
Ford 8600 Tractor
Production Years: 1972 – 1976
Manufacturer: Ford
Built in: Romeo, Michigan, USA
Original Price: USD 15,200 (1976)
Overview
The Ford 8600 is a powerful large-frame agricultural tractor from Ford’s 8000 Series, designed for demanding field operations. Positioned between the earlier Ford 8000 and the later 8700/9600 models, the 8600 is well known worldwide for its robust 6-cylinder diesel engine, strong PTO output, and simple mechanical design. Even decades after production ended, this model remains popular in Africa, the Caribbean, and other developing agricultural markets.
Series Map
| Model | Production Years | Engine Power* |
|---|---|---|
| Ford 8000 | 1968 – 1972 | – |
| Ford 8600 | 1972 – 1976 | 123.0 hp* |
| Ford 8700 | 1977 – 1979 | – |
| Ford 9600 | 1972 – 1976 | 150.5 hp* |
*Estimated engine power for comparison only.
Engine
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine model | Ford diesel |
| Displacement | 6.6 L |
| Cylinders | 6-cylinder |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
The Ford 6.6L diesel engine is renowned for high torque at low RPM, making the 8600 suitable for plowing, heavy tillage, and PTO-driven implements.
Power (Tested)
| Measurement | Output |
|---|---|
| Drawbar power (tested) | 92.42 hp / 68.9 kW |
| PTO power (tested) | 110.69 hp / 82.5 kW |
Transmission
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard | 8-speed manual |
| Optional | 16-speed partial power shift (Dual Power) |
The Dual Power transmission provides on-the-go shifting under load, improving productivity during heavy field work.
Mechanical Features
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drive | 2WD |
| Differential lock | Foot pedal |
| Steering | Power steering |
| Brakes | Differential hydraulic wet disc |
| Operator station | Open station (cab optional) |
Capacities
| System | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank | 43 gal / 162.8 L |
| Hydraulic system | 16 gal / 60.6 L |
| Hydraulic system (Dual Power) | 17.3 gal / 65.5 L |
| Steering oil | 3 qts / 2.8 L |
Hydraulics
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Hydraulic capacity | 16 gal / 60.6 L |
| System pressure | 2500 psi / 172.4 bar |
| Pump flow | 12 gpm / 45.4 L/min |
| Steering flow | 4.2 gpm / 15.9 L/min |
| Steering pressure | 1500 psi / 103.4 bar |
Tractor Hitch
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rear hitch type | Category II |
Power Take-Off (PTO)
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| PTO type | Independent |
| Rear PTO speeds | 540 / 1000 rpm |
Dimensions & Tires
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase (All-purpose) | 91.5 in / 232 cm |
| Wheelbase (Row crop) | 108 in / 274 cm |
| Operating weight | 8,033 – 11,430 lb |
| Front tires | 7.50-18 |
| Rear tires | 18.4-34 |
Electrical System
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Ground | Negative |
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging output | 55 amps |
| Battery voltage | 12 V |
| Battery capacity | 128 Ah |
Serial Numbers
Location: Inside tool box cover and on top of rear axle, near top link mount.
| Year | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1972 | C327200 |
| 1973 | C367300 |
| 1974 | C405200 |
| 1975 | C450700 |
| 1976 | C490300 |
Summary
The Ford 8600 remains a highly respected tractor for heavy agricultural applications. Its simple mechanical structure, powerful 6.6L diesel engine, and strong PTO performance make it an excellent choice for farmers seeking durability and ease of maintenance. This is why the Ford 8600 continues to be in demand as a Japanese-used and globally traded tractor even today.
If you are looking for a reliable large tractor with proven performance, the Ford 8600 is a model worth considering.
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