Market Position:
The Ford 8700 was a powerful and versatile tractor designed for heavy-duty agricultural applications, positioned as a robust workhorse in its class.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other major tractor manufacturers in the large horsepower agricultural segment, known for its durability and performance.
Key Features:
High horsepower engine, robust drivetrain, advanced hydraulic system for its time, comfortable operator station, designed for a wide range of farming tasks.
Pictorial Diagrams:
Contains extensive pictorial diagrams, exploded views, and photos to guide repair procedures.
Clarity Of Explanation:
Prepared for simplicity, allowing even less experienced personnel to perform satisfactory service.
Systems Covered:
Engine, transmission, hydraulics, electrical system, drivetrain, steering, braking system, chassis, operator station, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, PTO.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery maintenance, lighting circuits.
Hydraulics:
Hydraulic pump, control valves, cylinders, hoses, fluid filtration, troubleshooting hydraulic pressure issues, 3-point hitch operation.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, fan, coolant type and flush procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, lines, filters, injection pump, injectors, bleeding the system.
Chassis And Frame:
Details on frame integrity, drawbar mounting, and front axle components.
Operator Station:
Information on seat adjustments, controls, dashboard layout, and cab features (if equipped).
Power Take Off Pto:
PTO engagement, shaft maintenance, clutch adjustments, and troubleshooting PTO issues.
Procedures Included:
Detailed step-by-step repair and overhaul procedures, diagnostic testing, troubleshooting guides, adjustment procedures, component removal and installation, tightening torques, wear limits, service tool references.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic trees and common problem/solution charts for engine, transmission, hydraulics, and electrical faults.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed explanations for repairing or replacing major components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and hydraulic system component replacement.
Adjustment Procedures:
Engine idle speed, PTO engagement, clutch pedal free play, brake adjustments.
Component Disassembly Assembly:
Comprehensive guides for taking apart and putting back together various tractor sub-assemblies.
Technical Depth:
Includes specifications for critical wear tolerances, bearing clearances, and valve lash adjustments.
Factory Specifications:
Provides all essential factory specifications, torque values, and allowable limits for accurate repairs.
Service Tool Numbers:
References to specific Ford special service tools required for certain operations, including illustrations of their usage.
Primary Engine:
Ford 6.6L (401 cu in) 6-cylinder diesel engine. Specific engine codes and variants would be detailed within the manual.
Performance:
Engine power and torque specifications, including maximum RPMs and rated power outputs, are detailed in the manual.
Engine Performance Curves:
While not explicitly stated, such manuals often include power and torque curves for performance analysis.
Fuel System:
Information on fuel injection system, pump timing, filter replacement, and related diagnostics.
Injection Timing:
Precise specifications for diesel injection pump timing are critical and included.
Standard:
Typically equipped with a heavy-duty manual transmission, often a 16-speed (e.g., 8 forward, 8 reverse) or similar configuration.
Optional:
While less common, some variations might have featured different transmission options or power take-off (PTO) configurations.
Features:
Details on clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, and lubrication requirements for the transmission and differential.
Gear Ratios:
Detailed gear ratios for each forward and reverse gear for optimal performance analysis.
Ratings:
While formal crash ratings aren't applicable to tractors, the manual emphasizes safe operating practices, PTO safety, and rollover protection (ROPS) if applicable to the configuration.
Active Features:
Information on brake system operation, steering system checks, and safety interlocks.
Passive Features:
Emphasis on proper use of guards, shields, and the importance of ROPS (if fitted) for operator protection.
Service Intervals:
Comprehensive periodic maintenance schedules covering engine oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and system checks are provided.
Greasing Points:
Identification and recommended intervals for greasing all lubrication points throughout the tractor.
Fluid Specifications:
Detailed specifications for engine oil (viscosity grade, API classification), hydraulic fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and grease.
Fluid Capacities:
Approximate fluid capacities for engine oil, coolant, hydraulic system, and transmission are typically listed.
Known Issues:
The manual would address common wear points and potential issues specific to the 8700, such as hydraulic system performance, transmission wear, and engine component longevity, along with their diagnostic and repair procedures.
Common Wear Items:
Focus on areas like clutch wear, PTO clutch packs, seal failures, and engine component wear.
Filter Part Numbers:
Cross-reference or direct part numbers for oil, fuel, and hydraulic filters for easy replacement.
