Tractor Segment:
Utility Tractor
Competitors:
During its production era, the IH 21256 would have competed with models from John Deere, Ford, Massey Ferguson, and Case IH.
Durability:
International Harvester tractors are renowned for their robust construction and longevity.
Versatility:
Designed for a wide range of agricultural tasks, from plowing to harvesting and general farm work.
Mechanical Simplicity:
Often featured straightforward mechanical systems, making them relatively easier to service with the right documentation.
Engine Repair:
Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, and component replacement.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Coverage of clutch, gearbox, differential, final drives, PTO (Power Take-Off) systems.
Hydraulic System:
Repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the hydraulic pump, cylinders, valves, and fluid system.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, and instrument panel.
Fuel System:
Diesel injection system service, fuel filters, fuel tank and lines.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, and coolant specifications.
Braking System:
Service and repair of mechanical and hydraulic braking components.
Steering System:
Diagnosis and repair of steering linkage and components.
Chassis And Frame:
Inspection and repair of the tractor frame and chassis components.
Operator Station:
Seat, controls, and dashboard assembly.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and general inspection procedures.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to identify and resolve common and uncommon issues.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly of major components.
Adjustment And Calibration:
Procedures for setting clearances, timing, fluid levels, and control linkages.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and usage of specialized tools for specific repair tasks.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Likely a diesel engine, common for IH tractors of this class. Specific displacement and model will vary.
Horsepower:
Estimated range typically between 40-70 PTO horsepower, depending on the specific engine variant and configuration.
Torque:
Torque figures would be optimized for farm implement power requirements.
Injection System:
Likely a Bosch or Simms inline injection pump system.
Transmission Type:
Likely a manual transmission, potentially with multiple ranges (e.g., 8-speed or 16-speed). A range splitter or creeper gear might be an option.
Optional Features:
Possible options might include a live PTO or specific transmission configurations for different implement requirements.
Pto Speed:
Standard PTO speeds (e.g., 540 RPM or 1000 RPM) are expected, with options for live PTO.
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration, but typical for utility tractors of the era.
Operating Weight:
Estimated operating weight would be in the range of 4,000-6,000 lbs (1,800-2,700 kg).
Rollover Protection:
Original models may not have included factory ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure), but aftermarket options are often available. The manual will detail if factory ROPS was an option.
Brake System:
Typically mechanical or hydraulic drum brakes, or potentially disc brakes on later models.
Operator Station Design:
Ergonomic considerations for the operator's safety and comfort, though less advanced than modern standards.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 100-250 operating hours, depending on operating conditions. Manual will specify.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 250-500 operating hours or as needed based on fuel quality. Manual will specify.
Hydraulic Fluid Change:
Typically annually or every 500-1000 operating hours. Manual will specify.
Engine Oil Grade:
Likely API CD or CE rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 30. Manual will provide exact specifications.
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
Tractor Hydraulic Fluid (THF) or a suitable universal tractor transmission oil (UTTO). Manual will specify.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixture, typically 50/50 with distilled water. Manual will provide.
Engine Wear:
As with any older diesel, potential for injector wear, ring wear, and head gasket issues.
Hydraulic Leaks:
Common in older tractors due to seal degradation and wear on hydraulic components.
Transmission Synchronizers:
Wear on synchronizers in manual transmissions can lead to difficult shifting.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion and loose connections are frequent issues in older agricultural equipment exposed to the elements.
Ih Legacy:
International Harvester (IH) has a long and storied history in agricultural machinery, known for producing reliable and powerful farm equipment.
Tractor Lineup:
The 21256 likely belongs to a series of utility tractors that evolved from earlier IH designs, incorporating advancements in engine technology and hydraulics.
Production Era:
Specific production years are not provided, but models with this numbering convention were common from the 1960s through the 1970s.
