Historical Context:
The Case VA tractor series was a foundational offering in Case's utility tractor line, known for its reliability and versatility in agricultural and industrial applications.
Target Audience:
Farm owners, mechanics, collectors, and restoration enthusiasts of vintage Case equipment.
Comparable Models:
Competed with similar utility tractors from manufacturers like John Deere (e.g., Model A, B series), Ford (e.g., 8N, 9N), and International Harvester (e.g., Farmall A, B series) of the same era.
Durability:
Known for robust construction and long service life, characteristic of Case agricultural machinery.
Simplicity:
Designed with straightforward mechanical systems, making it relatively accessible for maintenance and repair.
Versatility:
Adaptable to a range of implements through its PTO, hydraulic system, and hitch configurations.
Engine:
Full overhaul, including cylinder head, piston, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, and cooling systems.
Transmission:
Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all gearbox components, clutches, and PTO (Power Take-Off).
Hydraulic System:
Operation, troubleshooting, repair, and component testing of the hydraulic pump, control valve, cylinders, and associated lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter motor, generator/alternator, lighting, and battery system diagnostics.
Chassis And Running Gear:
Front axle, steering linkage, rear axle, differential, final drives, and wheel bearings.
Braking System:
Mechanical brake system inspection, adjustment, and repair.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, and thermostat inspection and replacement.
Fuel System:
Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, fuel pump, and fuel lines.
Controls:
Throttle, clutch, brake, and gear shift linkage adjustments and repairs.
Tune Up:
Complete tune-up procedures, including spark plug gap, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustment.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Transmission Rebuild:
Complete guide for dismantling, inspecting, and reassembling the transmission and associated components.
Hydraulic Component Testing:
Procedures for testing hydraulic pump output, relief valve settings, and cylinder performance.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, including component testing and wiring checks.
Brake Adjustment:
Correct methods for adjusting and maintaining the tractor's braking system.
Carburetor Adjustment:
Detailed instructions for setting idle speed, mixture, and float levels.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues and symptoms.
Lubrication Instructions:
Recommended lubrication points and types of lubricants.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting techniques.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, and procedural illustrations.
Engine Type:
Typically a 4-cylinder, L-head (flathead) or overhead valve gasoline or LP gas engine. Diesel variants were also available in later iterations or specific models.
Displacement:
Varies by specific VA model and engine option, commonly in the range of 130-150 cubic inches (approx. 2.1L to 2.5L).
Bore X Stroke:
Specifics depend on the exact engine variant, requiring consultation of the manual for precise figures.
Horsepower Rating:
Drawbar horsepower typically ranged from 25-35 HP, with PTO horsepower slightly higher.
Torque Rating:
Torque figures are model and engine specific; consult manual for precise data.
Fuel Type:
Gasoline, LP Gas, or Diesel depending on the tractor configuration.
Carburetor Model:
Often Zenith, Marvel-Schebler, or equivalent carburetor; manual will detail specific models and adjustments.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4-5 quarts (3.8-4.7 liters) with filter. Manual provides exact capacity.
Ignition Timing:
Typically specified in degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC). Manual provides precise settings.
Spark Plug Type:
Specific plug type and gap will be listed in the manual. Common types for the era include Champion, AC, or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
Typically a water-glycol mixture. Manual specifies recommended coolant ratios and types.
Transmission Type:
Constant mesh, sliding gear transmission with a manual shift lever.
Gear Configurations:
Typically 4 or 5 forward gears plus reverse. Some models may have creeper gears.
Power Take Off Pto:
Standard PTO, usually 540 RPM. May include live PTO on some configurations.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch, operated by a foot pedal.
Transmission Fluid Type:
SAE 80W-90 or SAE 90 gear oil, or specific Case approved lubricant. Manual provides precise specification.
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 20-30 pints (9.5-14.2 liters) for the transmission and differential. Manual will confirm exact capacity.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 40-60 operating hours or annually. Consult manual for exact interval and type.
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Check and clean regularly (e.g., weekly or daily depending on operating conditions). Replace as needed.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Replace annually or as recommended by the manual.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 1200 operating hours or every 2 years. Manual provides specific interval.
Engine Oil:
SAE 30 or SAE 10W-30 API CD or similar diesel engine oil. Consult manual for precise grade and API service classification.
Transmission Hydraulic Fluid:
SAE 80W-90 gear oil or Case TCH fluid. Manual provides exact specification.
Grease:
General purpose lithium-based grease for lubrication points.
Carburetor Leaks And Wear:
Common due to age; requires cleaning, adjustment, and potential rebuild kits.
Hydraulic System Leaks:
Can arise from worn seals in pumps, cylinders, or valve assemblies.
Ignition System Reliability:
Points, condenser, and distributor wear can affect performance; requires regular tuning and potential replacement.
Clutch Wear:
Friction material wear necessitates clutch replacement over time.
Steering Component Wear:
Kingpins, tie rods, and steering box can develop play, affecting steering precision.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Due to worn piston rings or valve guides, common in older engines.
Case Ih Legacy:
J.I. Case Company, founded in 1842, has a long and storied history in agricultural machinery manufacturing, known for innovation and durability.
Va Series Introduction:
The VA series tractors were introduced in the mid-1940s and evolved through various updates and configurations (VA, VAC, VAH, VAI, VAS, VAO) until the early 1950s.
Key Variants:
VAC (Cultivator), VAH (High Crop), VAI (Industrial), VAS (Standard), VAO (Orchard) were specialized versions of the base VA design.
Production Period:
Mid-1940s to early 1950s.
Manufacturing Location:
Racine, Wisconsin, USA (J.I. Case Company's primary manufacturing facility).
