| Manufacturer | Minneapolis-Moline |
| Price | 6,500(USD) |
| Model | G550 |
| Equipment Type | Row-Crop Tractors |
| Factory |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 943 2
| Description | Diesel Hydra-Power 2WD June 8 - 15, 1966 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 943 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 4-Hydra used for power test Gear 2-Hydra used for pull test |
| Power at rated engine speed | 53.50 hp / 39.9 kW |
| Fuel use | 4.4 gal/hour / 16.7 l/hour |
| Max power | 45.7 hp / 34.1 kW |
| Max pull | 6,636 lbs / 3010 kg |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 944 2
| Description | Gasoline Hydra-Power 2WD June 8 - 16, 1966 Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 944 file PTO performance Drawbar performance Gear 4-Hydra used for power test Gear 2-Hydra used for pull test |
| Power at rated engine speed | 53.3 hp / 39.7 kW |
| Fuel use | 4.9 gal/hour / 18.5 l/hour |
| Max power | 45.4 hp / 33.9 kW |
| Max pull | 6,799 lbs / 3084 kg |
MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE G550 POWER
| PTO (claimed) | 53 hp / 39.5 kW |
| Drawbar (tested) | 45.7 hp / 34.1 kW |
| PTO (tested) | 53.50 hp / 39.9 kW |
ENGINES OVERVIEW
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 tractor is equipped with either a Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cylinder diesel or gasoline engine, offering a balance of power and efficiency suitable for agricultural tasks. The diesel variant typically provides better torque at lower RPMs, enhancing fuel economy and longevity, while the gasoline engine may offer quicker start-up and lighter weight, ideal for smaller scale operations. Key considerations include the choice of fuel type based on operation scale and desired maintenance intervals, as diesel engines generally require more rigorous upkeep.
| Description | Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl diesel Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl gasoline |
ENGINE DETAIL 1
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 features a robust Waukesha-Oliver 6-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 232 ci (3.8 L), allowing for efficient power delivery at a rated RPM of 2200, beneficial for high-torque applications. With a compression ratio of 165:1, it is designed for fuel efficiency and lower emissions, though it may require quality fuel to maximize performance. Be aware that the dry air cleaner can lead to higher maintenance needs in dusty environments, and its oil capacity of 6 quarts suggests a moderate engine size for easier servicing.
| Description | Waukesha-Oliver diesel 6-cylinder liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 232 ci / 3.8 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.625x3.75 inches / 92 x 95 mm |
| Air cleaner | dry |
| Compression | 165:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2200 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Oil capacity | 6 qts / 5.7 L |
| Coolant capacity | 20 qts / 18.9 L |
ENGINE DETAIL 2
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 features a 232 cubic inch Waukesha-Oliver 6-cylinder engine that offers a reliable power output at 2200 RPM, making it suitable for various agricultural tasks. The 8:1 compression ratio coupled with a dry air cleaner enhances fuel efficiency, but maintenance may require regular inspections to ensure optimal performance. With a total oil capacity of 6 quarts and coolant capacity of 20 quarts, it balances cooling demands effectively, though monitoring levels is crucial to prevent overheating during extended use.
| Description | Waukesha-Oliver gasoline 6-cylinder liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 232 ci / 3.8 L |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.625x3.75 inches / 92 x 95 mm |
| Air cleaner | dry |
| Compression | 8:1 |
| Rated RPM | 2200 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Oil capacity | 6 qts / 5.7 L |
| Coolant capacity | 20 qts / 18.9 L |
MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE G550 ENGINES
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 tractor features a choice between a Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cylinder diesel or gasoline engine, providing flexibility in fuel options. The diesel variant offers better fuel efficiency and torque for heavy applications, while the gasoline version may provide easier starting and lower operational costs. Consider potential challenges such as maintenance complexity and parts availability when selecting between the two fuel types.
| Description | Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl diesel Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl gasoline |
TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 features a 12-speed partial power shift transmission, providing smooth gear transitions and enabling efficient operation across various terrains. The 6-speed unsynchronized gear option may present challenges in operator skill requirements, especially during shifting under load. This tractor excels in applications where versatile speed control is essential, such as farming and towing, but may require careful handling to prevent gear grinding during shifts.
| Description | 12-speed partial power shift 6-speed unsynchronized gear |
TRANSMISSION 1
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 tractor features a Hydra-Power partial power shift transmission, allowing seamless transitions between direct-drive and the lower range, which enhances operational efficiency under varying load conditions. With 12 forward and 4 reverse gears, this system provides versatile speed options for different agricultural tasks, though managing the clutch effectively is essential to prevent wear on the 279.4mm dry disc. Prospective users should consider the ease of gear shifting as an advantage for daily operations while being aware of potential challenges in clutch maintenance over extended use.
| Transmission | Hydra-Power |
| Type | partial power shift |
| Gears | 12 forward and 4 reverse |
| Clutch | 279.4mm dry disc |
| Description | The Hydra-Power transmission provides a two-speed power shift between direct-drive and the lower Hydra-Power range |
TRANSMISSION 2
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 features an unsynchronized gear transmission with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, which may limit smooth gear shifting under load, posing a challenge in precision operations. Its 279.4mm dry disc clutch provides durability but may require more maintenance compared to wet clutches. The oil capacity of 40 quarts (37.9 L) is adequate for ensuring engine lubrication, though regular monitoring is essential to prevent operational issues.
| Type | unsynchronized gear |
| Gears | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | 279.4mm dry disc |
| Oil capacity | 40 qts / 37.9 L |
MECHANICAL
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 features a 4x2 2WD chassis, which offers simplicity and lighter weight but may struggle in muddy or hilly terrains. Its power steering enhances operator comfort, while disc brakes provide reliable stopping power for increased safety. The 12-speed partial power shift transmission allows for smoother gear transitions, making it suitable for diverse agricultural tasks, though the 6-speed unsynchronized gear may pose challenges in shifting efficiency.
| Chassis | 4x2 2WD |
| Steering | power |
| Brakes | disc |
| Cab | Open operator station Cab optional with available heater |
| Transmissions | 12-speed partial power shift 6-speed unsynchronized gear |
CAPACITY
| Fuel | 27.5 gal / 104.1 L |
| Hydraulic system | 14 gal / 53.0 L |
HYDRAULICS
| Type | open center |
| Capacity | 14 gal / 53.0 L |
| Valves | 2 to 4 |
TRACTOR HITCH
| Rear Type | II/I |
| Control | lower-link draft control |
POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)
| Rear PTO | independent |
| Rear RPM | 540/1000/540/1000 |
MINNEAPOLIS-MOLINE G550 TIRES
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 tractor features Ag front tires of size 5.50-16 and a selection of rear tire sizes (12.4-38, 13.6-38, 14.9-38, 16.9-34), which allows for versatility in traction and stability on various terrains. The specific combination of tire sizes can enhance the tractor's ability to handle different agricultural tasks, such as plowing or cultivating, while optimizing ground contact and minimizing soil compaction. However, operators must consider the implications of larger rear tires in terms of power requirements and potential steering challenges, particularly in tight maneuvering scenarios.
| Ag front | 5.50-16 |
| Ag rear | 12.4-38/13.6-38/14.9-38/16.9-34 |
DIMENSIONS
| Wheelbase | 99 inches / 251 cm |
| Length | 154.5 inches / 392 cm |
| Width | 81.5 inches / 207 cm *Minimum width |
| Height (steering wheel) | 80 inches / 203 cm |
| Height (exhaust) | 97.625 inches / 247 cm |
| Shiping weight | 6841 lbs / 3103 kg |
| Ground clearance | 25.375 inches / 64 cm |
| Front tread | 51.5 to 87.5 inches / 130 to 222 cm |
| Rear tread | 56.5 to 89.5 inches / 143 to 227 cm |
DIMENSIONS & TIRES
The Minneapolis-Moline G550 tractor features a wheelbase of 99 inches and a weight of 6841 lbs, providing stable handling and good traction for various agricultural tasks. Its tire specifications, with front tires at 7.50-16 and rear tires at 15.5-38, indicate suitable capabilities for both maneuverability and load-bearing, making it effective for field operations. However, potential challenges include limited ground clearance due to tire size and weight distribution, which should be considered when operating on uneven terrain.
| Wheelbase | 99 inches / 251 cm |
| Weight | 6841 lbs / 3103 kg |
| Front tire | 7.50-16 |
| Rear tire | 15.5-38 |
G550 SERIAL NUMBERS
| Location | Serial number plate below instrument panel |
| 1969 | 218-128 |
| 1970 | 221-295 |
| 1971 | 225-914 |
| 1972 | 232-089 |
| 1973 | 236-883 |
| 1974 | 244-937 |
| 1975 | 256-165 |
| Final | 262-877 |