Are Ford 1910 Tractors Any Good?
The Ford 1910 tractor, while not as iconic as some of its older siblings like the Fordson, represents a significant chapter in Ford's evolution in the compact tractor market. Understanding its strengths and weaknesses is crucial for anyone considering purchasing one, restoring one, or simply learning about the history of agricultural machinery. This article delves into the specifics of the Ford 1910, providing a detailed overview of its features, capabilities, and overall value proposition.
Ford 1910 Tractor: Key Specifications and Features
| Feature | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Shibaura N844L 1.3L 4-cylinder diesel | Shibaura engines are known for their reliability. The N844L is a naturally aspirated, water-cooled engine. |
| Horsepower | 19.5 HP (14.5 kW) at the engine; 17.5 HP (13.0 kW) at the PTO | This power rating makes it suitable for small-scale farming, gardening, and light utility work. |
| Transmission | 6-speed forward, 2-speed reverse | Offers a reasonable range of speeds for various tasks. |
| PTO | Independent | This allows the PTO to be engaged or disengaged independently of the transmission, providing more control over implements. |
| Hydraulics | Open center | Provides hydraulic power for implements like loaders and mowers. |
| Hydraulic Capacity | 4.2 GPM (15.9 L/min) | A decent flow rate for its size, capable of handling most small implements. |
| Weight | 1,390 lbs (630 kg) | Relatively lightweight, making it maneuverable and easy to transport. |
| Steering | Manual | Can be more demanding to operate compared to power steering, especially with a loader. |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.8 US gallons (18.2 liters) | Allows for a reasonable amount of operating time between refills. |
| Years of Production | 1983-1987 | Understanding the production years helps in determining parts availability and assessing the tractor's age and potential wear. |
| Original MSRP | Approximately $6,000 - $8,000 (USD, adjusted for inflation to today's dollars) | Gives context to the tractor's value proposition when new and helps compare it to modern alternatives. |
| Tire Sizes (Front/Rear) | Front: 5.00-15; Rear: 9.5-24 | These sizes are typical for compact tractors of this era and dictate the type of terrain the tractor can handle effectively. |
| Turning Radius | 8.2 feet (2.5 meters) | Provides good maneuverability in tight spaces. |
| Attachments | Common attachments include loaders, mowers (belly and rotary), tillers, box blades, and backhoes. | Demonstrates the tractor's versatility and range of applications. |
| Typical Uses | Small-acreage farming, gardening, landscaping, light construction, snow removal. | Highlights the ideal applications for this tractor. |
| Common Issues | Injector pump issues, clutch wear, electrical problems (due to age), hydraulic leaks. | Knowing these issues can help prospective buyers inspect tractors carefully and budget for potential repairs. |
| Strengths | Reliable engine, compact size, versatile PTO, relatively simple mechanics. | Highlights the positive aspects of owning a Ford 1910. |
| Weaknesses | Manual steering, limited horsepower, potential for age-related issues, parts availability can be a challenge. | Acknowledges the potential drawbacks of owning a Ford 1910. |
Detailed Explanations of Key Features
Engine: The Ford 1910 is powered by a Shibaura N844L 1.3L 4-cylinder diesel engine. Shibaura is a well-regarded Japanese engine manufacturer, and their engines are known for their durability and fuel efficiency. This particular engine is a naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) diesel, meaning it relies on atmospheric pressure to draw air into the cylinders. It's water-cooled, ensuring consistent operating temperatures and preventing overheating.
Horsepower: The Ford 1910 boasts 19.5 horsepower at the engine and 17.5 horsepower at the PTO (Power Take-Off). The PTO horsepower is the power available to run implements like mowers, tillers, and rotary cutters. While not a powerhouse, this level of horsepower is adequate for small-scale tasks and makes the tractor economical to operate.
Transmission: The tractor features a 6-speed forward and 2-speed reverse transmission. This provides a reasonable range of speeds for different tasks, allowing the operator to select the appropriate gear for plowing, tilling, mowing, or simply transporting materials. The gear ratios are generally well-suited for the tractor's horsepower.
PTO: The Ford 1910 utilizes an independent PTO system. This means that the PTO can be engaged or disengaged independently of the transmission. This is a significant advantage because it allows the operator to stop the tractor without disengaging the implement, improving safety and efficiency.
Hydraulics: The hydraulic system on the Ford 1910 is an open-center system. In an open-center system, the hydraulic pump is constantly pumping fluid, and any excess fluid is diverted back to the reservoir. This system is reliable and relatively simple, but it can be less efficient than closed-center systems. The hydraulic system powers implements like loaders, mowers, and backhoes.
Hydraulic Capacity: The hydraulic system delivers a flow rate of 4.2 gallons per minute (15.9 liters per minute). This flow rate is sufficient for operating most small-to-medium-sized implements designed for compact tractors. However, it may be insufficient for larger or more demanding hydraulic implements.
Weight: The Ford 1910 weighs approximately 1,390 lbs (630 kg). This relatively light weight makes the tractor easy to maneuver, transport, and store. It also reduces soil compaction, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy soil in gardens and small farms.
Steering: The Ford 1910 is equipped with manual steering. While reliable, manual steering can be more physically demanding than power steering, especially when operating with a front-end loader or on uneven terrain. This is one of the most common upgrades owners consider.
Fuel Capacity: The fuel tank holds 4.8 US gallons (18.2 liters) of diesel fuel. This capacity allows for a reasonable amount of operating time between refills, typically several hours depending on the load and operating conditions.
Years of Production: The Ford 1910 was produced from 1983 to 1987. This relatively short production run means that finding replacement parts can sometimes be a challenge. However, many parts are still available through aftermarket suppliers.
Original MSRP: When new, the Ford 1910 had an MSRP of approximately $6,000 to $8,000 in USD. Adjusted for inflation, this would be a significantly higher amount today. This gives context to the tractor's original value and helps compare it to modern compact tractors.
Tire Sizes (Front/Rear): The front tires are typically size 5.00-15, while the rear tires are 9.5-24. These tire sizes are standard for compact tractors of this size and provide good traction and stability on various terrains.
Turning Radius: The tractor has a turning radius of 8.2 feet (2.5 meters). This tight turning radius makes the Ford 1910 highly maneuverable in confined spaces, such as gardens, orchards, and small barns.
Attachments: The Ford 1910 is compatible with a wide range of attachments, including front-end loaders, belly mowers, rotary mowers, tillers, box blades, and backhoes. This versatility makes it a useful tool for a variety of tasks.
Typical Uses: The Ford 1910 is well-suited for small-acreage farming, gardening, landscaping, light construction, and snow removal. Its compact size and maneuverability make it ideal for working in tight spaces.
Common Issues: Some common issues with the Ford 1910 include injector pump problems, clutch wear, electrical problems (due to age), and hydraulic leaks. Regular maintenance and proper storage can help prevent these issues.
Strengths: The Ford 1910's strengths include its reliable engine, compact size, versatile PTO, and relatively simple mechanics. These features make it a durable and easy-to-maintain tractor.
Weaknesses: The tractor's weaknesses include its manual steering, limited horsepower, potential for age-related issues, and the fact that parts availability can sometimes be a challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ford 1910 a reliable tractor? Yes, the Ford 1910 is generally considered a reliable tractor, particularly due to its Shibaura diesel engine known for its longevity. However, like any older machine, its reliability depends heavily on maintenance and past usage.
Is it easy to find parts for a Ford 1910? Finding parts can be a challenge, but many parts are still available through aftermarket suppliers and online retailers. Some parts may require sourcing from specialized tractor salvage yards.
Can the Ford 1910 handle a front-end loader? Yes, the Ford 1910 can handle a front-end loader, though the manual steering can make operation more challenging. Ensure the loader is appropriately sized for the tractor.
What kind of oil does the Ford 1910 use? The Ford 1910 typically uses 15W-40 engine oil and hydraulic/transmission fluid meeting Ford's specifications for that era. Always consult the owner's manual for specific recommendations.
How much is a Ford 1910 worth? The value of a Ford 1910 varies widely depending on its condition, hours of use, and location. Expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000 for a well-maintained model.
Conclusion
So, are Ford 1910 tractors any good? The answer is a qualified yes. For small-scale tasks and hobby farming, the Ford 1910 offers a reliable and economical solution. However, potential buyers should carefully inspect the tractor for common issues and be prepared for potential maintenance and parts sourcing challenges due to its age.