Massey Ferguson 135 Tractor

Manufacturer Massey Ferguson
Price -
Model 135
Equipment Type Utility Tractors
Factory Coventry, England

MASSEY FERGUSON 135 POWER

Engine 45.5 hp/33.9 kW
Drawbar (claimed) 33 hp/24.6 kW
PTO (claimed) 38 hp/28.3 kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The Massey Ferguson 135 features a Perkins 2.5L 3-cylinder diesel engine or a Continental 2.4L 4-cylinder gasoline variant, providing versatility in fuel options depending on user preferences. Diesel engines offer higher torque and better fuel efficiency, making them ideal for heavy-duty agricultural tasks, while the gasoline variant can deliver smoother performance for lighter operations. Challenges may arise in terms of parts availability and maintenance depending on the engine choice, particularly for older gasoline models.

Description Perkins 2.5L 3-cyl diesel/Continental 2.4L 4-cyl gasoline/Perkins 2.5L 3-cyl gasoline

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The Massey Ferguson 135 tractor is powered by the Perkins AD3.152 diesel engine, delivering 45.5 hp at a rated RPM of 2000, which is suitable for a range of agricultural tasks. With a torque of 121.7 lb-ft available at 1300 RPM, it provides efficient power delivery during load conditions, making it advantageous for pulling implements. However, the engine's relatively limited cooling capacity of 10.5 quarts may pose challenges during extended operation in hot environments, necessitating regular monitoring.

Description Perkins AD3.152/diesel/3-cylinder/liquid-cooled
Displacement 152.7 ci/2.5 L
Bore/Stroke 3.60x5.00 inches/91 x 127 mm
Power 45.5 hp/33.9 kW
Compression 17.4:1
Rated RPM 2000
Idle RPM 675-2200
Torque 121.7 lb-ft/165.0 Nm
Torque RPM 1300
Firing order 1-2-3
Starter volts 12
Coolant capacity 10.5 qts/9.9 L
Intake valve clearance 0.010 inches/0.254 mm (hot)/0.012 inches/0.305 mm (cold)
Exhaust valve clearance 0.010 inches/0.254 mm (hot)/0.012 inches/0.305 mm (cold)

ENGINE OIL 1

The Massey Ferguson 135 tractor has an oil capacity of 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters), which is relatively modest, making routine oil changes straightforward and cost-effective. However, this lower oil capacity may require more frequent maintenance and checks to ensure optimal lubrication, particularly under heavy operational stress. It’s essential to monitor oil levels regularly to prevent engine wear and maximize performance, especially in demanding farming scenarios.

Oil capacity 6.5 qts/6.2 L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The Massey Ferguson 135, powered by the Continental Z-145 engine, delivers 35 PTO horsepower at 2000 RPM, making it suitable for medium-sized farm operations. Its 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled design with a compression ratio of 7.1:1 allows for moderate torque and efficient fuel consumption, although the lower RPM limit may restrict high-speed applications. Maintenance considerations include keeping a close check on valve clearances and spark plug conditions, which are crucial for optimizing performance and longevity.

Description Continental Z-145/gasoline/4-cylinder/liquid-cooled/When equipped with the Z-145 engine, the Massey 135 was advertised as 35 PTO horsepower.
Displacement 145 ci/2.4 L
Bore/Stroke 3.375x4.062 inches/86 x 103 mm
Compression 7.1:1
Rated RPM 2000
Firing order 1-3-4-2
Starter volts 12
Sparkplug Champion D-16/AC 85 S/Auto Lite BT-8
Sparkplug gap 0.025 inches/0.635 mm
Point gap 0.022 inches/0.559 mm
Intake valve clearance 0.013 inches/0.330 mm (hot)
Exhaust valve clearance 0.013 inches/0.330 mm (hot)

ENGINE OIL 2

The Massey Ferguson 135 has an oil capacity of 6 quarts (5.7 liters), which is relatively standard for a compact utility tractor, allowing for optimal engine lubrication and performance. Regular oil checks and changes are critical to maintain engine efficiency, particularly given its age, as older models may be prone to oil leaks or degradation. In agricultural scenarios, this oil capacity supports a balance between power output and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for small to medium-sized farms.

Oil capacity 6 qts/5.7 L

ENGINE DETAIL 3

The Massey Ferguson 135 tractor, powered by the Perkins AG3.152 engine, offers a solid balance of performance with its 45.5 hp output and a modest compression ratio of 7.5:1, which aids reliability and longevity. The 3-cylinder configuration and liquid cooling ensure efficient thermal management, beneficial for prolonged operation in varied agricultural conditions. However, the relatively low RPM rating (2000) could limit its torque delivery at higher speeds, making it less suitable for heavy-duty tasks requiring high RPM power.

Description Perkins AG3.152/gasoline/3-cylinder/liquid-cooled
Displacement 152.7 ci/2.5 L
Bore/Stroke 3.60x5.00 inches/91 x 127 mm
Power 45.5 hp/33.9 kW
Compression 7.5:1
Rated RPM 2000

MASSEY FERGUSON 135 ENGINES

The Massey Ferguson 135 tractor is equipped with a choice of powertrains: a Perkins 2.5L 3-cylinder diesel engine, which offers greater fuel efficiency and torque, or a Continental 2.4L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, providing more horsepower but at a perceived higher operational cost. The availability of both diesel and gasoline options allows for flexibility depending on the user's preferences for fuel type and application scenarios, such as heavier agricultural tasks favoring diesel. Consider potential challenges related to maintenance and parts availability, especially for the gasoline variants, as diesel engines tend to be more prevalent in heavier agricultural settings.

Description Perkins 2.5L 3-cyl diesel/Continental 2.4L 4-cyl gasoline/Perkins 2.5L 3-cyl gasoline

TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW

The Massey Ferguson 135 tractor features a robust transmission system with options for 6, 8, or 12-speed partial power shift, enabling operators to optimize gear selection for varying field conditions. This versatility enhances efficiency in different agricultural tasks, improving both productivity and fuel economy. However, the complexity of partial power shift may require additional operator training to fully leverage its capabilities.

Description 6-speed/8-speed/12-speed partial power shift

TRANSMISSION 1

The Massey Ferguson 135 features a standard gear transmission with 6 forward and 2 reverse gears, allowing for versatile speed control suited for various farming tasks. Its oil capacity of 32 quarts (30.3 liters) ensures adequate lubrication, but regular checks are essential to maintain optimal performance. While the simplicity of the gearbox is a pro for ease of maintenance, it may lack the efficiency and range of modern synchronised transmissions in complex operations.

Gears 6 forward and 2 reverse
Oil capacity 32 qts/30.3 L/MF-1129
Description Standard gear transmission for early models. Three gears, plus reverse, with high and low ranges.

TRANSMISSION 2

The Massey Ferguson 135 features an 8 forward and 2 reverse gear transmission allowing for versatile speed adjustments during field operations, enhancing productivity. With an oil capacity of 32 quarts (30.3 L), it ensures sufficient lubrication for engine components, reducing wear and prolonging lifespan. This later standard transmission, replacing the 6-speed, may provide improved torque delivery, though it could present challenges in fine-tuning speed for specific operations.

Gears 8 forward and 2 reverse
Oil capacity 32 qts/30.3 L
Description Later standard transmission, replacing the 6-speed.

TRANSMISSION 3

The Massey Ferguson 135's Multi-Power transmission enables seamless gear shifts, enhancing operational efficiency, especially in varying terrain. With 12 forward and 4 reverse gears, it offers versatility, although the lack of engine braking in low speed may present challenges on steep gradients. Ideal for agricultural tasks requiring frequent speed adjustments, operators should leverage Multi-Power High in hilly conditions to optimize torque and maintain control.

Transmission Multi-Power
Type partial power shift
Gears 12 forward and 4 reverse
Oil capacity 32 qts/30.3 L/MF-1129
Description Multi-Power provides a clutchless power shift from high (direct drive) to a lower speed, providing additional torque. Three gears, plus reverse, in high and low ranges plus the high/low Multi-Power. Multi-Power High should be used on hills as the low speed does not allow for engine braking.

SPEEDS

Description With 12.4/11-28 rear tires./

MECHANICAL

The Massey Ferguson 135 tractor features a 4x2 2WD chassis, which offers simplicity and lower maintenance costs but may limit traction on uneven terrain. The optional manual/power steering enhances operator comfort, especially during prolonged use, while the mechanical drum brakes provide adequate stopping power but may require more frequent maintenance compared to hydraulic systems. With transmission options of 6-speed, 8-speed, or 12-speed partial power shift, it provides versatility for various tasks, making it suitable for both light farming and general utility work.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering manual/power (optional)
Brakes mechanical drum
Cab Open operator station. Quick Detach cab optional.
Transmissions 6-speed/8-speed/12-speed partial power shift

CAPACITY

Fuel 10.2 gal/38.6 L/12.6 gal/47.7 L (late)
Hydraulic system 8 gal/30.3 L

HYDRAULICS

Capacity 8 gal/30.3 L
Pressure 2800 psi/193.1 bar
Pump flow 4.5 gpm/17.0 lpm
Total flow 4.8 gpm/18.2 lpm/MF-1129

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type I
Rear lift 2,850 lbs/1292 kg

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO transmission/live two-stage clutch (optional)
Rear RPM 540/540/ground
Engine RPM 540@1700

MASSEY FERGUSON 135 TIRES

The Massey Ferguson 135 is equipped with versatile agricultural tires, offering various sizes that enhance traction and stability across different terrains. The front tires (5.50-16/6.00-16) strike a balance between steering precision and load capacity, while the larger rear tires (options among 12.4-28 to 14.9-24) provide optimal power transfer and grip for heavy-duty tasks. However, selecting inappropriate tire sizes can lead to performance issues; therefore, it's crucial to match tire dimensions to the intended application—whether plowing, mowing, or transporting goods.

Ag front 5.50-16/6.00-16
Ag rear 12.4/11-28/13.6/12-28/14.9/13-24

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 72 inches/182 cm
Length 120.6 inches/306 cm
Height 54 inches/137 cm
Ground clearance 11.5 inches/29 cm (differential)/20.5 inches/52 cm (axle)
Front tread 48 to 80 inches/121 to 203 cm
Rear tread 48 to 76 inches/121 to 193 cm

MASSEY FERGUSON 135 WEIGHT

Operating 3,645 lbs/1653 kg (diesel)/3,565 lbs/1617 kg (Perkins gas)/3,810 lbs/1728 kg (Continental gas)

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Massey Ferguson 135's 72-inch wheelbase offers excellent maneuverability in tight spaces, making it suitable for small farms or orchards. Weighing between 3565 to 3810 pounds, it strikes a balance between stability and mobility, although its lighter weight may challenge traction in particularly muddy conditions. The front and rear tire sizes (5.50-16 and 12.4/11-28, respectively) provide a good combination of stability and flotation, optimizing performance on various terrains but potentially limiting heavy-duty applications compared to larger models.

Wheelbase 72 inches/182 cm
Weight 3565 to 3810 pounds
Front tire 5.50-16
Rear tire 12.4/11-28

135 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Serial number on the instrument panel below the steering column.
1965 101
1966 30283
1967 67597
1968 93305
1969 117429
1970 141426
1971 162115
1972 403518
1973 419583
1974 432709
1975 445602
1976 457866
1977 469335
1978 479192
1979 487350
Final 490714

ELECTRICAL

Ground negative
Charging system generator
Charging amps 10
Battery volts 12
Battery AH 40 (gas)/95 (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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