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
- International Harvester
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
- Rated horsepower
- 38 hp
- Rated PTO Power
- 36.07 hp (Farmall specification)
- Drawbar Power @ Rated Engine Speed
- 33.1 hp (Nebraska OECD Test 2218)
- Cylinders
- 4
- Displacement
- 4.1 L (247.7 ci)
- Bore / stroke
- 3.875x5.25 inches 98 x 133 mm
- Rated RPM
- 1450 RPM
- Crankcase oil capacity
- 8 qts (~7.6 L)
- Coolant capacity
- 24 qts (~22.7 L)
Maintenance picks for the M
Oil capacity 8 qts — match the filter before you drain.
Transmission and chassis specifications
- Transmission type
- Sliding gear (5F/1R)
- Gears (forward / reverse)
- 5 forward / 1 reverse
- Drive system
- 2WD
- Wheelbase
- 88.5 in
- Front tire
- 6.00-16
- Rear tire
- 11-38
- Hydraulic flow
- N/A
- Rear hitch
- N/A
Implement Draft & Ballast Matcher
Simulate draft resistance, drawbar power transfer, and optimal axle weight distribution for Farmall M.
Engine demand (83.4 HP) exceeds rated power (38 HP). Reduce working speed by 1.0-1.5 mph or reduce working width.
Catalog archival serial-number ranges
| Production year | Starting serial # | Ending serial # | Assembly plant |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1939 | #501 | #7,239 | Factory not specified |
| 1940 | #7,240 | #25,370 | Factory not specified |
| 1941 | #25,371 | #50,987 | Factory not specified |
| 1942 | #50,988 | #60,010 | Factory not specified |
| 1943 | #60,011 | #67,423 | Factory not specified |
| 1944 | #67,424 | #88,084 | Factory not specified |
| 1945 | #88,085 | #105,563 | Factory not specified |
| 1946 | #105,564 | #122,822 | Factory not specified |
| 1947 | #122,823 | #151,707 | Factory not specified |
| 1948 | #151,708 | #180,513 | Factory not specified |
| 1949 | #180,514 | #213,578 | Factory not specified |
| 1950 | #213,579 | #247,517 | Factory not specified |
| 1951 | #247,518 | #290,922 | Factory not specified |
| 1952 | #290,923 | End of run | Factory not specified |
Instant Used Market Valuation Projector
Algorithmic resale estimate for Farmall M (1939)
Direct Segment Rivals & Showdowns
Head-to-head match-ups calibrated by horsepower and era
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Farmall
USA • 74 Models
Farmall is a well-known brand in the agricultural machinery and lawn equipment sector, with a history dating back to 1924. It is recognized for its iconic red tractors and a range of farming equipment that has been pivotal in the evolution of modern agriculture. The brand was initially developed by International Harvester, which was a major player in the agricultural machinery industry. Farmall tractors were particularly famous for their versatility and reliability, making them a popular choice among farmers for several decades. The brand's product line included a variety of tractors, as well as other farming implements and machinery designed to improve agricultural productivity. Over the years, Farmall's parent company underwent several changes, and the brand eventually became part of Case IH, a leading manufacturer in the agricultural equipment industry. Despite these changes, Farmall has maintained its reputation for quality and innovation. Today, the brand continues to be associated with durable and efficient farming equipment, serving both small-scale and large-scale agricultural operations. Its legacy is a testament to its enduring impact on the agricultural sector.
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