Minneapolis-Moline BF Tractor

Manufacturer Minneapolis-Moline
Price -
Model BF
Equipment Type -
Factory

VARIANTS

BFW row-crop, wide-front
BFD row-crop, tricycle front
BFS standard front
BFH high-crop

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 469

Description Gasoline 4-speed 2WD/October 22 - 27, 1951/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 469 file/Drawbar performance/Gear 3 used for power test./Gear 1 used for pull test.
Belt power (max) 27.12 hp/20.2 kW
Belt fuel use (max) 2.8 gal/hour/10.6 l/hour
Max power 24.12 hp/18.0 kW
Max pull 2,725 lbs/1236 kg

MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE BF POWER

Drawbar (claimed) 19 hp/14.2 kW
Belt (claimed) 23.5 hp/17.5 kW
Drawbar (tested) 24.12 hp/18.0 kW
Belt (tested) 27.12 hp/20.2 kW

ENGINE DETAIL

The Minneapolis-Moline BF tractor is powered by a Hercules IXB3 engine, featuring a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, vertical L-head configuration with a displacement of 133 ci (2.2 L) and a relatively low compression ratio of 6.8:1, ideal for running on gasoline. With a rated RPM of 1800, this setup emphasizes torque at lower speeds, which can be advantageous for heavy-duty applications such as plowing or pulling implements in agricultural settings. However, the limited displacement and compression may lead to reduced power output compared to modern high-performance tractors, presenting challenges in more demanding tasks.

Description Hercules IXB3/gasoline/4-cylinder/liquid-cooled vertical L-head
Displacement 133 ci/2.2 L
Bore/Stroke 3.25x4.00 inches/83 x 102 mm
Compression 6.8:1
Rated RPM 1800
Coolant capacity 11 qts/10.4 L

MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE BF ENGINE

The Minneapolis-Moline BF tractor is powered by a Hercules 2.2L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, providing adequate torque and power for light agricultural tasks. With a 12-gallon (45.4 L) fuel tank, it offers a balanced range for operations, although its relatively small capacity might necessitate more frequent refueling for extended work sessions. Ideal for small to medium-sized farms, this tractor excels in maneuverability but may struggle with heavy-duty tasks requiring higher horsepower or larger fuel reserves.

Description Hercules 2.2L 4-cyl gasoline
Fuel tank 12 gal/45.4 L

TRANSMISSION

The Minneapolis-Moline BF features a simple 4-forward, 1-reverse gear transmission that may limit its operational versatility in complex terrain but offers ease of use for straightforward tasks. Its unsynchronized gear system requires careful operation to avoid grinding during shifts, which can be challenging for inexperienced operators. Ideal for basic agricultural applications, this tractor excels in tasks requiring consistent power without the need for rapid gear changes.

Type unsynchronized
Gears 4 forward and 1 reverse

MECHANICAL

The Minneapolis-Moline BF features a 4x2 2WD chassis, which provides simplicity and cost-effectiveness, ideal for light to moderate agricultural tasks, but may struggle in uneven terrain. The manual/power steering enhances maneuverability in tight spaces while the differential mechanical contracting band brakes deliver reliable stopping power, although they may require more maintenance than hydraulic systems. The 4-speed unsynchronized transmission can be a challenge for inexperienced operators, as precise shifting is necessary to prevent gear grinding, limiting its use in demanding applications.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering manual/power
Brakes differental mechanical contracting band
Cab Open operator station.
Transmission 4-speed unsynchronized

TRACTOR HITCH

Rear Type optional

MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE BF TIRES

The Minneapolis-Moline BF tractor features agricultural tires with a front size of 5.50x15 and rear size of 10.00x28, providing a stable footprint and enhanced traction in field applications. The larger rear tires contribute to improved load-bearing capacity and better flotation in soft soil conditions, making it suitable for diverse farming scenarios. However, the relatively limited front tire size may lead to steering challenges when maneuvering in tight spaces or during heavy-duty tasks.

Ag front 5.50x15
Ag rear 10.00x28

DIMENSIONS

Length 117 inches/297 cm
Height 76 inches/193 cm
Operating weight 2894 lbs/1312 kg
Ballasted weight 4636 lbs/2102 kg

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Minneapolis-Moline BF tractor, weighing 2894 lbs (1312 kg), features a balanced weight distribution which enhances stability during field operations. Its front tires (5.50x15) are smaller, which can improve maneuverability in tight spaces, while the larger rear tires (10.00x28) provide better traction and flotation on soft soils. However, the more specialized tire sizes may limit options for replacements, posing a potential challenge in maintenance scenarios.

Weight 2894 lbs/1312 kg
Front tire 5.50x15
Rear tire 10.00x28

BF SERIAL NUMBERS

1950 R500 (Avery R)
1951 R1839 (Avery R)
1952 R4460 (Avery R)
1953 58000001 (BFH)


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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