Market Position:
The David Brown 885, 995, 1210, 1410, and 1412 series tractors were workhorses of their era, known for their robust construction and versatility in agricultural and industrial applications. This manual positions itself as an essential resource for owners and operators seeking to maintain and repair these classic machines.
Competitive Analysis:
In its competitive landscape, David Brown tractors, particularly these models, competed with brands like Massey Ferguson, Ford, International Harvester, and John Deere. The availability of detailed workshop manuals like this is crucial for supporting the longevity and operational efficiency of these tractors in the secondary market.
Key Features:
Comprehensive coverage of multiple related models, detailed diagrams and illustrations, step-by-step repair procedures, troubleshooting guidance, and maintenance schedules. This manual provides the necessary technical information to keep these reliable tractors operational.
Systems Covered Engine:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head assembly, piston and connecting rod assembly, crankshaft and main bearings, camshaft and timing gears, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (including injection pump and injectors), air intake and exhaust systems.
Systems Covered Transmission:
Gearbox assembly, clutch operation and adjustment, PTO (Power Take-Off) engagement, hydraulic PTO unit, differential and final drives.
Systems Covered Hydraulics:
Hydraulic lift system (rockshaft, draft control, position control), hydraulic pump, control valves, hydraulic oil filtration and maintenance, external hydraulic services.
Systems Covered Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery maintenance, lighting system, ignition system (if applicable to specific models), instrument panel and gauges.
Systems Covered Chassis And Steering:
Front axle and steering assembly, rear axle components, brakes (mechanical and hydraulic), wheel alignment, chassis lubrication.
Systems Covered Bodywork And Fittings:
Fender assembly, seat mounting, controls and linkages, ballast weights, drawbar and hitch.
Procedures Included Maintenance:
Regular servicing, lubrication points and intervals, filter changes (oil, fuel, air), coolant checks and changes, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, hydraulic system checks.
Procedures Included Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common problems, identification of fault causes, step-by-step troubleshooting procedures for engine, transmission, hydraulics, and electrical systems.
Procedures Included Repair:
Detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, hydraulic pump replacement, brake caliper servicing, and steering box repairs.
Procedures Included Technical Data:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine timing settings, valve clearances, hydraulic system pressures, electrical component specifications, fluid capacities and types.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both experienced mechanics and serious DIY owners. Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed exploded diagrams and step-by-step repair instructions.
Engine Type Common:
Perkins AD4.203 (4-cylinder diesel), Perkins AD6.354 (6-cylinder diesel for larger models like 1410/1412).
Engine Displacement Ad4 203:
3.3 liters (203 cubic inches)
Engine Displacement Ad6 354:
5.8 liters (354 cubic inches)
Horsepower 885 Approx:
Approx. 50-55 PTO HP
Horsepower 1410 Approx:
Approx. 70-75 PTO HP
Fuel System Type:
Indirect injection diesel, typically utilizing CAV or Lucas fuel injection pumps.
Fuel Filter Spec:
Specific part numbers will be detailed in the manual for oil, fuel, and air filters.
Oil Type Engine:
Typically SAE 15W-30 or 10W-30 (API CD or higher) depending on ambient temperature. Manual will specify exact requirements and capacities.
Transmission Type Common:
Manual transmission with multiple forward and reverse gears. Options often included a creeper gear. Synchromesh often present in higher gears.
Transmission Optional Features:
Independent PTO (540/1000 RPM), live PTO options, differential lock.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 or GL-5 multi-purpose gear oil. Manual will specify exact SAE viscosity and capacity for gearbox and final drives.
Dimensions Wheelbase Approx 885:
Approx. 80 inches (2032 mm)
Dimensions Wheelbase Approx 1410:
Approx. 90 inches (2286 mm)
Weights Unladen 885 Approx:
Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)
Weights Unladen 1410 Approx:
Approx. 6000 lbs (2721 kg)
Dimensions Tire Sizes Rear Typical:
14.9-28, 16.9-30 (depending on model and configuration)
Dimensions Tire Sizes Front Typical:
6.00-16, 7.50-16
Safety Ratings:
Tractors of this era pre-date modern rollover protection system (ROPS) mandates and standardized safety ratings. Operation requires caution and awareness of potential instability, especially on uneven terrain.
Safety Features Active:
Brake system (mechanical and hydraulic), differential lock for improved traction, PTO safety shield. Manual details proper brake adjustment and use.
Safety Features Passive:
Operator seat, steering wheel, operator platform. Manual will emphasize safe operating practices and pre-operation checks.
Service Intervals Engine Oil Filter:
Typically every 250 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will detail precise interval and procedure.
Service Intervals Fuel Filter:
Recommended replacement with oil change or as per manual's guidance, especially after prolonged storage or suspected fuel contamination.
Service Intervals Greasing:
Daily or weekly greasing of pivot points, kingpins, steering linkages, and PTO shaft bearings is critical. Specific points and frequencies are detailed in the manual.
Fluid Specifications Hydraulic Oil:
David Brown recommended specific hydraulic oil types (e.g., Terratrac hydraulic oil) or equivalent. Manual will list approved specifications and capacities for transmission, hydraulic reservoir, and final drives.
Known Issues Common:
Wear in PTO clutch packs, hydraulic pump wear leading to reduced lift capacity, oil leaks from seals and gaskets, potential for gearbox synchromesh wear in high-mileage units. Manual provides diagnostic and repair steps for these.
Known Issues Engine Cooling:
Overheating due to blocked radiator fins or faulty thermostat. Regular cleaning and coolant checks are essential.
Brand Heritage:
David Brown Tractors was a British manufacturer with a long history of producing agricultural machinery. Known for their distinctive brown livery and robust engineering, David Brown tractors have a dedicated following among collectors and users.
Model Evolution:
The 885, 995, 1210, 1410, and 1412 represent a series of tractors that evolved from earlier David Brown designs. These models incorporated updated Perkins engines and improved hydraulic systems, reflecting advancements in tractor technology during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Production Period General:
These models were primarily produced from the 1960s through the 1970s.
