International Harvester W-400 Tractor

Manufacturer International Harvester
Price 3,400(USD)
Model W-400
Equipment Type -
Factory

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 533 2

Description Gasoline Torque Amplifier 2WD March 28 - April 8, 1955 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 533 file Drawbar performance Gear 3 used for power test Gear 1 used for pull test
Belt power (max) 51.94hp / 38.7kW
Belt fuel use (max) 4.4gal/hour / 16.7l/hour
Max power 45.84hp / 34.2kW
Max pull 6,361lbs / 2885kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 535 2

Description Diesel Torque Amplifier 2WD April 8 - 20, 1955 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 535 file Drawbar performance Gear 3 used for power test Gear 1 used for pull test
Belt power (max) 46.61hp / 34.8kW
Belt fuel use (max) 3.4gal/hour / 12.9l/hour
Max power 41.20hp / 30.7kW
Max pull 6,476lbs / 2937kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 572 2

Description LP gas Torque Amplifier 2WD May 9 - 25, 1956 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 572 file Drawbar performance Gear 3 used for power test Gear 1 used for pull test
Belt power (max) 50.72hp / 37.8kW
Belt fuel use (max) 5.7gal/hour / 21.6l/hour
Max power 47.30hp / 35.3kW
Max pull 6,684lbs / 3031kg

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER W-400 POWER

Drawbar (claimed) 43.8hp / 32.7kW
PTO (claimed) 48.5hp / 36.2kW
Drawbar (tested) 47.30hp / 35.3kW
Belt (tested) 51.94hp / 38.7kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The International Harvester W-400 tractor is powered by a versatile 4.3L 4-cylinder engine available in gasoline, diesel, and LP gas configurations. Its adaptability allows for efficient fuel use and operation in various conditions; however, the gasoline variant may offer higher horsepower, while diesel provides better torque for heavy-duty applications. Potential challenges include maintaining optimal performance across different fuel types and ensuring adequate fuel supply, particularly for LP gas setups in remote areas.

Description International Harvester 4.3L 4-cyl gasoline/International Harvester 4.3L 4-cyl diesel/International Harvester 4.3L 4-cyl LP gas

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The International Harvester W-400 is powered by a 4-cylinder liquid-cooled gasoline engine with a 264 ci (4.3L) displacement and a low compression ratio of 6.3:1, optimizing it for low-end torque and fuel efficiency, particularly at 1450 RPM. A significant aspect is its 6-volt electrical system, which may limit cranking power in colder climates, requiring careful consideration of battery capacity for reliable starting. The 27-quart coolant capacity indicates adequate thermal management for prolonged operation, essential in heavy-duty agricultural tasks.

Description International Harvester gasoline 4-cylinder liquid-cooled vertical I-head
Displacement 264ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 4.00x5.25inches / 102x 133mm
Compression 6.3:1
Rated RPM 1450
Firing order 1-3-4-2
Starter volts 6
Coolant capacity 27qts / 25.6L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The International Harvester W-400 features a robust 4-cylinder diesel engine with a high displacement of 264ci (4.3L), ensuring efficient power delivery at a rated RPM of 1450, ideal for heavy-duty applications. With a compression ratio of 16.5:1, it provides enhanced fuel efficiency and torque, though it may require higher-quality diesel fuel for optimal performance. Key advantages include its liquid-cooled system and significant coolant capacity of 29 quarts, which aids in prolonged engine operation and temperature regulation, beneficial for extended work periods in demanding agricultural tasks.

Description International Harvester diesel 4-cylinder liquid-cooled vertical I-head
Displacement 264ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 4.00x5.25inches / 102x 133mm
Compression 16.5:1
Rated RPM 1450
Firing order 1-3-4-2
Starter volts 12
Coolant capacity 29qts / 27.4L

ENGINE DETAIL 3

The International Harvester W-400 features a robust 4-cylinder LP gas engine with a displacement of 264ci (4.3L), optimal for fuel efficiency and low emissions, making it suitable for agricultural applications with regulatory concerns. With a relatively low 8.33:1 compression ratio and rated at 1450 RPM, it provides a balance of torque and reliability, advantageous for consistent fieldwork, though it may struggle in high-load conditions. Its 27-quart coolant capacity ensures efficient thermal management, but potential challenges include maintenance associated with liquid-cooled systems and the availability of LP gas in remote areas.

Description International Harvester LP gas 4-cylinder liquid-cooled vertical I-head
Displacement 264ci / 4.3L
Bore/Stroke 4.00x5.25inches / 102x 133mm
Compression 8.33:1
Rated RPM 1450
Firing order 1-3-4-2
Starter volts 12
Coolant capacity 27qts / 25.6L

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER W-400 ENGINES

The International Harvester W-400 offers versatile engine options (gasoline, diesel, LP gas) with a compact 4.3L 4-cylinder configuration, providing flexibility for different operational needs. Its fuel tank capacity varies, with 18 gallons for gas/diesel, allowing for moderate range, while the LP version benefits from a larger 31-gallon tank, enhancing run time in extended field operations. However, operators must consider the availability of fuel types during fieldwork, as this may impact operational efficiency.

Description International Harvester 4.3L 4-cyl gasoline/International Harvester 4.3L 4-cyl diesel/International Harvester 4.3L 4-cyl LP gas
Fuel tank 18gal / 68.1L (gas/diesel) 31gal / 117.3L (LP)

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The International Harvester W-400 tractor features a robust 5-speed sliding gear transmission complemented by a 10-speed partial power shift system, enabling versatile gear selection for varying field conditions. This configuration enhances efficiency during operations such as plowing or cultivating by allowing smooth transitions between speeds without losing engine power. However, users may encounter a learning curve in mastering the shifting mechanics, which could impact productivity for some operators initially.

Description 5-speed sliding gear 10-speed partial power shift

TRANSMISSION 1

The International Harvester W-400 features a sliding gear transmission with 5 forward and 1 reverse gear, providing a robust power transfer ideal for varied field applications. This setup allows for straightforward operation and maintenance, but may lack the smoothness and efficiency of more advanced synchronized transmissions. Prospective users should consider its suitability for tasks requiring precise speed control, especially in tight spacing or handling heavy implements.

Manufacturer International Harvester
Type sliding gear
Gears 5 forward and 1 reverse

TRANSMISSION 2

The International Harvester W-400's Torque Amplifier transmission allows for seamless shifting between direct-drive and underdrive, enhancing versatility for various field conditions. With 10 forward and 2 reverse gears, operators can efficiently manage different speeds for tasks ranging from plowing to hauling. However, the complexity of a partial power shift may present challenges in maintenance and repair compared to traditional fully manual systems.

Transmission International Harvester Torque Amplifier
Type partial power shift
Gears 10 forward and 2 reverse
Description The Torque Amplifier (TA) uses a planetary gearset to provide a shift between direct-drive (DD) and the TA underdrive

MECHANICAL

The International Harvester W-400's 4x2 2WD chassis and hydraulic power steering provide a balance of maneuverability and control, making it suitable for diverse farming applications. The mechanical disc brakes offer consistent stopping power but may require more maintenance compared to hydraulic options. Its 5-speed sliding gear and 10-speed partial power shift transmission allow for flexibility in power management, enhancing productivity during varied field conditions; however, operators may need time to master the shifting techniques effectively.

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

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO independent
Rear RPM 540

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER W-400 TIRES

The International Harvester W-400 features a robust tire configuration with 6.50-18 ag front tires and 15.00-30 ag rear tires, offering excellent traction and stability for agricultural applications. The larger rear tires enhance load-bearing capacity and improve flotation in muddy or soft soil conditions, making it suitable for diverse farming tasks. However, the size of these tires may pose challenges in tight spaces or during transport on public roads, necessitating careful maneuvering.

Ag front 6.50-18
Ag rear 15.00-30

DIMENSIONS

Length 130inches / 330cm
Width 76inches / 193cm
Height 93.5inches / 237cm

INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER W-400 WEIGHT

Operating 6,158lbs / 2793kg (gas) 6,550lbs / 2971kg (diesel)
Ballasted 10,453lbs / 4741kg

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The International Harvester W-400 tractor, with a weight range of 6,158 to 6,550 pounds, provides stability and traction essential for heavy-duty agricultural tasks. Its front tire size of 6.50-18 and rear tire size of 15.00-30 enhance flotation and ground maintaining capabilities, making it suitable for various terrains. However, the substantial weight may present challenges in transportability and maneuverability in tight spaces, which should be considered for operations in confined areas.

Weight 6158 to 6550 pounds
Front tire 6.50-18
Rear tire 15.00-30

W-400 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Serial plate on the clutch housing, left side of tractor
1954 501
1955 510
1956 2187
Final 3858


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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