Market Position:
The IH 806 was a significant model in International Harvester's tractor lineup, positioned as a versatile, robust utility tractor for medium-duty agricultural applications. It competed with models from John Deere, Ford, and Massey Ferguson.
Competitive Analysis:
The 806 offered a competitive blend of power, comfort, and features for its era, often praised for its strong diesel engines and reliable torque amplifier transmission. Its availability in both utility and row-crop configurations enhanced its market appeal.
Key Features:
Optional front-wheel assist (FWA), hydrostatic power steering, IH's Torque Amplifier transmission, various engine options (gasoline and diesel).
Operator Comfort Features:
Ergonomically designed controls, adjustable seat, and often a comfortable platform for extended use.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Hydraulics, Electrical System, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Power Steering, Brakes, PTO, Operator Station, Chassis, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but indicative of comprehensive coverage)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, specifications, troubleshooting for gasoline and diesel engines (e.g., C-263, D-282, D-354, D-360, D-414, D-421)
Transmission Systems:
Repair and overhaul of torque amplifier, powershift transmission, and final drives
Hydraulic Systems:
Repair of hydraulic pump, control valve, cylinders, and related components; troubleshooting of hydraulic issues
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, lighting system repair
Brake Systems:
Service and adjustment of internal expanding shoe brakes.
Front Axle Systems:
Repair and maintenance of both two-wheel drive and optional front-wheel drive axle configurations.
Operator Station:
Components related to the operator's seat, controls, and dashboard.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacement
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls, including engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, and hydraulic system fixes
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues
Troubleshooting Engine No Start:
Detailed steps for diagnosing fuel, ignition (gasoline), compression, and air intake issues.
Rebuild Procedures Engine:
Comprehensive overhaul instructions including crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, cylinder head, and valve train.
Diagnostic Procedures Hydraulic:
Testing hydraulic pressure, flow rates, and identifying leaks or internal bypasses.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including torque specifications, clearances, and alignment procedures.
Specifications Tables:
Includes detailed tables for all critical torque values, engine clearances, bearing preloads, and timing settings.
Wiring Diagrams:
Clear, comprehensive electrical schematics for all tractor configurations and options.
Engine Options:
International Harvester C-263 (gasoline), D-282 (diesel), D-354 (diesel), D-360 (diesel), D-414 (diesel), D-421 (diesel). Specific engine variant depends on tractor configuration.
Diesel Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Rated Engine Hp Diesel:
Approximately 71 PTO HP (D-360 variant, highly dependent on specific engine and configuration)
Rated Engine Hp Gasoline:
Approximately 65 PTO HP (C-263 variant, highly dependent on specific engine and configuration)
Drawbar Hp Diesel Approx:
Approximately 60 HP (D-360 variant, subject to configuration and testing)
Fuel System Type Diesel:
Direct Injection with Bosch or CAV injection pumps
Fuel System Type Gasoline:
Carbureted
Oil Type Diesel:
API CD or equivalent (e.g., SAE 30 or 15W-40 depending on ambient temperature)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol antifreeze mixture with distilled water (50/50 recommended)
Standard Transmission:
8-Speed Syncro-Mesh (non-Torque Amplifier models)
Optional Transmission:
Torque Amplifier (TA) - 16 speeds forward, 8 reverse
Torque Amplifier Function:
A clutch pack within the transmission that allows for on-the-go range shifting without depressing the main clutch pedal, effectively doubling the number of gears.
Transmission Fluid Type:
IH Hy-Trans Fluid or equivalent; consult manual for specific applications
Wheelbase Std Fwa:
Approx. 91.5 inches (Standard), 86 inches (FWA)
Overall Length Approx:
Approx. 130-140 inches (varies with configuration)
Ground Clearance Approx:
Approx. 15-20 inches (varies with tire size and configuration)
Operating Weight Approx:
Approx. 7,000 - 8,000 lbs (depending on configuration and options)
Pto Horsepower Range:
65-75 HP (depending on engine variant)
Safety Ratings:
As a tractor of its era, specific governmental safety ratings (like NHTSA) are not directly applicable. Safety relies on proper operation, maintenance, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines.
Active Safety Features:
Independent PTO, differential lock, power steering (optional FWA), robust braking system.
Passive Safety Features:
Heavy-duty chassis, metal bodywork, operator seat. Rollover protective structures (ROPS) were often aftermarket or dealer-installed options, not standard from the factory for early models.
Infotainment Features:
N/A - Primarily a functional agricultural tractor, features focus on operation and comfort, not entertainment.
Driver Assistance Features:
Power steering (standard on FWA models, optional on 2WD) was a significant comfort and ease-of-use feature. Independent PTO engagement for implements.
Connectivity Features:
N/A - No electronic connectivity features present.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 100-200 operating hours or annually, refer to manual for specific engine type
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Typically every 500-1000 operating hours, consult manual
Hydraulic System Fluid Type:
IH Hy-Trans Fluid or equivalent (check manual for specific application)
Engine Oil Capacity D360:
Approx. 8 quarts (with filter)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Ta:
Approx. 16-18 quarts (with TA)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 20-22 quarts
Engine Oil Viscosity Temp Range:
SAE 30 (0°C and above), SAE 10W (below 0°C), SAE 15W-40 (Multigrade, suitable for wider range)
Common Wear Points:
Torque amplifier clutch packs, hydraulic pump and seals, front axle pivot pins and bushings, PTO clutch, starter and alternator reliability.
Electrical System Challenges:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Generator/alternator output may require regular checking.
Engine Diesel Reliability:
IH diesel engines are generally robust, but injector pump timing, injector health, and glow plug systems are critical for starting and performance.
Hydraulic Performance:
Loss of hydraulic power or slow operation can be due to worn pump, internal leaks in cylinders or valves, or low fluid level.
Brand Heritage:
International Harvester (IH) was a prominent American manufacturer of agricultural and construction machinery, trucks, and automobiles. Founded in 1902, it was known for its durable and innovative products.
Model Evolution:
The 806 succeeded models like the 706 and was part of IH's extensive '06' series, which represented a significant advancement in tractor design, offering more power, comfort, and features compared to previous generations.
Production Years:
Approximately 1963-1967
Manufacturing Location:
USA (Primary)
