International Harvester 656 Tractor

Manufacturer International Harvester
Price 7,400(USD)
Model 656
Equipment Type Utility Tractors
Factory

VARIANTS

656HC high-clear

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 656 POWER

PTO (claimed) 63.8hp / 47.6kW
Plows 4-5

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The International Harvester 656 tractor is equipped with options for gasoline, diesel, and LP gas engines, providing versatility for various agricultural applications. Key advantages include the robust 4.3L and 4.6L six-cylinder engines, delivering reliable power and fuel efficiency, while the availability of LP gas offers cleaner combustion. Challenges may arise with parts availability and maintenance, particularly for older models, which can complicate operational efficiency in the field.

Description International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl gasoline International Harvester 4.6L 6-cyl diesel International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl LP gas

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The International Harvester 656 features a robust C263 gasoline engine with a displacement of 263 ci (4.3L) and operates efficiently at a rated RPM of 1800, making it suitable for moderate agricultural tasks. Its dry air cleaner enhances engine longevity by reducing contamination, but regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal airflow. With a coolant capacity of 17 quarts, effective thermal management is executed, yet the oil capacity of 9 quarts necessitates consistent monitoring to prevent overheating during prolonged operation.

Description International Harvester C263 gasoline 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 263ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 3.5625x4.3906inches / 90x 112mm
Air cleaner dry
Rated RPM 1800
Idle RPM 900-1800
Oil capacity 9qts / 8.5L
Coolant capacity 17qts / 16.1L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The International Harvester 656 features a robust D282 diesel engine, providing good torque at low RPM, which is advantageous for heavy-duty tasks like plowing and pulling. Its 282ci displacement and 6-cylinder configuration ensure smooth operation and relatively low vibration. However, the dry air cleaner may necessitate more frequent maintenance in dusty conditions, potentially impacting its performance longevity.

Description International Harvester D282 diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 282ci / 4.6L
Bore/Stroke 3.6875x4.39inches / 94x 112mm
Air cleaner dry
Rated RPM 1800
Idle RPM 900-1800
Firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
Oil capacity 9qts / 8.5L
Coolant capacity 19.5qts / 18.5L

ENGINE DETAIL 3

The International Harvester 656 is powered by a C-263 LP gas 6-cylinder engine, offering a balance of power and efficiency with a displacement of 263ci (4.3L) and an optimal compression ratio of 8.8:1. The late model rated RPM is 2300, allowing for higher operational speeds compared to the early model's 1800 RPM, which could result in improved productivity for tasks requiring enhanced power output. However, the dry air cleaner may require more frequent maintenance in dusty conditions to ensure optimal engine performance, while its oil capacity of 9 quarts and coolant capacity of 21 quarts necessitate adequate monitoring to prevent overheating or lubrication issues during extended use.

Description International Harvester C-263 LP gas 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 263ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 3.5625x4.39inches / 90x 112mm
Air cleaner dry
Compression 8.8:1
Rated RPM 1800 (early)/2300 (late)
Oil capacity 9qts / 8.5L
Coolant capacity 21qts / 19.9L

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 656 ENGINES

The International Harvester 656 tractor features multiple engine options (4.3L gasoline, 4.6L diesel, and 4.3L LP gas), allowing for flexibility depending on fuel availability and operational preference. Its 23-gallon fuel tank capacity ensures extended operational time, but be aware that fuel type may affect overall performance and maintenance requirements. When selecting an engine, consider the torque characteristics and efficiency of diesel versus gasoline, especially for heavy-duty applications.

Description International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl gasoline/International Harvester 4.6L 6-cyl diesel/International Harvester 4.3L 6-cyl LP gas
Fuel tank 23gal / 87.1L

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The International Harvester 656 features a versatile 5-speed sliding gear transmission, which allows for efficient speed selection and torque management, suitable for various agricultural tasks. The 10-speed two-speed power shift hydrostatic transmission enhances operational flexibility, enabling smooth transitions between speed ranges without the need for clutching. While the hydrostatic system improves ease of use, it may present challenges in terms of maintenance complexity and potential higher replacement costs compared to traditional mechanical transmissions.

Description 5-speed sliding gear 10-speed two-speed power shift hydrostatic

TRANSMISSION 1

The International Harvester 656 features a sliding gear transmission with 5 forward and 1 reverse speeds, providing adequate versatility for various agricultural tasks. Its 279.4mm cerametallic clutch offers improved heat resistance and durability, enhancing performance during heavy-duty operation. However, the simplicity of the sliding gear design may lead to increased wear and tear over time, necessitating regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Type sliding gear
Gears 5 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch 279.4mm cerametallic disc

TRANSMISSION 2

The International Harvester 656 features a two-speed power shift transmission with a Torque Amplifier, enhancing operational flexibility by allowing quick shifts between low and high ranges. With 10 forward and 2 reverse gears, this configuration provides a broad speed range, making it suitable for varied tasks like plowing and transport. However, the complexity of a power shift transmission may require more maintenance and could pose challenges in extreme conditions compared to simpler gear systems.

Transmission Torque Amplifier
Type two-speed power shift
Gears 10 forward and 2 reverse

SPEEDS 1

Description With 16.9-30 rear tires

TRANSMISSION 3

The International Harvester 656 features a hydrostatic transmission that provides infinite speed control within its 2-range system, allowing for smooth operation and precise maneuverability in various applications. This design enhances efficiency when performing tasks such as tilling or mowing, as operators can easily adjust speed without changing gears. However, the hydrostatic system may lead to higher maintenance costs compared to traditional gear transmissions.

Type hydrostatic
Gears infinite (2-range) forward and reverse

MECHANICAL

The International Harvester 656 features a 4x2 2WD chassis which may limit traction in uneven terrain compared to 4WD models, potentially affecting stability in challenging conditions. It has a power steering system enhancing maneuverability, particularly beneficial for long hours of operation. The varied transmission options, including both a 5-speed sliding gear and a 10-speed two-speed power shift hydrostatic, provide flexibility for various applications, making it suitable for both field work and transport tasks; however, the learning curve may be steep for operators unfamiliar with hydrostatic systems.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering power
Brakes disc
Cab Open operator station
Transmissions 5-speed sliding gear 10-speed two-speed power shift hydrostatic

HYDRAULICS

Type open center
Valves 0 to 2
Pump flow 12gpm / 45.4lpm

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type II
Control lower-link draft sensing

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO independent
Rear RPM 540/1000

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 656 TIRES

The International Harvester 656 features a Hi-Clear front tire size of 6.00-16 and rear tire size of 15.5-38, optimizing ground clearance for varied terrain. This configuration enhances performance in agricultural applications, providing stability and improved traction in soft or uneven soil. However, operators should consider potential challenges in maneuverability in tight spaces due to the larger rear tires.

Ag front 6.00-16 (Hi-Clear)
Ag rear 15.5-38 (Hi-Clear)

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 80inches / 203cm
Length 152inches / 386cm
Width 74inches / 187cm
Height (steering wheel) 62inches / 157cm
Height (hood) 56inches / 142cm
Gas Shipping weight 5800lbs / 2630kg
Diesel Shipping weight 6100lbs / 2766kg
Clearance (front axle) 19inches / 48cm
Front tread 54 to 84inches / 137to 213cm
Rear tread 54 to 78inches / 137to 198cm

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The International Harvester 656 tractor features an 80-inch wheelbase, providing stability during operation, especially in rolling terrain. Weighing between 5,800 to 6,100 pounds, it offers a robust frame suitable for heavy-duty tasks but may present challenges in maneuverability on tighter fields. Its tire configuration, with 7.50-16 fronts and 16.9-38 rears, enables good traction in various field conditions, enhancing performance in plowing and tillage operations.

Wheelbase 80inches / 203cm
Weight 5800 to 6100 pounds
Front tire 7.50-16
Rear tire 16.9-38

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER 2000 LOADER

Description With double-acting lift cylinders
Loader weight 1417lbs / 642kg
Height (to pin) 125inches / 317cm
Clearance, dumped bucket 105inches / 266cm
Rollback angle 18°
Breakout force (lift) 4000lbs / 1814kg
Lift to full height (at pin) 2000lbs / 907kg
Bucket width 48inches / 121cm 60inches / 152cm

656 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Clutch housing, right side
1966 7501 (IH)
1967 7842 (IH)
1968 9929 (IH)
1969 11802 (IH)
1970 13353 (IH)
1971 14194 (IH)
1972 14952 (IH)
1973 15746 (IH)

ELECTRICAL

Charging system alternator
Charging amps 55


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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