International Harvester 500 Tractor

Manufacturer International Harvester
Price -
Model 500
Equipment Type Agricultural Crawler Tractors
Factory Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 950 2

Description Gasoline Torque Amplifier crawler October 24 - November 2, 1966 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 950 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 2-Direct used for power test. Gear 2-TA used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 37.22hp / 27.8kW
Fuel use 3.2gal/hour / 12.1l/hour
Max power 31.24hp / 23.3kW
Max pull 7,988lbs / 3623kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 951 2

Description Diesel Torque Amplifier crawler October 24 - November 2, 1966 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 951 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 2-Direct used for power test Gear 2-TA used for pull test
Power at rated engine speed 36.65hp / 27.3kW
Fuel use 2.7gal/hour / 10.2l/hour
Max power 30.55hp / 22.8kW
Max pull 7,957lbs / 3609kg

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 500 POWER

Engine (gross) 47hp / 35.0kW
Engine (net) 38hp / 28.3kW
PTO (claimed) 36hp / 26.8kW
Drawbar (tested) 31.24hp / 23.3kW
PTO (tested) 37.22hp / 27.8kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The International Harvester 500 tractor features a choice between a 2.5L 4-cylinder diesel engine and a 2.4L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, offering versatility in fuel type. The diesel variant excels in torque and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications, while the gasoline engine may provide easier starting and lower initial costs. However, the lower torque output of the gasoline engine can be a disadvantage for demanding tasks, making the diesel option more suitable for rigorous farming operations.

Description International Harvester 2.5L 4-cyl diesel International Harvester 2.4L 4-cyl gasoline

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The International Harvester 500 tractor is powered by a BD-154 diesel engine, offering 43.5 hp at a rated RPM of 2000, which provides sufficient torque for medium-duty applications. Its high compression ratio of 23:1 enhances fuel efficiency and cold-start capability through glow plugs, although it may require higher-quality diesel fuel. With a compact displacement of 2.5L, it strikes a balance between power and manageable oil and coolant capacities, making it suitable for general farming tasks while keeping maintenance straightforward.

Description International Harvester BD-154 diesel 4-cylinder liquid-cooled inline
Displacement 154ci / 2.5L
Bore/Stroke 3.50x4.00inches / 89x 102 mm
Power (gross) 43.5hp / 32.4kW
Air cleaner dry element
Pre-heating glow plugs
Compression 23:1
Rated RPM 2000
Starter electric
Starter volts 12
Oil capacity 6.25qts / 5.9L
Coolant capacity 12qts / 11.4L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The International Harvester 500 tractor features a 4-cylinder C-146 gasoline engine with a displacement of 2.4L, delivering a gross output of 47hp at 2000 RPM, making it suitable for light to moderate agricultural tasks. With a compression ratio of 7.6:1 and a dry element air cleaner, it promotes fuel efficiency and reliability, though the lower power output may limit its use in heavy-duty operations. The electric starter and manageable oil and coolant capacities (5 qts and 12 qts, respectively) enhance user convenience, but proper maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance over time.

Description International Harvester C-146 gasoline 4-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 145.3ci / 2.4L
Bore/Stroke 3.375x4.06inches / 86x 103 mm
Power (gross) 47hp / 35.0kW
Fuel system 1-inch carburetor
Air cleaner dry element
Compression 7.6:1
Rated RPM 2000
Starter electric
Starter volts 12
Oil capacity 5 qts /4.7 L
Coolant capacity 12qts / 11.4L

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 500 ENGINES

The International Harvester 500 tractor is equipped with either a 2.5L 4-cylinder diesel engine or a 2.4L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, providing versatility in fuel options but with weight and efficiency trade-offs. The 15.9-gallon (60.2L) fuel tank allows for extended operation periods, ideal for tasks requiring prolonged use, though fuel consumption rates will vary between the diesel and gasoline variants. Potential challenges include finding compatible fuel supplies and maintenance considerations for each engine type due to their distinct operational characteristics.

Description International Harvester 2.5L 4-cyl diesel International Harvester 2.4L 4-cyl gasoline
Fuel tank 15.9gal / 60.2L

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The International Harvester 500 tractor features an 8-speed partial power shift and a 5-speed unsynchronized gear system, allowing for versatile speed and torque management. The partial power shift enhances operator efficiency by enabling smoother transitions between gears, ideal for varied agricultural tasks. However, the unsynchronized gear may present challenges in gear engagement, particularly for less experienced operators in demanding situations.

Description 8-speed partial power shift 5-speed unsynchronized gear

TRANSMISSION 1

The International Harvester 500 tractor's Torque Amplifier allows for smooth gear transitions with its partial power shift system, enhancing operational efficiency by enabling shift-on-the-move capabilities. The 8 forward and 2 reverse gears provide versatility in various terrains, while the 10-inch dry disc clutch ensures reliable engagement. However, the relatively low oil capacity of 13.2 quarts may require more frequent maintenance checks, especially under heavy use scenarios.

Transmission International Harvester Torque Amplifier
Type partial power shift
Gears 8 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch 10-inch dry disc
Oil capacity 13.2qts / 12.5L
Description The IH Torque Amplifier adds a shift-on-the-move underdrive to the basic gear transmission.

TRANSMISSION 2

The International Harvester 500 features an unsynchronized gear transmission with 5 forward and 1 reverse gear, which may challenge smooth shifting, especially under load. Its 10-inch dry disc clutch provides robust engagement but requires precise operation to prevent slippage. With an oil capacity of 13.2 quarts (12.5L), maintaining proper lubrication is essential for optimal performance and longevity.

Transmission International Harvester
Type unsynchronized gear
Gears 5 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch 10-inch dry disc
Oil capacity 13.2qts / 12.5L

MECHANICAL

The International Harvester 500 features a crawler chassis, providing enhanced traction and stability on uneven terrain, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. Its mechanical clutches during steering may require more physical effort but enable precise maneuverability, while the open operator station can pose ergonomic challenges in adverse weather conditions. The 8-speed partial power shift transmission allows for versatile speed control, although the unsynchronized 5-speed gear may necessitate additional skill for smooth gear transitions.

Chassis crawler
Steering mechanical clutches
Brakes mechanical contracting band
Cab Open operator station.
Transmissions 8-speed partial power shift/5-speed unsynchronized gear

HYDRAULICS

Valves 1 to 3
Pump flow 7 gpm /26.5 lpm/8 gpm /30.3 lpm (optional)/9 gpm /34.1 lpm (optional)/12gpm / 45.4lpm (front optional)/17gpm / 64.3lpm (front optional)

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type I

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO transmission
Rear RPM 1000/540
Engine RPM 980@2000

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 500 TRACKS

Size 12-inch shoes
Option 10-inch/14-inch

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 67inches / 170cm
Length 106.5inches / 270cm
Width 60inches / 152cm
Height (hood) 48.8inches / 123cm
Weight 7,050lbs / 3197kg (gas)/7,260lbs / 3293kg (diesel)
Ground clearance 13.5inches / 34cm

DIMENSIONS & TRACKS

Wheelbase 67inches / 170cm
Weight 7050 to 7260 pounds
Description 12-inch shoes

500 SERIAL NUMBERS

1965 501
1966 891
1967 2501
1968 3544
1969 4065
Final 4584

ELECTRICAL

Charging system generator
Battery volts 12
Battery AH 40 (gas)/96 (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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