Positioning:
The International Harvester 826 was a popular and robust tractor designed for a wide range of agricultural applications, often competing with models from John Deere, Case, and Ford during its production era.
Target Audience:
The 826 was aimed at medium to large farms requiring a powerful and versatile tractor for a variety of tasks including plowing, cultivating, harvesting, and loader work.
Competitors:
Direct competitors included models like the John Deere 3020/4020, Case 930/1030, and Ford 5000/7000 series tractors.
Features:
Known for its strong diesel engines, reliable transmission options (including Power Shift), and capable hydraulic systems, making it a versatile workhorse on the farm.
Engine Durability:
The IH D-series engines are renowned for their robust design and longevity when properly maintained.
Power Shift Transmission:
The optional 'Dyna-Life' or similar Power Shift transmission provided seamless gear changes under load, a significant advantage for fieldwork.
Engine:
Detailed information on engine overhaul, tuning, fuel systems, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust
Transmission:
Service, repair, and overhaul procedures for the transmission (e.g., power shift, manual), clutch, and drivetrain components
Hydraulics:
Comprehensive coverage of the hydraulic system, including pumps, valves, cylinders, and the three-point hitch
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for starting and charging systems, lighting, and instrumentation
Brakes:
Service and repair of the braking system, including brake adjustments and component replacement
Steering:
Procedures for steering system maintenance and repair
Front Axle:
Service and repair of the front axle and associated components
Rear Axle And Differential:
Detailed repair and overhaul procedures for the rear axle and differential
Power Take Off Pto:
Service and repair of the PTO system
Chassis And Body:
Information on chassis components and basic bodywork
Operator Controls:
Description and function of all controls, levers, and pedals.
Cooling System:
Service and repair of radiator, thermostat, water pump, and fan.
Lubrication System:
Details on oil pump, filter, and lubrication points.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, greasing schedules
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon problems
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, hydraulic system repairs
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing all major and minor components
Adjustments:
Brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, valve adjustments (if applicable)
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for troubleshooting and repair
Engine Overhaul:
Step-by-step procedures for complete engine teardown, inspection, part replacement, and reassembly, including torque specifications.
Transmission Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, and rebuilding both manual and Power Shift transmissions, including clutch pack replacement and gear train servicing.
Hydraulic System Repair:
Guidance on diagnosing and repairing issues with the main hydraulic pump, control valves, lift arms, remote hydraulic couplers, and associated lines and cylinders.
Electrical System Diagnostics:
Includes troubleshooting trees for starting, charging, lighting, and instrument panel issues, supported by detailed wiring schematics.
Pre Delivery Inspection:
Procedures for preparing a new tractor for use.
Tire Inflation Pressure:
Specifications for correct tire pressures for various operating conditions.
Depth:
Factory-level detail covering diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications
Diagnostic Tools Required:
While specialized diagnostic equipment wasn't common, the manual would specify basic tools like multimeters, pressure gauges, and feeler gauges for precise adjustments.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive lists of torque specifications for critical fasteners across all major components.
Alignment Procedures:
Information on front-end alignment where applicable.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Diagnostic flowcharts to quickly identify root causes of problems.
Specifications Charts:
Comprehensive tables of all technical data, tolerances, and specifications.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 100-200 operating hours, depending on operating conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for precise intervals and oil type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual, typically at 600 or 1200 operating hours depending on application.
Hydraulic Fluid Change:
Refer to manual, often coinciding with transmission fluid changes.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; commonly SAE 15W-30 or 10W-30 diesel engine oil meeting specific API service classifications (e.g., CD, CE).
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; IH Hy-Trans fluid or equivalent UTTO (Universal Tractor Transmission Oil) is typically specified.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; for Power Shift, IH Hy-Trans or equivalent UTTO is usually required.
Coolant Type:
Refer to manual; typically a heavy-duty diesel engine coolant (e.g., 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water with appropriate additives).
Final Drive Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically the same as transmission fluid (UTTO).
Common Problems:
Wear on Power Shift clutches, hydraulic pump issues, potential for injector pump wear, and general maintenance needs common to older heavy equipment.