Ford 8700 Tractor
Production Years: 1977 – 1979
Category: Row-Crop Tractor
Manufacturer: Ford
Factories: Romeo, Michigan (USA) / Antwerp (Belgium)
Overview
The Ford 8700 is a powerful row-crop tractor developed as the successor to the Ford 8600 and positioned below the later TW series. Built for heavy field operations, the 8700 combines a proven 6.6L Ford diesel engine, strong PTO output, and flexible transmission options. Its simple mechanical structure and global production make it a reliable and popular choice in export markets worldwide.
Series Map
| Model | Production Years | Engine Power |
|---|---|---|
| Ford 8600 | 1972 – 1976 | – |
| Ford 8700 | 1977 – 1979 | 127 hp |
| Ford 9700 | 1977 – 1979 | 146 hp |
| TW-10 | 1979 – 1983 | – |
Engine
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine model | Ford diesel |
| Displacement | 6.6 L |
| Cylinders | 6-cylinder |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 gal / 219.5 L |
The 6.6L engine delivers reliable torque and fuel efficiency, well suited for plowing, cultivation, and PTO-intensive work.
Power
| Measurement | Output |
|---|---|
| Engine power | 127 hp / 94.7 kW |
| PTO power (claimed) | 110 hp / 82.0 kW |
| Drawbar power (tested) | 96.05 hp / 71.6 kW |
| PTO power (tested) | 110.58 hp / 82.5 kW |
Transmission
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard | 8-speed gear |
| Optional | 16-speed two-speed power shift |
The two-speed power shift transmission allows smoother operation under load and improved field efficiency.
Mechanical Features
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drive | 2WD or 4WD |
| Final drives | Inboard planetary |
| Differential lock | Mechanical (rear) |
| Steering | Power steering |
| Brakes | Hydraulic wet disc |
| Operator station | Open station |
| Cab | Optional, with air-conditioning |
Hydraulics
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| System type | Open center |
| Pump flow | 15.5 gpm / 58.7 L/min |
| Steering flow | 4.2 gpm / 15.9 L/min |
Tractor Hitch
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rear hitch type | Category II / I |
| Rear lift capacity | 5,764 lb / 2,614 kg |
Power Take-Off (PTO)
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| PTO type | Independent |
| Rear PTO speeds | 540 / 1000 rpm |
| Rated engine speed | 540 @ 1900 rpm |
| 1000 @ 1935 rpm |
Dimensions & Tires
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase (2WD short) | 93.4 in / 237 cm |
| Wheelbase (2WD long) | 109.7 in / 278 cm |
| Wheelbase (4WD) | 111 in / 281 cm |
| Operating weight | 9,800 – 12,270 lb |
| Front tires | 10.00-16 |
| Rear tires | 18.4-38 |
Electrical System
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Ground | Negative |
| Battery voltage | 12 V |
Photos
At present, official photos of the Ford 8700 are limited online. The tractor shares a similar appearance and layout with the Ford 8600 and 9700 models of the same era.
Summary
The Ford 8700 is a well-balanced row-crop tractor offering dependable power, simple mechanics, and strong PTO performance. Built in both the USA and Europe, it continues to be valued in international markets for its durability, ease of maintenance, and suitability for heavy agricultural work.
