Sources and field evidence
Catalog Archive: Baseline specifications compiled from historical manufacturer archives and equipment registries. Laboratory test report verification in progress.
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Engineering & Capability Benchmark
Specific output, tractive ratio, and segment percentile
Engine and power specifications
- Engine model
- Willys
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
- Rated horsepower
- 40 hp
- Rated PTO Power
- N/A (Empire specification)
- Cylinders
- 4
- Displacement
- 2.2 L (134.6 ci)
- Bore / stroke
- 3.125x4.375 inches 79 x 111 mm
- Rated RPM
- 2000 RPM
- Crankcase oil capacity
- 4 qts (~3.8 L)
- Coolant capacity
- 16 qts (~15.1 L)
Maintenance picks for the 88
Oil capacity 4 qts — match the filter before you drain.
Transmission and chassis specifications
- Transmission type
- Gear (6F/2R)
- Gears (forward / reverse)
- 6 forward / 2 reverse
- Drive system
- 2WD
- Wheelbase
- 76.5 in
- Front tire
- 5.50-16
- Rear tire
- 9-24
- Hydraulic flow
- N/A
- Rear hitch
- N/A
Implement Draft & Ballast Matcher
Simulate draft resistance, drawbar power transfer, and optimal axle weight distribution for Empire 88.
Theoretical draft formula suggests 4,000 lbs. Official manufacturer GVWR is unrecorded for this catalog entry, so target weight is constrained to an engineering structural estimate (~135% of base operating weight) to prevent chassis overload.
Engine demand (83.4 HP) exceeds rated power (40 HP). Reduce working speed by 1.0-1.5 mph or reduce working width.
Target ballast is capped at 3,375 lbs based on structural engineering estimate (~135% base weight; official manufacturer GVWR unrecorded). Avoid adding excess ballast beyond this benchmark to protect axle bearings and chassis.
Instant Used Market Valuation Projector
Algorithmic resale estimate for Empire 88 (1946)
Direct Segment Rivals & Showdowns
Head-to-head match-ups calibrated by horsepower and era
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Empire
USA • 2 Models
The Empire Tractor Corporation was a short-lived American agricultural machinery manufacturer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1946, the company emerged in the post-World War II era, capitalizing on the surplus of military equipment and components available for civilian use. Empire tractors were notable for their use of repurposed Willys Jeep engines and other war-surplus parts, which were intended to provide a cost-effective solution for small-scale farmers. However, the tractors faced significant challenges in the marketplace. They were priced too high to compete effectively with other small tractors, yet lacked the power and performance to match larger models. This left Empire in a difficult position, unable to carve out a distinct niche. Despite their innovative use of military components, the tractors suffered from functional limitations, particularly in terms of power-to-weight ratio and overall durability. By 1948, just two years after their debut, Empire Tractor Corporation ceased production and filed for bankruptcy, marking the end of its brief existence. The company's story is a cautionary tale of the difficulties in repurposing military technology for civilian applications and the competitive pressures of the post-war agricultural machinery market.
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