Historical Significance:
The Farmall M series tractors were workhorses of American agriculture, renowned for their versatility and durability.
Key Competitors Era:
John Deere Model A/B, Ford-Ferguson 9N/2N, Minneapolis-Moline Z series.
Universal Design:
Farmall design prioritized operator visibility and control, with features like the culti-vision platform.
Engine Options:
Offered both gasoline (M, MV) and diesel (MD, MDV) variants to suit different operational needs and fuel availability.
Variant Differences:
MV and MDV models were equipped with tricycle front ends for row-crop cultivation.
Engine Components:
Crankshaft, pistons, valves, camshaft, cooling system components, fuel system components (carburetor/injector pump for diesel).
Transmission Components:
Gears, shafts, bearings, clutch assembly, PTO components.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame components, drawbar hitch, front axle, steering components.
Electrical System:
Ignition system components, lighting, starter, generator (if applicable).
Hydraulic System:
Components for any factory-installed hydraulic lift systems.
Bodywork And Sheet Metal:
Hood, fenders, grille, dashboard, seat components.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel hubs, rims, lug bolts.
Part Identification:
Detailed exploded drawings for visual identification of all parts.
Part Number Reference:
Includes official International Harvester part numbers for ordering.
Assembly Guidance:
Exploded drawings facilitate correct assembly of components.
Part Quantities:
Specifies the number of each part used per vehicle.
Model Application:
Details which parts are applicable to specific Farmall M, MV, MD, MDV models.
Year Application:
Indicates when specific part revisions or changes were implemented by year.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive component-level cataloging, essential for parts identification and procurement.
Diagnostic Level:
Not a diagnostic manual; focuses solely on part identification and specifications.
Safety Standards Era:
Safety standards were significantly less stringent than modern equipment; focus was on operator protection via robust construction.
Braking System:
Mechanical drum brakes (typical for the era), rear-wheel operated.
Operator Station:
Open operator station; no factory ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) or seatbelts originally installed.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Refer to original service manual; typically every 50-100 operating hours or annually.
Gearbox Oil Change Interval:
Refer to original service manual; typically annually or based on operating hours.
Greasing Points:
Regular greasing of all pivot points, steering components, and clutch linkage is critical.
Engine Oil Type Gasoline:
SAE 30 or SAE 10W-30 (depending on temperature, consult original manual for specific viscosity grades).
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
CD or CE rated diesel engine oil, SAE 30 or 10W-30 (consult original manual).
Transmission Fluid:
Gear oil, GL-1 or GL-4 (e.g., SAE 90). Check manual for exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Water-based antifreeze mixture appropriate for the climate.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, transmission gear wear, piston ring wear, valve seat wear, steering component play.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Potential for injector pump and injector wear, glow plug issues (if equipped).
Carburetor Issues:
Clogging and wear in gasoline models.
Cooling System Issues:
Radiator leaks, water pump wear, thermostat failure.
Manufacturer History:
International Harvester (IH) was a major American manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment, known for its robust and reliable machinery.
Farmall M Introduction:
Introduced in 1939 as a successor to the Farmall F-30, representing a significant step forward in tractor technology.
Farmall Mv Introduction:
Introduced in 1942, specifically designed for row-crop farming with its tricycle front end.
Farmall Md Introduction:
Introduced in 1941, offering a diesel engine option for improved fuel efficiency and torque.
Farmall Mdv Introduction:
Introduced in 1945, combining the diesel engine with the tricycle front end for specialized row-crop work.
Successor Models:
Farmall Super M, Super MV, Super MD, Super MDV
Total Production Numbers:
282,911 (includes all M, MV, MD, MDV variants)
Manufacturing Location:
Tractor Works, Chicago, Illinois