Historical Significance:
The Farmall M series represented a significant advancement in tractor technology and utility, becoming a workhorse for American agriculture.
Key Competitors:
John Deere (Model A/B/G), Ford-Ferguson (2N/9N), Oliver (70/80), Case (SC/DC).
Versatility:
Designed for a wide range of agricultural tasks, from plowing and planting to harvesting and mowing, with various implement attachments.
Power And Torque:
Delivered robust power output relative to its size and era, suitable for demanding field operations.
User Friendliness:
Emphasis on operator comfort and ease of control for its time, contributing to its widespread adoption.
Engine Service:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, cooling system, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment and repair (gasoline models), Injection pump and injector service (diesel models), fuel filters, fuel lines.
Clutch And Transmission:
Clutch replacement and adjustment, transmission disassembly and reassembly, gear selection, PTO operation.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, starting motor, charging system, lighting.
Hydraulics:
Hydraulic pump, control valves, lift mechanism, cylinder service.
Braking System:
Brake band adjustment, brake shoe replacement, brake mechanism service.
Steering System:
Steering gear adjustment and repair, linkages.
Rear Axle And Final Drive:
Differential service, axle shafts, final drive gears.
Front Axle And Steering Knuckles:
Front wheel bearings, kingpins, steering knuckle service.
Cooling System:
Radiator service, water pump, thermostat, hoses.
Routine Maintenance:
Lubrication points and schedule, fluid level checks, filter replacement, belt tensioning.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Engine Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for full engine overhaul, including piston, ring, bearing, and valve replacement.
Hydraulic System Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for repairing and calibrating the hydraulic lift and auxiliary services.
Transmission Repair:
Complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of the sliding gear transmission.
Wiring Diagrams Interpretation:
Clear, understandable electrical schematics for diagnosing and repairing electrical issues.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to full unit overhauls and major component rebuilds.
Diagnostic Information:
Detailed troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, and diagnostic procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners throughout the tractor.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specific measurements for component clearances and wear limits during rebuilds.
Engine Make:
International
Engine Model Gasoline:
C-248
Engine Model Diesel:
D-248
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, Overhead Valve
Displacement:
248 cubic inches (4.06 Liters)
Bore:
3.875 inches (98.4 mm)
Stroke:
5.25 inches (133.4 mm)
Cooling System:
Water Cooled
Compression Ratio Gasoline:
Approx. 6.5:1
Compression Ratio Diesel:
Approx. 16:1
Fuel Type:
Gasoline (M, MV) / Diesel (MD, MDV)
Rated Engine Speed:
1450 RPM (Governed)
Drawbar Horsepower Gasoline:
33 hp
Belt Horsepower Gasoline:
36 hp
Drawbar Horsepower Diesel:
33 hp
Belt Horsepower Diesel:
37 hp
Governor Type:
Mechanical
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Gravity feed with Fuel Pump (optional/later models)
Carburetor Model Gasoline:
Marvel-Schebler (typical, specific model varies)
Fuel Delivery Diesel:
Injection Pump
Injection Pump Model Diesel:
Caterpillar or Roosa Master (typical, specific model varies)
Transmission Type:
Sliding Gear, Constant Mesh
Gear Ratios Forward:
5 Speed
Gear Ratios Reverse:
1 Speed
Drive Type:
2-Wheel Drive (Rear Wheel Drive)
Clutch Type:
Single Plate, Dry
Pto Gearbox:
Standard PTO drive available, engagement via clutch and lever.
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 90 is common, refer to manual for exact specifications)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8-10 quarts (refer to manual)
Historical Safety Standards:
Tractors of this era were built to different safety standards than modern equipment. The manual focuses on safe operation and maintenance practices as understood at the time of production.
Operator Visibility:
Designed for good visibility of the work area, though modern standards for ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structures) and FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structures) are not present.
Brake System:
Mechanical contracting band brakes, requiring proper adjustment and maintenance for effective stopping.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 50 hours of operation or annually (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change or as specified by filter manufacturer.
Air Cleaner Service:
Regularly depending on operating conditions; clean or replace element frequently.
Grease Points:
Daily or weekly lubrication of various points including wheel bearings, kingpins, hitch points, and PTO shaft.
Engine Oil Gasoline:
API SAE 30 or SAE 10W-30 (depending on temperature, refer to manual for exact specifications).
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CD or MIL-L-2104A SAE 30 or SAE 10W-30 (depending on temperature, refer to manual for exact specifications).
Coolant Type:
Water with rust inhibitor or antifreeze solution suitable for the operating climate.
Hydraulic Fluid:
Tractor Hydraulic Fluid (THF) or equivalent, or specified gear oil (refer to manual).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, brake band wear, kingpin wear, PTO spline wear, water pump seals, carburetor needle and seat.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug function (if equipped), injection pump calibration, injector nozzle maintenance.
Gasoline Specific Issues:
Carburetor gumming, ignition coil failure, spark plug fouling.
Electrical System Issues:
Worn wiring insulation, generator/alternator output issues, starter motor wear.
Manufacturer:
International Harvester Company (IHC)
Predecessor M:
McCormick-Deering Farmall F-30
Successor M:
McCormick Farmall Super M
Predecessor Mv:
McCormick-Deering Farmall F-30 Cane Tractor
Successor Mv:
McCormick Farmall Super MV
Predecessor Md:
New model
Successor Md:
McCormick Farmall Super MD
Predecessor Mdv:
New Model
Successor Mdv:
McCormick Farmall Super MDV
Production Years:
1939-1952
Total Production All Models:
282,911 (includes M, MV, MD, MDV variants)
Manufacturing Location:
Tractor Works, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Nebraska Test Number M Mv:
328
Nebraska Test Number Md Mdv:
368
Original Cost M:
$1112 (1941), $2346 (1952)
Original Cost Md:
$3335 (1952)
Industry Recognition:
The Farmall M series is widely recognized as one of the most iconic and influential tractors of the 20th century, revolutionizing farm mechanization.
Nebraska Test Performance:
Consistent performance ratings in Nebraska Tractor Tests highlighting drawbar and belt power capabilities, efficiency, and reliability.
Historical Certifications:
N/A - Modern certification standards did not apply during production.