The Fordson Major series tractors, manufactured by Ford Motor Company's Tractor Division primarily from the early 1950s through the 1960s, represent a significant era in agricultural mechanization. These robust machines, including variants such as the Power Major, Super Major, and various diesel models, were engineered for reliability and versatility, serving as indispensable tools for farmers worldwide. Their design, evolving from earlier Fordson models, incorporated advancements in power, hydraulics, and operator comfort, solidifying the Fordson legacy as a provider of accessible and effective agricultural machinery.
This comprehensive Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual provides detailed technical information for the Fordson Major series tractors. It covers all major systems, including the engine, cooling system, diesel fuel system, electrical system, clutch, transmission, differential, rear axle, final drive, front axle, steering gear, brakes, hydraulic lift system, power take-off (PTO), and belt pulley. The manual offers complete disassembly and reassembly instructions, diagnostic procedures, repair guidance, and troubleshooting charts, making it an essential resource for owners, mechanics, and restorers seeking to maintain and repair these iconic tractors.
Model:
Major Series Tractors
Sub Models:
Power Major, Super Major, Major Diesel, Ford 5000 Super Major, New Performance Super Major
Vehicle Type:
Agricultural Tractor
Manufacturer Code:
Ford Motor Company (Tractor Division)
Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, and restorers of Fordson Major series tractors.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level technical information at a fraction of the cost of dealership services, enabling cost-effective maintenance and repair.
Manual Benefits:
Easy-to-read text, top-quality diagrams, step-by-step instructions, exploded views, comprehensive coverage, instant download, cost savings on postage and packaging.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair for Fordson Major series tractors.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages, typical for a complete workshop manual. Exact count not provided, but described as 'complete'.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Delivery:
Instant Download
Major Systems:
Engine, Cooling System, Diesel Fuel System, Electrical System, Clutch, Transmission, Differential, Rear Axle, Final Drive, Front Axle, Steering Gear, Brakes, Hydraulic Lift System, Power Take-Off (PTO), Belt Pulley.
Diesel Fuel System Details:
Fuel tank, fuel filters, injection pump, injectors, fuel lines, bleeding the system.
Electrical System Details:
Battery, starter motor, dynamo/alternator, voltage regulator, lighting system, ignition system (for petrol variants), wiring diagrams.
Hydraulic Lift System Details:
Hydraulic pump, control valve, lift arms, draft control system, position control, hydraulic fluid reservoir and filtration.
Repair Procedures:
Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions, diagnostics, repair procedures for all listed systems, troubleshooting guidance.
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Diagnostic charts and procedures based on symptoms to identify causes of malfunctions.
Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded views, diagrams, and high-quality illustrations suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and experienced mechanics.
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like the engine, gearbox, hydraulic pump, and final drives.
Digital Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
Compression Utility:
WinZip (or equivalent)
Printability:
All pages are printable.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Type:
Typically Fordson Diesel (Perkins P3/4/6 derived), with potential for Petrol variants in earlier models.
Horsepower Range:
Generally in the 40-55 HP range, depending on the specific engine variant and model.
Fuel Type:
Diesel; Petrol for some early models.
Key Components Covered:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (diesel).
Gearbox Type:
Constant mesh gearbox with sliding gears.
Enhancements:
Some models may feature variations or optional PTO or transmission configurations. (e.g., Live PTO on later models).
Gear Selection:
Typically multiple forward gears (e.g., 6 or 10 speeds) and one or more reverse gears.
Overall Length:
Varies by model, but generally around 3.5 meters.
Operating Weight:
Approximately 2000-2300 kg (4400-5000 lbs) depending on configuration.
Front Axle Weight:
Essential for load distribution and steering stability.
Rear Axle Weight:
Carries the majority of the tractor's operational weight.
Safety Standards:
Adherence to relevant agricultural machinery safety standards of the era. Manual covers safety precautions during operation and maintenance.
Braking System:
Mechanical drum brakes or disc brakes (depending on variant/updates), typically foot-pedal operated with an independent parking brake.
Operator Station:
Basic operator controls, often without modern rollover protection systems (ROPS) or seatbelts unless retrofitted. Manual will emphasize safe operating practices.
Operator Interface:
Basic mechanical controls for engine throttle, transmission shifting, PTO engagement, and hydraulic lift. No digital infotainment systems.
Tractor Assistance:
Hydraulic draft control and position control for the three-point linkage are key technological features of the era.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Mechanical tractor)
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 100-200 operating hours, depending on operating conditions and oil type. Manual will specify exact intervals and recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual for specific intervals, often tied to annual usage or operational hours. Fluid type is critical.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for diesel engines, with specific recommendations based on ambient temperature. Manual will specify API service classification.
Hydraulic Fluid:
Ford 134D specification fluid is often recommended for the hydraulic and transmission systems. Manual will detail correct fluid type and capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant. Manual will specify mixture ratio and capacity.
Common Wear Points:
Wear in transmission gears and synchros, clutch wear, hydraulic pump and cylinder leaks, front axle kingpin wear, potential engine injector issues.
Diesel Fuel System Challenges:
Glow plug reliability, injector pump calibration, air in fuel lines, filter clogging. Manual provides detailed troubleshooting.
Oil Filter Example:
Generic part numbers exist, but specific Ford/Perkins numbers are best. Manual will likely list relevant filter numbers or specifications.
Fordson Legacy:
Fordson represented Ford's entry into mass-produced, affordable agricultural machinery, with the Major series being a highly successful and iconic line.
Major Series Development:
Evolved from the Fordson E27N, with the Major introducing significant advancements in power, hydraulics, and operator comfort. Key milestones include the Power Major and Super Major updates.
Production Period:
The Major series was produced from the early 1950s through the 1960s, with various iterations and upgrades.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Dagenham, England, and also at Ford's tractor plants in the USA and other international locations.
Industry Impact:
The Fordson Major series was a workhorse tractor that contributed significantly to agricultural mechanization in its era, recognized for its reliability and versatility.
