Target Audience:
Owners and operators of Ford 600 and 800 series tractors from the 1957-1962 model years seeking practical guidance for operation and maintenance.
Historical Significance:
These tractors were workhorses for a generation of farmers, known for their robust construction and versatility in a wide range of agricultural tasks.
Manual Utility:
Designed to complement the Ford Tractor Shop Manual by providing essential operator-level information for day-to-day use and routine upkeep, enhancing the user's ability to maintain their tractor effectively.
Document Origin:
This is an exact scanned manual, preserving the original content and layout of the manufacturer's documentation.
Value Proposition:
Offers a cost-effective way for owners to access crucial operational and maintenance data for a specific range of classic Ford tractors, crucial for preserving their functionality and value.
Applicability:
Ford Tractors 600 and 800 Series
Years Covered:
1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962
Model Variations Covered:
Covers the broad 600 and 800 series which included various configurations like utility tractors, row-crop tractors, and potentially industrial variants, though specific sub-models might have slight variations in features.
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual / Operator's Manual
Supplementary Nature:
Explicitly recommended as a supplement to the 'FORD TRACTOR SHOP MANUAL 600 700 800 900 601 701 801 901 1801 SERIES - SERVICE / REPAIR MANUAL / SHOP MANUAL', indicating its focus is on operator use and lighter maintenance.
Print Quality:
Scanned Original. Quality of scan can vary, but content is representative of the original document.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Primary Systems:
• Tractor Controls and Instruments
• Tractor Operation
• General Maintenance
• Tune-up Procedures
• Accessories
Accessories Covered:
Details on the operation and basic maintenance of factory-installed accessories typical for the era, such as lighting systems, specific hitch types, or PTO guards.
Chassis And Running Gear:
• Steering system (basic checks)
• Brake system (basic checks and adjustments)
• Wheel and tire maintenance (inflation, inspection)
Electrical Systems Covered:
• Battery maintenance
• Lighting system (if applicable)
• Ammeters and basic circuit checks
Maintenance Procedures:
• Daily Checks
• Weekly Checks
• Monthly Checks
• Seasonal Checks
• Lubrication Schedules
• Fluid Level Checks and Replenishment
• Filter Replacements (e.g., Oil, Fuel, Air)
• Cooling System Maintenance
• Battery Maintenance
• Tire Pressure and Maintenance
• Brake System Inspection
Operational Procedures:
• Starting and Stopping Procedures
• Gear Shifting and Clutch Operation
• Hydraulic System Operation (if applicable to this manual's scope)
• PTO (Power Take-Off) Operation
• Implement Attachment and Operation Guidance
• Safe Operating Practices
Tune Up Procedures:
• Ignition timing adjustment
• Spark plug replacement and gapping
• Carburetor adjustment (basic)
• Ignition timing
• Valve clearance adjustment (potentially, depending on depth)
Storage Procedures:
Guidance on preparing the tractor for long-term storage, including fuel system stabilization, battery care, and protection from elements.
Depth Of Coverage:
Focuses on operator-level maintenance, routine checks, and safe operation. Provides essential information for day-to-day use and upkeep. Less focused on in-depth mechanical repair or complex diagnostics, which would typically be found in a shop/service manual.
Troubleshooting Scope:
Provides guidance on identifying common operational problems and their likely causes from an operator's perspective. May offer basic checks to rule out simple issues.
Repair Scope:
Does not cover detailed component disassembly, repair, or overhaul. Focus is on operational checks and routine adjustments.
Engine Family Reference:
Ford 134/160/172/192 cubic inch OHV gasoline engines (Specific displacement varies by exact model within 600/800 series, and potentially diesel variants exist, though this manual focuses on gasoline operation/maintenance).
Typical Horsepower Range:
Approx. 30-50 PTO horsepower (Varies by specific engine and model variant).
Engine Torque:
Approx. 110-150 lb-ft (Varies by engine variant).
Carburetor Type:
Single-barrel updraft or downdraft carburetor (specific make/model like Zenith, Marvel-Schebler varies).
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 10-14 gallons (Varies by model and fuel tank configuration).
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled (Thermosiphon or Pump circulation depending on specific variant).
Radiator Capacity:
Approx. 3-4 gallons (Varies).
Ignition Type:
Battery-coil ignition with mechanical distributor.
Transmission Type:
Ford 4-speed or 5-speed constant mesh manual transmission (specific configurations varied).
Optional Features:
Select-O-Speed transmission (available on some higher series models, may or may not be covered in detail by this specific operator's manual, often detailed in separate manuals).
Gear Selection:
Standard shift patterns with clutch operation.
Typical Operating Weight:
Approx. 3,000 - 4,500 lbs (Varies by model and configuration).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 72-82 inches (Varies by model).
Front Axle Weight:
Approx. 1,200 - 1,600 lbs (Varies).
Rear Axle Weight:
Approx. 1,800 - 2,900 lbs (Varies).
Operator Safety:
Emphasis on safe starting, stopping, shifting, and operation of implements. Guidance on proper use of controls.
Tractor Design:
Basic tractor design features of the era, focus on operator awareness and understanding of tractor behavior.
Dashboard Features:
Basic instrument cluster including ammeter, oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge, and speedometer. Focus is on operational status, not entertainment.
Operator Aids:
No electronic driver assistance systems. Operator relies on mechanical controls and experience.
Electrical System:
12-volt electrical system for starting and lighting (if equipped).
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 50-75 operating hours or annually, depending on operating conditions. Refer to specific engine recommendations within the manual.
Air Filter Service:
Check and clean at 10-20 operating hours, replace as needed. More frequent cleaning in dusty conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval, typically checked/replaced when refueling issues occur or at set intervals (e.g., annually).
Radiator Flush:
Recommended annually or bi-annually, or as needed based on coolant condition.
Final Drive Lubrication:
Check and maintain lubricant levels as per manual, typically with a gear oil.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service Classification SC or SD, SAE 30 or 20W-30 recommended (consult manual for precise viscosity based on ambient temperature).
Transmission Hydraulic Fluid:
Ford tractor oil, or equivalent API GL-4 rated multi-purpose lubricant. Refer to manual for specific part numbers and grades.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50 ratio) for freeze and corrosion protection.
Grease Type:
Lithium-based multi-purpose grease (e.g., NLGI Grade 2) for lubrication points.
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
Often the same as transmission oil for integrated hydraulic systems (refer to manual for specific Ford designations or API ratings).
Common Wear Items:
• Clutch wear
• Brake shoe wear
• Steering box wear
• Hydraulic seal leaks
• Ignition system components (points, condenser, spark plugs)
Carburetor Issues:
Tendency for gumming and blockage if fuel is not stabilized during storage, requiring cleaning and rebuilding.
Electrical Component Failure:
Age-related failure of wiring insulation, generator/alternator, starter motor, and battery.
Fuel System Contaminants:
Water and sediment in the fuel tank and filters are common issues, requiring regular draining and cleaning.
Manufacturer:
Ford Motor Company (Fordson Division/Tractor Division)
Series Development:
The 600 and 800 series were part of Ford's major tractor lineup evolution, building on earlier models and introducing improved designs for agricultural efficiency. They represent a significant step in post-war tractor technology and standardization.
Design Philosophy:
Ford's design during this period emphasized affordability, ease of maintenance, and practical utility, making their tractors popular across diverse farming operations.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured at Ford's tractor plants in the United States (e.g., Highland Park, Michigan; Romeo, Michigan).
