-to-weight ratio, but this may limit its performance in softer terrain unless equipped with appropriate tire configurations. The front tire (4.00-19) provides light steering input, while the rear tire (10-28) supports better traction and load-bearing capacity, optimizing the tractor for medium-duty agricultural tasks.

Wheelbase 70inches / 177cm
Weight 2,800lbs / 1270kg
Front tire 4.00-19
Rear tire 10-28

TO-30 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Serial number plate on instrument panel.
1951 60001
1952 72680
1953 108645
1954 125929
Final 140000

BELT PULLEY

Diameter 9inches / 22cm
Width 6.5inches / 16cm
RPM 1358
Speed 3207ft/min / 977.49meters/min

ELECTRICAL

Ground positive
Charging system Delco-Remy generator 1100529
Charging amps 25
Charging volts 6
Battery volts 6
Battery AH 80


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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