Segment:
Compact Utility Tractor / Grounds Maintenance Tractor
Competitors:
Similar models from John Deere, Kubota, Massey Ferguson, New Holland in the compact tractor segment
Features:
Robust build for demanding applications, user-friendly controls, versatile for mowing, landscaping, and light utility tasks.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation, differential, drive shafts, PTO (Power Take-Off)
Hydraulics:
Hydraulic system operation, lift arms, steering hydraulics, auxiliary hydraulic circuits
Electrical:
Battery system, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrument panel, fuses
Operator Station:
Controls, seat adjustment, safety features, dashboard layout
Chassis And Steering:
Front axle, rear axle, steering mechanism, brakes
Tires And Wheels:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel bolt torque specifications.
Operation:
Pre-operation checks, starting and stopping procedures, safe operating practices, field operation
Maintenance:
Lubrication points and schedule, fluid level checks, filter replacements, greasing procedures
Troubleshooting:
Basic troubleshooting guides for common operational issues
Safety:
Safety warnings, personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations, hazard identification
Adjustments:
Brake pedal adjustment, clutch pedal adjustment (if applicable), PTO engagement adjustments.
Lubrication:
Detailed diagrams of all lubrication points (grease fittings, oil fill points, inspection plugs) and recommended lubricants/greases.
Depth:
Comprehensive operator guidance, daily/weekly maintenance, basic adjustments, safe usage instructions.
Diagnostic Capability:
Basic diagnostic guidance for common problems, not in-depth electronic diagnostics.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable if properly OCR'd, allowing users to quickly find specific topics.
Printability:
High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Recommendation:
N/A (Digital Format) - Standard printer paper recommended for printing
Manufacturer:
Likely Shibaura or Yanmar (common for Ransomes in this era), or a proprietary Ransomes engine.
Configuration:
Likely 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Displacement:
Estimated 1.3L - 1.8L (approx. 80-110 cubic inches), specific to 350DX designation.
Horsepower Gross:
Estimated 30-35 HP (Gross), specific to model year and configuration.
Torque:
Estimated 60-75 lb-ft @ 2000-2500 RPM (typical for this displacement/HP range).
Governed Speed:
Typically 2600-2800 RPM
Injection Type:
Indirect Injection (IDI) or Direct Injection (DI) depending on engine variant.
Fuel Capacity:
Estimated 8-12 gallons (30-45 Liters)
Type:
Hydrostatic Transmission (HST)
Speed Control:
Variable speed via foot pedal (forward/reverse)
Type:
Manual Transmission (e.g., 8-speed or 12-speed shuttle shift) may be an option on some variants.
Drive Modes:
2WD (Two-Wheel Drive) standard, 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) likely optional
Differential Lock:
Rear differential lock typically standard or optional
Pto:
Rear PTO (Power Take-Off), likely 540 RPM standard. Mid-PTO may be optional.
Length:
Estimated 100-120 inches (250-300 cm) without implements
Width:
Estimated 50-60 inches (125-150 cm) depending on tires
Height:
Estimated 70-80 inches (175-200 cm) to top of steering wheel/seat
Operating Weight:
Estimated 2500-3500 lbs (1134-1588 kg) without operator or ballast
Wheelbase:
Estimated 65-75 inches (165-190 cm)
Rollover Protection:
ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure) typically standard, may be foldable or removable.
Braking System:
Wet disc brakes, foot pedal operated
Parking Brake:
Independent parking brake mechanism
Seatbelt:
Operator seatbelt (often 2-point or 3-point)
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, work lights (depending on configuration)
Operator Presence System:
Likely included, preventing operation if operator is not seated.
Features:
Basic analog instrumentation: tachometer, engine temperature gauge, oil pressure warning light, battery charge warning light, fuel gauge. No advanced infotainment systems expected.
Features:
Limited; primarily focus on essential controls for safe operation. No electronic driver aids.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 100-200 operating hours or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Check:
Daily or every 50 operating hours.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 200-400 operating hours or annually.
Hydraulic Fluid Change:
Every 500-1000 operating hours or every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API CD/CE or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Estimated 4.0 - 5.5 quarts (3.8 - 5.2 Liters) with filter change.
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
Tractor Hydraulic Fluid (THF), Universal Tractor Transmission Oil (UTTO), or equivalent ISO VG 32/46 hydraulic oil.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type:
As specified for the hydrostatic transmission, likely a dedicated HST fluid or approved UTTO.
Common Issues:
Wear on PTO spline, hydraulic pump aging, starter motor reliability, corrosion on older models, potential overheating if cooling system is neglected.
Heritage:
Ransomes is a historic British manufacturer with a long lineage in agricultural and turf care equipment, known for quality and durability.
Evolution:
The Commander series represents Ransomes' focus on compact, efficient tractors for professional groundskeeping, municipal work, and light agricultural tasks. Specific model variants like the 350DX would have evolved with engine upgrades, transmission improvements, and operator comfort features over production years.
Production Period:
Likely produced from the late 1980s through the 1990s or early 2000s. Precise years would depend on specific serial numbers.
