| Manufacturer |
Fordson |
| Price |
3,417(USD) |
| Model |
New Major |
| Equipment Type |
- |
| Factory |
Dagenham, England |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 500
| Description |
Diesel 1953 Drawbar performance |
| Belt power (max) |
38.5hp / 28.7kW |
| Max power |
34.2hp / 25.5kW |
| Max pull |
5,315lbs / 2410kg |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 501
| Description |
Gasoline 1953 Drawbar performance |
| Belt power (max) |
33hp / 24.6kW |
| Max power |
30hp / 22.4kW |
FORDSON NEW MAJOR POWER
| Drawbar (claimed) |
30hp / 22.4kW |
| PTO (claimed) |
35hp / 26.1kW |
| Drawbar (tested) |
34.2hp / 25.5kW |
| Belt (tested) |
38.5hp / 28.7kW |
ENGINES OVERVIEW
The Fordson New Major tractor is powered by a choice of three engines: a 3.3L all-fuel option, a gasoline variant, and a 3.6L diesel engine, allowing flexibility in fuel type based on availability and cost-effectiveness. The all-fuel capability is a distinct advantage for diverse farming environments, while the diesel engine typically offers better fuel economy and torque for heavy-duty operations. However, the initial purchase price of diesel engines may be higher, and maintenance requirements differ, necessitating a consideration of long-term operational costs in planning.
| Description |
Ford 3.3L 4-cyl all fuel Ford 3.3L 4-cyl gasoline Ford 3.6L 4-cyl diesel |
ENGINE DETAIL 1
The Fordson New Major tractor features a robust 3.3L 4-cylinder engine with a unique compression range of 4.61:1 or 4.35:1, optimizing fuel efficiency in various operational conditions. With a rated RPM of 1600, this tractor is suitable for steady agricultural tasks, providing adequate torque and power while minimizing engine wear at lower RPMs. Its 12-volt starter system ensures reliable ignition, but consider potential challenges in extreme cold climates where starting performance may be affected.
| Description |
Ford all fuel 4-cylinder liquid-cooled |
| Displacement |
198.9ci / 3.3L |
| Bore/Stroke |
3.74x4.52inches / 95 x 115mm |
| Compression |
4.61:1/4.35:1 (early type) |
| Rated RPM |
1600 |
| Firing order |
1-2-4-3 |
| Starter volts |
12 |
| Oil capacity |
7.2qts / 6.8L |
ENGINE DETAIL 2
The Fordson New Major features a robust Ford 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a moderate displacement of 3.3L, which provides good torque at a rated RPM of 1600, making it suitable for a variety of agricultural tasks. With a compression ratio of 5.5:1, it may exhibit lower power efficiency compared to higher-compression counterparts, but this can be advantageous for longevity and lower maintenance costs. Owners should consider the oil and coolant capacities of 7.2 quarts and 12.4 quarts, respectively, for effective management of engine temperatures and lubrication during extended operation.
| Description |
Ford gasoline 4-cylinder liquid-cooled |
| Displacement |
198.9ci / 3.3L |
| Bore/Stroke |
3.74x4.52inches / 95 x 115mm |
| Compression |
5.5:1 |
| Rated RPM |
1600 |
| Firing order |
1-2-4-3 |
| Starter volts |
12 |
| Oil capacity |
7.2qts / 6.8L |
| Coolant capacity |
12.4qts / 11.7L |
ENGINE DETAIL 3
The Fordson New Major features a robust 4-cylinder diesel engine with a 3.6L displacement and a high compression ratio of 16.0:1, optimizing torque for heavy-duty applications. Its bore and stroke dimensions result in effective airflow and combustion efficiency, making it suitable for agricultural tasks typically requiring sustained power at low RPM, specifically rated at 1600. While it provides reliable starting with a 12-volt system, potential challenges include managing engine heat and ensuring fuel quality to maintain performance in demanding rural environments.
| Description |
Ford diesel 4-cylinder liquid-cooled |
| Displacement |
220ci / 3.6L |
| Bore/Stroke |
3.937x4.52inches / 100 x 115mm |
| Compression |
16.0 : 1 |
| Rated RPM |
1600 |
| Firing order |
1-2-4-3 |
| Starter volts |
12 |
ENGINE OIL
The Fordson New Major has an oil capacity of 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters), which is advantageous for maintaining optimal lubrication and minimizing engine wear during operation. Ensure routine oil changes to promote engine longevity, as insufficient oil levels can lead to overheating and decreased performance. Consider the availability of compatible oil types to maintain efficiency, especially in varied working scenarios.
| Oil capacity |
7.2qts / 6.8L |
FORDSON NEW MAJOR ENGINES
The Fordson New Major features a versatile powertrain with options for a 3.3L gasoline or a 3.6L diesel engine, offering flexibility depending on fuel availability and efficiency needs. A substantial primary fuel tank capacity of 18 gallons (68.1L) ensures prolonged operation, beneficial for extensive fieldwork; however, the auxiliary fuel system at 1.2 gallons (4.5L) may limit emergency fueling scenarios without a backup supply. When evaluating performance, consider engine choice impacts on torque and efficiency, with gasoline engines typically providing quicker throttle response, while diesel offers better fuel economy under load.
| Description |
Ford 3.3L 4-cyl all fuel Ford 3.3L 4-cyl gasoline/Ford 3.6L 4-cyl diesel |
| Fuel tank |
18gal / 68.1L (gasoline, diesel)/ 16.8gal/63.6 L (all fuel) |
| Aux. fuel |
1.2gal / 4.5L |
TRANSMISSION
The Fordson New Major tractor features a 6-speed forward and 2-speed reverse transmission, allowing for versatile operational capabilities across various terrains. The dry disc clutch enhances durability but may require more precise engagement, particularly under heavy loads. With an oil capacity of 21.6 quarts, it's crucial to maintain proper lubrication with the appropriate SAE viscosity based on operating temperature to ensure optimal performance and prevent wear.
| Type |
gear |
| Gears |
6 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch |
dry disc |
| Oil capacity |
21.6qts / 20.4L |
| 90oF [32oC] |
: SAE140 |
| 90o?10oF [32o?-12oC] |
: SAE90 |
| 10oF [-12oC] |
: SAE80 |
| Description |
Three speeds, plus reverse, in two ranges. |
MECHANICAL
The Fordson New Major features a 4x2 2WD chassis, which enhances maneuverability on flat terrain but may struggle with traction in hilly or wet conditions. The open operator station provides good visibility and airflow, though it offers minimal protection from the elements, making it less ideal for prolonged outdoor work in adverse weather. Its 6-speed gear transmission allows for versatility in speed, catering to a range of agricultural tasks but may require skill to operate effectively in varied field conditions.
| Chassis |
4x2 2WD |
| Cab |
Open operator station |
| Transmission |
6-speed gear |
TRACTOR HITCH
POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)
| Rear PTO |
transmission live*Live PTO became an option in 1957 |
| Rear RPM |
540 |
FORDSON NEW MAJOR TIRES
The Fordson New Major tractor's front tire specification of 7.50-16 provides a narrower footprint, improving maneuverability in tight spaces, while the rear 14-30 tires offer enhanced traction and stability on various terrains. The combination supports agricultural tasks requiring good weight distribution and ground engagement. However, the larger rear tires may lead to higher soil compaction if not used judiciously, so careful planning of field operations is essential.
| Ag front |
7.50-16 |
| Ag rear |
14-30 |
DIMENSIONS
| Wheelbase |
80inches / 203cm |
| Length |
130.5inches / 331cm |
| Width |
65inches / 165cm |
| Height (steering wheel) |
63inches / 160cm |
| Height (hood) |
57.35inches / 145cm |
| Weight |
5,308lbs / 2407kg |
| Clearance (front axle) |
19.5inches / 49cm |
| Clearance (drawbar) |
13.13inches / 33cm |
DIMENSIONS & TIRES
The Fordson New Major tractor has a wheelbase of 80 inches, providing stability and a relatively tight turning radius, advantageous for maneuvering in smaller fields. Weighing 5,308 lbs, it offers good traction for tillage and plowing tasks, but may struggle in softer soils due to potential sinking. Equipped with front tires of 7.50-16 and rear tires of 14-30, the tire dimensions suggest a balance between flotation and grip, but optimizing tire pressure is crucial to prevent soil compaction during operation.
| Wheelbase |
80inches / 203cm |
| Weight |
5,308lbs / 2407kg |
| Front tire |
7.50-16 |
| Rear tire |
14-30 |
NEW MAJOR SERIAL NUMBERS
| 1951 |
1217101 |
| 1952 |
1217104 |
| 1953 |
1247381 |
| 1954 |
1276857 |
| 1955 |
1322525 |
| 1956 |
1371418 |
| 1957 |
1412409 |
| 1958 |
1458381 |
ELECTRICAL
| Ground |
positive |
| Battery volts |
12 |
