Market Position:
The IH Farmall Cub and Cub Lo-Boy were designed as versatile, compact, and economical utility tractors for small farms, gardens, and estates. They offered a balance of power and maneuverability for their era.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with similar light-duty tractors from manufacturers like John Deere (e.g., Model B variants), Ford (e.g., 8N), and Allis-Chalmers. The Cub's longevity and widespread appeal underscore its success in this segment.
Key Features:
Compact size, reliable C-60 engine, versatile Fast-Hitch system, optional Touch-Control hydraulic lift, PTO drive, and a wide range of attachments for various tasks. The Lo-Boy variant offered a lower center of gravity for increased stability.
Coverage Areas:
Operation, Maintenance, Lubrication, Specifications, Troubleshooting, Safety, Minor Engine Service, Electrical System, Fuel System, Clutch, Brakes, Transmission, PTO, Fast-Hitch, Tires, Controls, Air Cleaning, Cold Weather, Storage, Accessories
Page Count:
Not specified, but described as 'complete' with detailed diagrams and specifications, implying substantial content.
Manual Type:
Owners Operators Maintenance Manual (Instruction/User Manual)
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
PDF Quality Enhancements:
Improved Quality PDF
Systems Covered:
Gasoline Engine, Gasoline Fuel System, Lubrication System, Air Cleaning System, Electrical System (including ignition and starting), Clutch, Brake System, Front Wheel Assembly, Rear Wheel Assembly, Pneumatic Tires, PTO (Power Take-Off), Touch-Control System (hydraulic lift), Fast-Hitch System.
Procedures Included:
Proper break-in procedures, daily care and operation, preventive maintenance, lubrication procedures and schedules, minor engine service operations, troubleshooting common issues, starting and driving the tractor, hitching trailing equipment, storing the tractor, cold weather precautions, adjustments to various systems, installation of accessories and extra equipment.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering both operator-level information and detailed maintenance procedures. Includes manufacturer specifications and diagrams for technical accuracy.
Troubleshooting Section:
Includes a dedicated 'Trouble Shooting' section to help diagnose and resolve common operational problems.
Extra Equipment Coverage:
Covers available accessories and extra equipment, assisting owners with understanding and utilizing optional features.
Illustrations Included:
Yes, includes lots of pictures, diagrams, illustrations, and charts.
Print Quality:
Improved Quality PDF, Searchable Text, Bookmarked, Indexed.
Binding Type:
Digital Download (Not applicable to physical binding)
Paper Type:
Digital (Not applicable to physical paper type)
Engine Model:
International Harvester C-60
Engine Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV) Inline 4-Cylinder Gasoline Engine
Horsepower Rated:
Approximately 9.25 drawbar HP, 14.5 belt HP (varies slightly by source and specific configuration).
Bore Stroke:
3.0" x 3.75" (76.2 mm x 95.3 mm)
Carburetor Type:
Marvel-Schebler (specific model usually TSX or similar)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
4 U.S. Quarts (including filter)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 30 (seasonal variations may apply, e.g., 10W-30 in colder weather)
Cooling System Type:
Liquid Cooled (Water)
Ignition System Type:
Battery Ignition (Distributor, Coil, Spark Plugs)
Transmission Type:
Sliding Gear, Manual Transmission
Number Of Gears:
4 Forward, 1 Reverse
Clutch Type:
Single Plate Dry Clutch
Rear Axle Type:
Bevel Gear and Pinion Drive with Differential Lock
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 80W-90)
Transmission Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 10 U.S. Quarts
Overall Length:
Approximately 94 inches (239 cm)
Overall Width:
Varies with wheel tread setting, typically around 54 inches (137 cm) at widest point.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 51.5 inches (131 cm)
Shipping Weight Lbs:
Approximately 1100 lbs (499 kg)
Operating Weight Lbs:
Approximately 1250-1350 lbs (567-612 kg) depending on configuration.
Front Tire Size:
4.00-12 or 4.50-12 (common)
Rear Tire Size:
8.3-24 or 9.5-24 (common)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4-bolt pattern on rear wheels (typical).
Safety Focus:
Manual includes dedicated 'Safety Instructions' and 'Before Operating The Tractor' sections emphasizing safe operation, awareness of surroundings, and proper use of controls and attachments.
Active Safety Features Mentioned:
Brake system, clutch for disengaging power, PTO shield (implied), operator presence considerations.
Passive Safety Features Mentioned:
Stable tractor design (especially Lo-Boy variant), operator manual with safety precautions.
Infotainment System:
Not applicable to this era of tractor; basic controls and instruments only.
Driver Assistance Features:
Not applicable. Operator's primary interface is mechanical controls.
Connectivity Options:
Not applicable.
Hydraulic Control System:
Touch-Control System (IH's early hydraulic draft control system for implement depth adjustment).
Electrical Voltage:
6-Volt Electrical System (typical for this production period).
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 50 operating hours or annually, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for precise interval).
Transmission Oil Change:
Recommended annually or every 500 operating hours. (Refer to manual for precise interval).
Air Cleaner Service:
Daily or weekly depending on operating conditions (cleaning/emptying oil bath type).
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
IH Hytran or equivalent hydraulic/transmission fluid. (Refer to manual for specific IH part number if applicable).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze solution. (Refer to manual for specific mixture ratio).
Common Issues:
Wear on clutch components, carburetor adjustment issues, potential leaks in hydraulic system (Touch-Control), carburetor gumming from infrequent use, electrical system component aging (e.g., points, condenser, wiring).
Preventive Maintenance Guide:
Manual contains a dedicated 'Preventive Maintenance Guide' section, highlighting regular checks and servicing to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
Tune Up Coverage:
Manual is suitable for tune-ups, covering spark plug gap, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, and filter replacements.
Brand Heritage:
International Harvester (IH) was a major American manufacturer of agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and trucks. Founded in 1902, IH played a significant role in the mechanization of agriculture.
Model Evolution:
The Farmall Cub was introduced in 1947 as an all-purpose tractor for small farms. The Cub Lo-Boy variant, introduced in 1955, featured a lower profile and was particularly well-suited for mowing and other tasks requiring a lower center of gravity, often utilizing specialized decks or equipment.
Production Years:
Farmall Cub: 1947-1963. Cub Lo-Boy: 1955-1963.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily Rock Island, Illinois).
