Historical Significance:
The McCormick-Deering 15-30 was a pivotal tractor in agricultural history, known for its reliability and power during its production era, bridging the gap between early tractors and more advanced models.
Key Competitors:
Fordson Model F, John Deere Model D, International Harvester Farmall (later models)
Tractor Features:
Robust construction, relatively powerful engine for its time, versatility for farming operations.
Benefits For Owner:
Empowers owners to perform complex maintenance and repairs, saving costs and extending the operational life of a classic tractor. Provides access to factory-level specifications and procedures.
Digital Advantages:
Instant download, compatibility across multiple devices, zoom and print functionality, improved navigation with bookmarks and index.
Primary Coverage:
Overhaul, Service, and Repair of the McCormick-Deering 15-30 Tractor
Secondary Coverage:
Component-level diagnostics, troubleshooting, and maintenance procedures
Estimated Page Count:
Not explicitly stated, but comprehensive overhaul manuals typically range from 200-500 pages.
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual / Overhaul Manual
Engine Systems:
Cooling system, Fuel system (Carburetor), Lubrication system (Oil Pump), Ignition system (Magneto & Ignition Timing), Valve train (Cam Shaft, Push Rods, Valves), Crankshaft, Connecting Rods & Bearings, Piston Rings, Cylinder Head, Cylinder Removal, Flywheel
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, Transmission, Differential, Axles, Final Drive, Bull Pinion Shaft, Wheels
Chassis And Controls:
Brakes, Steering Mechanism, Drawbar, Platform, Hood
Other Systems:
Air Cleaner, Belt Pulley, Fan, Fan Belt, Fuel Tank, Governor, Manifold & Muffler, Radiator, Spark Plugs, Water Outlet Manifold
Maintenance Procedures:
Lubrication, Cooling system cleaning, Air cleaner servicing, Ignition timing adjustment, Valve lash adjustment
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, Clutch replacement, Transmission overhaul, Brake relining, Steering system repair, Axle and differential rebuild
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common issues related to engine performance, fuel delivery, ignition, and drivetrain operation
Depth:
Comprehensive overhaul and repair, including detailed disassembly, reassembly, inspection, and adjustment procedures. Suitable for experienced mechanics and serious enthusiasts.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF due to 'Improved PDF' designation.
Printability:
Printable, allowing users to print specific pages or the entire manual.
Image Quality:
Improved quality with detailed illustrations and photos.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Navigation:
Fully Bookmarked chapters for easy navigation.
Indexing:
Indexed contents for quick access to specific service repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Four-cylinder, L-head (IOE - Inlet Over Exhaust) gasoline engine
Bore:
4.25 inches (107.95 mm)
Stroke:
5.50 inches (139.7 mm)
Displacement:
310.7 cubic inches (5.1 liters)
Rated Horsepower:
15 belt horsepower / 30 drawbar horsepower (hence the model designation)
Governed Speed:
Approximately 1000 RPM (engine idle typically lower)
Carburetor Type:
Various Zenith or equivalent models specified in the manual.
Ignition Type:
Magneto ignition (e.g., Wico EK, Edison-Splitdorf)
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled, typically with a thermosiphon system or early pump-driven circulation.
Type:
Sliding gear, constant mesh
Number Of Gears:
Typically 3 forward gears and 1 reverse gear.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios are detailed within the manual for each gear.
Clutch Type:
Single-plate dry clutch
Differential Lock:
Typically features a differential lock operated by a foot pedal or lever.
Length:
Approximately 128 inches (3251 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 78 inches (1981 mm)
Approximate Operating Weight:
Around 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg)
Front Tire Size:
Typically 6.00-16 or similar agricultural tire
Rear Tire Size:
Typically 11.25-24 or 13.00-24 agricultural tire
Infotainment System:
N/A (This is a vintage tractor, pre-dating infotainment systems.)
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (This is a vintage tractor, pre-dating driver assistance systems.)
Connectivity Options:
N/A (This is a vintage tractor, pre-dating electronic connectivity.)
Oil Change Frequency:
The manual will specify intervals based on operating hours or seasonal use, typically every 50-100 hours of operation for the engine oil.
Greasing Intervals:
Daily or weekly greasing of various points (e.g., steering, clutch linkage, drawbar pivot) is critical and detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
The manual will recommend specific SAE viscosity grades (e.g., SAE 10W, SAE 20W, SAE 30) based on ambient temperature. Early specifications might include straight-weight oils or even dedicated tractor oils.
Coolant Type:
Water-based coolant. Anti-freeze (alcohol or ethylene glycol based) may be recommended depending on climate, with specific ratios provided.
Transmission Oil Type:
The manual will specify appropriate gear oil (e.g., SAE 90 GL-1 or similar) for the transmission and final drives.
Common Wear Points:
Valve seat wear, piston ring wear, bearing wear in the crankshaft and transmission, clutch plate wear, magneto ignition issues (points, condenser), carburetor gumming, radiator leaks.
Common Problems:
Difficulty starting due to weak spark or fuel issues, rough idling, loss of power, overheating due to cooling system blockages, transmission slippage, brake fade.
Air Cleaner Service:
Regular cleaning and re-oiling of the oil-bath air cleaner is crucial for engine longevity and is a key procedure in the manual.
Manufacturer:
McCormick-Deering, a division of International Harvester
Predecessors:
Influenced by earlier International Harvester and Deering tractors. The 15-30 itself was a refinement and improvement on earlier designs.
Successors:
Eventually superseded by models like the Farmall F-20 and McCormick-Deering W series tractors.
Manufacturing Location:
Chicago, Illinois, USA (International Harvester's main manufacturing hub)
Key Innovations:
Popularized the concept of a powerful, reliable tractor for broad agricultural use, contributing significantly to mechanization.
Historical Impact:
Recognized as one of the most significant tractors of its era, credited with greatly advancing farm mechanization and productivity across North America.
Reliability:
Earned a reputation for robust construction and reliability, earning the nickname 'Old Reliable' among farmers.
Manufacturing Quality:
Manufactured under strict International Harvester quality control standards of the period, emphasizing durability and serviceability.
