Historical Significance:
The IH 1256 was a significant model in International Harvester's tractor lineup, representing advancements in power and features for its era.
Competitors:
Competed with models from John Deere (e.g., 4020), Case (e.g., 930/970), and Ford.
Engine Options:
Offered with both International Harvester's own diesel engines and a common option was the highly regarded D-354 or DT-360 diesel.
Transmission Options:
Typically featured a 16-speed Power Shift transmission (Powersync) or a 10-speed manual transmission.
Hydraulic System Capabilities:
Equipped with IH's robust hydraulic system, capable of powering demanding implements.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection pump (Bosch or CAV likely), injectors, fuel lines, filters, and fuel tank service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan assembly service.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, lubrication passages, and oil pressure testing.
Transmission Service:
Disassembly, inspection, and repair of the powershift transmission (if equipped), clutch pack, and gear trains.
Hydraulic System:
Tractor Power Take-Off (PTO), 3-point hitch, remote hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic pump, control valves, and fluid reservoir service.
Electrical System:
Starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting circuits, ignition system (diesel models typically have glow plugs), and control panel diagnostics.
Braking System:
Brake pedal assembly, brake discs/drums, brake hydraulics, and parking brake service.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering cylinder, tie rods, and steering linkages.
Front Axle:
Front wheel bearings, kingpins, and drive components.
Rear Axle And Differential:
Rear axle housing, differential gears, final drives, and planetary gears.
Drawbar And Hitches:
Drawbar mounting, PTO shaft, and auxiliary hitch components.
Operator Station:
Seat assembly, steering column, control levers, and dashboard instrumentation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and general inspection checklists.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common performance issues, symptoms, and their causes.
Major Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for overhauling engines, transmissions, hydraulic pumps, and final drives.
Disassembly And Reassembly:
Step-by-step guides for removing and reinstalling all major components and sub-assemblies.
Adjustment Procedures:
Specifications and methods for adjusting clutch engagement, brake linkages, PTO clutch, and hydraulic controls.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic information for identifying and rectifying complex mechanical and hydraulic issues.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed, factory-level instructions for complete component rebuilds, suitable for professional mechanics.
Schematics And Diagrams:
Inclusion of detailed hydraulic schematics, electrical wiring diagrams, and exploded views for component identification and assembly.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically 100-200 hours, depending on operating conditions and oil type used.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 200-300 hours or as needed if fuel quality is poor.
Hydraulic Oil Change Interval:
Typically 600-1200 hours, with filter changes more frequent.
Engine Oil Type:
API CD or higher rated diesel engine oil, SAE 30 or 15W-40 depending on climate.
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
IH Hytran fluid (or equivalent universal tractor hydraulic fluid meeting IH specification).
Transmission Oil Type:
Depends on Powershift or manual; Powershift typically used dedicated IH Hytran fluid or specific Powershift oil.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with appropriate additives for diesel engines, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Powershift Transmission Wear:
Clutch packs within the powershift transmission can wear over time, leading to slipping or delayed engagement. Requires specialized knowledge for rebuild.
Hydraulic Pump And Cylinder Leaks:
Common wear items leading to loss of hydraulic lift or steering assistance.
Diesel Injector Pump Timing:
Proper timing is crucial for performance and fuel economy; requires specific tools and knowledge to adjust.
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Older tractors may experience brittle or corroded wiring, affecting electrical components.
