International Harvester Hydro 86 Tractor

Manufacturer International Harvester
Price 23,400(USD)
Model Hydro 86
Equipment Type Row-Crop Tractors
Factory

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 1154 2

Description Gasoline hydrostatic 2WD November 14 - December 3, 1973 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 1154 file PTO performance Drawbar performance
Power at rated engine speed 69.61hp / 51.9kW
Fuel use 7.7gal/hour / 29.1l/hour
Power at rated PTO speed 64.10hp / 47.8kW
Max power 53.86hp / 40.2kW
Max pull 8,427lbs / 3822kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 1155 2

Description 312 diesel hydrostatic 2WD November 14 - December 3, 1973 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 1155 file PTO performance Drawbar performance
Power at rated engine speed 69.51hp / 51.8kW
Fuel use 5.6gal/hour / 21.2l/hour
Power at rated PTO speed 65.41hp / 48.8kW
Max power 53.10hp / 39.6kW
Max pull 8,310lbs / 3769kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 1337 2

Description 310 diesel hydrostatic 2WD March 27 - September 17, 1980 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 1337 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Pull at 6.5 KPH/Pull at 3.3 KPH
Power at rated engine speed 70.89hp / 52.9kW
Fuel use 5.3gal/hour / 20.1l/hour
Power at rated PTO speed 66.64hp / 49.7kW
Max power 52.49hp / 39.1kW
Max pull 8815lbs / 3998kg

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER HYDRO 86 POWER

Drawbar (claimed) 53.4hp / 39.8kW
PTO (claimed) 69.51hp / 51.8kW
Drawbar (tested) 53.86hp / 40.2kW
PTO (tested) 70.89hp / 52.9kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The International Harvester Hydro 86 features a robust 5.1L 6-cylinder diesel engine, offering superior torque and fuel efficiency for demanding tasks, making it ideal for heavy-duty agricultural applications. The alternative 4.8L 6-cylinder gasoline engine provides a responsive power delivery with potentially lower initial costs, but may face challenges in fuel economy and longevity compared to its diesel counterpart. Consider your farm's operational needs and fuel availability when selecting between these two engine options to optimize performance and cost-effectiveness.

Description International Harvester 5.1L 6-cyl diesel International Harvester 4.8L 6-cyl gasoline

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The International Harvester Hydro 86 features a robust D-312 diesel engine with a solid displacement of 5.1L, delivering efficient torque characteristics suitable for heavy-duty applications. Its 17:1 compression ratio enhances thermal efficiency, while the dual dry element air cleaner provides optimal filtration for extended engine longevity. A common challenge may arise from maintaining the engine's temperature under heavy loads; thus, regular coolant checks and potential upgrades to the cooling system are advisable for sustained performance in demanding farming scenarios.

Description International Harvester D-312 diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 312ci / 5.1L
Bore/Stroke 3.875x4.410inches / 98x 112mm
Air cleaner dual dry element with unloader
Compression 17:1
Rated RPM 2400
Starter volts 12

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The International Harvester Hydro 86 features a robust 6-cylinder gasoline engine with a displacement of 290.8 cubic inches (4.8L), providing ample power for various agricultural applications. The dual-stage dry air cleaner enhances engine performance by maintaining air quality, while the 7.5:1 compression ratio ensures efficient fuel combustion at a rated RPM of 2400, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. However, this lower compression may limit power output compared to modern tractor engines, requiring operators to plan usage for optimal efficiency in heavier workloads.

Description International Harvester gasoline 6-cylinder liquid-cooled
Displacement 290.8ci / 4.8L
Bore/Stroke 3.75x4.39inches / 95x 112mm
Air cleaner dual stage dry with dust unloader
Compression 7.5:1
Rated RPM 2400
Starter volts 12

ENGINE DETAIL 3

The International Harvester Hydro 86 features a robust D-310 diesel engine with a displacement of 310 cubic inches, offering a high compression ratio of 15.1:1, which enhances fuel efficiency and torque at a rated RPM of 2400. The engine's bore and stroke of 3.875x4.375 inches provide a balance of power and efficiency, making it ideal for agricultural tasks that require moderate to heavy pulling capacity. However, the dry air cleaner may necessitate more frequent maintenance in dusty environments, posing a challenge for prolonged operation.

Description International Harvester D-310 diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled The D-310 diesel was used on the Hydro 86, replacing the 312, during production in 1979
Displacement 310ci / 5.1L
Bore/Stroke 3.875x4.375inches / 98x 111mm
Air cleaner dry
Compression 15.1:1
Rated RPM 2400

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER HYDRO 86 ENGINES

The International Harvester Hydro 86 tractor is equipped with either a 5.1L 6-cylinder diesel engine or a 4.8L 6-cylinder gasoline engine, providing flexibility in fuel choice and performance. The diesel variant offers superior torque and fuel efficiency for heavy-duty applications, making it suitable for agricultural tasks, while the gasoline model may be more cost-effective for lighter operations. Notably, the hydrostatic transmission allows for smooth speed adjustments, enhancing maneuverability but may require more maintenance than traditional gear systems.

Description International Harvester 5.1L 6-cyl diesel/International Harvester 4.8L 6-cyl gasoline

TRANSMISSION

The International Harvester Hydro 86 features a hydrostatic transmission that provides seamless speed control, enhancing operator comfort and precision during tasks like tilling or mowing. Its variable 2-range gear system offers versatility for both low-speed, high-torque applications and higher-speed operations, making it adaptable for various farming scenarios. However, the complexity of hydrostatic systems can lead to higher maintenance requirements compared to traditional gear-driven tractors.

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

MECHANICAL

The International Harvester Hydro 86 features a 4x2 2WD chassis, providing sufficient maneuverability for lighter tasks but limiting traction in wet or uneven conditions. Its hydrostatic transmission offers seamless speed control, enhancing ease of operation for varied tasks while requiring regular maintenance to ensure efficiency. The open operator station design may improve visibility and airflow but can expose the operator to weather elements, which is a consideration for prolonged use in adverse conditions.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering power
Brakes differential dry disc
Cab Open operator station
Transmission hydrostatic

HYDRAULICS

Valves 1
Pump flow 12gpm / 45.4lpm

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type II

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO independent
Rear RPM 540

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER HYDRO 86 TIRES

The International Harvester Hydro 86 tractor features a unique hydrostatic transmission that enhances maneuverability and provides precise control in varying terrain, ideal for both agricultural and landscaping applications. The front tires (7.50-16) and rear tires (15.5-38) ensure good traction and stability, though the narrower front could limit load capacity compared to wider alternatives. Potential challenges include maintenance complexity of the hydrostatic system and tire compatibility for specialized tasks; however, its compact design makes it suitable for smaller farms or tight working conditions.

Ag front 7.50-16
Ag rear 15.5-38

DIMENSIONS

Operating weight 8200lbs / 3719kg
Ballasted weight 10430lbs / 4731kg

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The International Harvester Hydro 86 tractor, weighing 8,200 lbs (3,719 kg), is designed for stability in heavy-duty agricultural tasks, thanks to its robust rear tires (15.5-38) that provide excellent traction on uneven terrain. However, the front tire size (7.50-16) may limit front-end lift capacity and steering responsiveness under heavy loads, presenting a challenge during tight maneuvering. This model excels in applications like plowing and tillage, but operators should ensure proper ballast to optimize weight distribution and prevent potential front-end lift issues.

Weight 8200lbs / 3719kg
Front tire 7.50-16
Rear tire 15.5-38

HYDRO 86 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Serial number plate on the left side of the tractor's clutch housing


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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