Ford FW-20 Tractor

Manufacturer Ford
Price 70,699(USD)
Model FW-20
Equipment Type Four-wheel Drive 4WD Tractors
Factory Fargo, North Dakota, USA

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 1291

Description Diesel 20-speed 4WD October 5 - 12, 1978 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 1291 file Drawbar performance Gear 3-LO used for power test Gear 1-LS used for pull test
Max power 150.51hp / 112.2kW
Fuel use 12.4gal/hour / 46.9l/hour
Max pull 27155lbs / 12317kg

FORD FW-20 POWER

Engine (gross) 210hp / 156.6kW
Drawbar (claimed) 155hp / 115.6kW
PTO (claimed) 57hp / 42.5kW (540 RPM) 105hp / 78.3kW (1000 RPM)
Drawbar (tested) 150.51hp / 112.2kW

ENGINE DETAIL

The Ford FW-20 tractor is equipped with a powerful Cummins V-8 engine, offering robust performance with a gross output of 210 hp, ideal for heavy-duty applications. With a high compression ratio of 17:1 and a displacement of 9.1L, it provides excellent torque for pulling and hauling tasks, though maintenance of the dual air cleaner system is crucial to ensure optimal airflow and engine performance. Scenario-wise, this tractor is well-suited for large-scale farms and construction sites, but potential challenges include fuel consumption and weight management during transport due to its substantial oil and coolant capacities.

Description Cummins diesel 8-cylinder liquid-cooled V-8
Displacement 555ci / 9.1L
Bore/Stroke 4.625x4.125inches / 117x 105mm
Power (gross) 210hp / 156.6kW
Air cleaner dual paper elements
Compression 17:1
Rated RPM 2850
Starter volts 12
Oil capacity 31.6qts / 29.9L
Coolant capacity 54.4qts / 51.5L

FORD FW-20 ENGINE

The Ford FW-20 is powered by a robust Cummins 9.1L 8-cylinder diesel engine, delivering substantial torque essential for heavy-duty applications. Its strength lies in fuel efficiency and high power output, ideal for tasks requiring sustained performance, such as plowing and hauling. However, potential challenges include engine weight impacting maneuverability and maintenance complexities associated with diesel engines, necessitating a skilled technician for optimal upkeep.

Description Cummins 9.1L 8-cyl diesel

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The Ford FW-20 tractor features a dual-range 10-speed transmission that can be split into 20 speeds, enhancing operational flexibility and precision for diverse agricultural tasks. Its robust engine coupled with this transmission setup allows for efficient power delivery, which can be advantageous in both high-torque applications and faster transport scenarios. However, the complexity of such a transmission system may pose challenges in maintenance and repair, requiring specialized knowledge and tools.

Description 10-speed 20-speed

TRANSMISSION 1

The Ford FW-20 tractor features a Spicer 1010 transmission with 10 forward and 2 reverse gears, facilitating flexibility in speed selection for various tasks. Its hydraulic clutch with 355mm cerametallic dry discs offers enhanced durability and efficient power transfer, though higher wear may occur under extreme conditions. With a moderate oil capacity of 37 quarts (35.0L), regular maintenance is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity in demanding agricultural scenarios.

Transmission Spicer 1010
Gears 10 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch hydraulic 355mm cerametallic dry discs
Oil capacity 37qts / 35.0L
Description Five gears (1-5) plus reverse (R) in two ranges (low/high)

TRANSMISSION 2

The Ford FW-20 features a 20 forward and 4 reverse gear configuration, providing excellent versatility for various field conditions and tasks. The hydraulic dry disc clutch enhances performance and provides smoother engagement, reducing wear over time. The optional dual-speed transfer case maximizes operational efficiency, allowing customization for specific applications, although its complexity may introduce maintenance challenges.

Gears 20 forward and 4 reverse
Clutch hydraulic dry disc
Description Optional dual-speed transfer case provides 20 forward gears on the base 10-speed transmission

MECHANICAL

The Ford FW-20 tractor features a 4x4 articulated frame, providing superior maneuverability in tight spaces, ideal for diverse agricultural settings. Its outboard planetary final drives offer enhanced torque delivery and stability, while the articulated power steering ensures precise handling even under heavy loads. Although the hydraulic dry disc brakes enhance stopping power, they may require more maintenance compared to wet systems, necessitating regular checks for optimal performance.

Chassis 4x4 articulated 4WD
Final drives outboard planetary
Steering articulated power
Brakes hydraulic dry disc
Cab Cab standard with air-conditioning
Transmissions 10-speed 20-speed

CAPACITY

Fuel 225gal / 851.6L
Hydraulic system 25gal / 94.6L

HYDRAULICS

Type open center
Capacity 25gal / 94.6L
Pressure 2250psi / 155.1bar
Valves 4 or 5
Pump flow 33.3gpm / 126.0lpm
SCV flow 20gpm / 75.7lpm

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type III
Rear lift (at 24 12500lbs / 5670kg

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO independent. Hydrostatic-driven PTO
Rear RPM 540/1000

FORD FW-20 TIRES

The Ford FW-20 tractor features a front and rear tire size of 24.5x32, with several rear tire size options enhancing versatility for various farming conditions. The choice of larger rear tires (up to 30.5x32) can improve traction and flotation on soft soils, while smaller options (like 18.4x34) may increase maneuverability and reduce soil compaction. However, selecting the right tire size is critical; improper sizing can lead to reduced efficiency and uneven weight distribution, influencing overall performance.

Ag front 24.5x32
Ag rear 24.5x32 / 30.5x32 / 18.4x34 / 20.8x34 / 20.8x38 / 23.1x30 / 23.1x34 / 24.5x32

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 132.5inches / 336cm
Length 267inches / 678cm
Height (hood) 94.3inches / 239cm
Height (cab) 134.3inches / 341cm
Operating weight 29615lbs / 13433kg *Weight with 23.1-30 duals
Ballasted weight 31000lbs / 14061kg
Ground clearance 12inches / 30cm

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Ford FW-20 tractor features a substantial wheelbase of 132.5 inches, enhancing stability and load distribution, ideal for heavy-duty tasks. Weighing 29,615 lbs, it can handle demanding agricultural operations, though its size may limit maneuverability in tighter spaces. The uniform tire size of 18.4x38 provides consistent traction on various terrains but may affect flotation in softer soils.

Wheelbase 132.5inches / 336cm
Weight 29615lbs / 13433kg
Front tire 18.4x38
Rear tire 18.4x38

ELECTRICAL

Ground negative
Charging system alternator
Charging amps 80
Batteries 4
Battery CCA 475*Each
Battery volts 12


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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