| Manufacturer | J.I. Case |
| Price | 2,100(USD) |
| Model | 20-40 |
| Equipment Type | Standard-Tread Tractors |
| Factory | Racine, Wisconsin, USA |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 7
| Description | 1082ci kerosene 2-speed 2WD/April 10 - May 7, 1920/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 7 file/Drawbar performance |
| Belt power (max) | 42.80 hp/31.9 kW |
| Belt fuel use (max) | 7.7 gal/hour/29.1 l/hour |
| Max power | 24.66 hp/18.4 kW |
| Max pull | 5,537 lbs/2511 kg |
J.I. CASE 20-40 POWER
| Drawbar (claimed) | 20 hp/14.9 kW |
| Belt (claimed) | 40 hp/29.8 kW |
| Drawbar (tested) | 24.66 hp/18.4 kW |
| Belt (tested) | 42.80 hp/31.9 kW |
ENGINES OVERVIEW
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor is powered by a robust 2-cylinder kerosene engine, available in variations of 12.4L, 14.8L, and 17.7L, enabling flexibility in power output and fuel efficiency. The choice of kerosene fuel provides cost advantages and lower volatility compared to gasoline, although it may require specific starting techniques in colder conditions. Ideal for heavy-duty agricultural tasks, the tractor’s engine sizes accommodate different power needs, though users should consider the trade-off with potential maintenance complexity due to the larger engine options.
| Description | J.I. Case 12.4L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 14.8L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 17.7L 2-cyl kerosene |
ENGINE DETAIL 1
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor features a robust 2-cylinder opposed-twin engine, providing a displacement of 755 ci (12.4 L) which enhances torque at lower RPMs, essential for plowing tasks. Operating at a rated RPM of just 450, this tractor is optimized for heavy-duty applications, though the hand-crank starter may pose challenges for modern users accustomed to electric starting systems. Its historical use of kerosene fuel indicates potential cost savings in fuel, but may require additional infrastructure for sourcing and storage compared to more contemporary fuels.
| Description | J.I. Case/kerosene/2-cylinder/liquid-cooled opposed-twin/The original engine, was used on the first model 40 tractors produced in 1912. |
| Displacement | 755 ci/12.4 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 7.75x8.00 inches/197 x 203 mm |
| Rated RPM | 450 |
| Starter type | hand-crank |
ENGINE DETAIL 2
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor features a robust 904 ci (14.8 L) kerosene-fueled, liquid-cooled opposed-twin engine with an 8-inch bore and 9-inch stroke, highlighting its significant torque output ideal for heavy-duty tasks. Operating at a low-rated RPM of 475, it provides a strong pulling power, but the hand-crank start may pose challenges with ease of use and operator safety. With a coolant capacity of 112 quarts (106.0 L), maintenance of optimal engine temperature is key, especially during prolonged operations under load.
| Description | J.I. Case/kerosene/2-cylinder/liquid-cooled opposed-twin/The 8-inch bore engine replaced the original engine early in production, at the end of 1912. |
| Displacement | 904 ci/14.8 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 8.00x9.00 inches/203 x 229 mm |
| Rated RPM | 475 |
| Starter type | hand-crank |
| Coolant capacity | 112 qts/106.0 L |
ENGINE DETAIL 3
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor features a robust 2-cylinder, kerosene-powered engine with an increased displacement of 1082 ci, translating to enhanced torque delivery despite the horsepower rating remaining unchanged. The 8.75-inch bore and 9-inch stroke provide a strong balance between power and engine stability at a low-rated RPM of 475, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications, albeit at a slower operational speed. A potential challenge is the hand-crank starter, which may pose difficulties in starting the tractor in cold conditions or for operators lacking physical strength.
| Description | J.I. Case/kerosene/2-cylinder/liquid-cooled/The final, 8.75-inch bore, engine replaced the 8-inch around 1916. Case did not re-rate the horsepower of the tractor, despite a 20% increase in displacement. |
| Displacement | 1082 ci/17.7 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 8.75x9.00 inches/222 x 229 mm |
| Rated RPM | 475 |
| Starter type | hand-crank |
J.I. CASE 20-40 ENGINES
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor, powered by a 12.4L to 17.7L dual-cylinder kerosene engine, offers a substantial torque output suitable for heavy agricultural tasks. With a 42-gallon (159.0 L) fuel tank, it provides extended operational time, ideal for long farming sessions. However, the reliance on kerosene may require careful handling and potential modifications for modern fuel compatibility in certain scenarios.
| Description | J.I. Case 12.4L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 14.8L 2-cyl kerosene/J.I. Case 17.7L 2-cyl kerosene |
| Fuel tank | 42 gal/159.0 L |
TRANSMISSION
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor features a simple gear transmission with 2 forward and 1 reverse gear, offering basic control for agricultural tasks. This configuration allows for effective maneuverability in tight spaces, but the limited gear selection may pose challenges in variable terrain. Ideal for small-scale farming or vintage restoration projects, it may not meet the demands of modern, larger-scale agricultural operations requiring greater versatility and power.
| Transmission | J.I. Case |
| Type | gear |
| Gears | 2 forward and 1 reverse |
MECHANICAL
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor features a 4x2 2WD chassis, providing basic traction suited for light agricultural tasks but limiting performance in muddy or uneven terrain. Its manual steering offers simplicity and low maintenance but may require more effort for maneuverability compared to power steering systems. The 2-speed gear transmission allows for versatility in speed selection, although it may not match the efficiency or range of modern hydrostatic transmissions, making it optimal for straightforward farming applications.
| Chassis | 4x2 2WD |
| Steering | manual |
| Cab | Open operator station. Optional four-post steel cab. |
| Transmission | 2-speed gear |
J.I. CASE 20-40 TIRES
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor features agricultural front tires measuring 38x8 inches and rear tires at 66x20 inches, which provide a balance of traction and stability for field operations. The steel construction of the tires enhances durability but may compromise ride comfort and soil compaction. Optimal for heavy-duty applications, this tractor is well-suited for tasks requiring significant power and load-bearing capacity, such as plowing and hauling.
| Ag front | 38x8 steel |
| Ag rear | 66x20 steel |
DIMENSIONS
| Length | 177 inches/449 cm |
| Width | 100 inches/254 cm |
| Height | 107 inches/271 cm |
| Operating weight | 13,900 lbs/6305 kg |
| Rear axle | 3.94 inch diameter/100 mm |
DIMENSIONS & TIRES
The J.I. Case 20-40 tractor, weighing 13,900 lbs (6305 kg), features a broad 66x20 rear tire profile, optimizing traction and stability during heavy-duty operations. The front tire size of 38x8 offers better maneuverability, but may limit load distribution when compared to wider front tires, potentially challenging in certain soil conditions. It's crucial to consider the weight-to-power ratio for optimal performance in plowing or cultivating, particularly in soft soil scenarios where increased weight can lead to soil compaction.
| Weight | 13,900 lbs/6305 kg |
| Front tire | 38x8 |
| Rear tire | 66x20 |
20-40 SERIAL NUMBERS
| Location | Serial number plate on left side of tractor frame, above the front axle. |
BELT PULLEY
| Diameter | 24 inches/60 cm |
| Width | 8.5 inches/21 cm |