Ford 8730 Tractor
Production Years: 1990 – 1993
Series: 8030 Series
Category: Row-Crop Tractor
Manufacturer: Ford
Built in: Antwerp, Belgium
Original Price: USD 56,500 (1993)
Overview
The Ford 8730 is a high-output row-crop tractor from Ford’s 8030 Series, developed as the successor to the TW-25. Positioned between the 8630 and 8830, the 8730 offers strong PTO performance, reliable hydraulics, and flexible drivetrain options. Thanks to its balance of power and simplicity, it remains popular in global export markets for heavy tillage and large PTO applications.
Series Map
| Model | Production | Engine Power* |
|---|---|---|
| Ford 8630 | 1990 – 1993 | 134.4 hp* |
| Ford 8730 | 1990 – 1993 | 155.6 hp* |
| Ford 8830 | 1990 – 1993 | 188.9 hp* |
*Estimated engine power for comparison only.
Engine
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine model | Ford diesel |
| Displacement | 6.6 L |
| Cylinders | 6-cylinder |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
The proven Ford 6.6L diesel engine delivers dependable torque and fuel efficiency for long working hours.
Power
| Measurement | Output |
|---|---|
| PTO power (claimed) | 140 hp / 104.4 kW |
| Drawbar power (tested) | 124.84 hp / 93.1 kW |
| PTO power (tested) | 140.68 hp / 104.9 kW |
Transmission
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| 8-speed | Standard |
| 16-speed | Enhanced field versatility |
| 18-speed | Wide operating range |
Mechanical Features
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drive | 2WD or 4WD |
| Steering | Power steering |
| Brakes | Hydraulic wet disc |
| Cab | Optional, with heater & A/C |
Capacities
| System | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank | 75 gal / 283.9 L |
| Auxiliary fuel tank | 24.5 gal / 92.7 L |
| Steering oil | 2 qts / 1.9 L |
Hydraulics
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| System type | Open center gear pump |
| Optional | Dual hydraulic pumps |
| System pressure | 2500 psi / 172.4 bar |
| Valves | 2 – 4 |
| Pump flow | 20 gpm / 75.7 L/min |
| Pump flow (dual) | 28.6 gpm / 108.3 L/min |
| SCV flow | 16.9 gpm / 64.0 L/min |
| SCV flow (dual) | 19 gpm / 71.9 L/min |
| Steering pressure | 2025 psi / 139.6 bar |
Tractor Hitch
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rear hitch type | Category III / II |
| Hitch control | Position & draft control |
Power Take-Off (PTO)
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| PTO type | Independent |
| Rear PTO speeds | 540 / 1000 rpm |
Dimensions & Tires
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 111 in / 281 cm |
| Operating weight | 12,185 – 14,710 lb |
| Front tires | 11.00-16 |
| Rear tires | 18.4/15-38 |
Attachments
| Attachment | Availability |
|---|---|
| Front-end loader | Compatible |
Electrical System
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Charging output | 90 amps |
| Battery voltage | 12 V |
Summary
The Ford 8730 is a well-balanced high-power tractor in the 8030 Series, combining strong PTO output, reliable hydraulics, and straightforward mechanical design. Built in Belgium and engineered for demanding row-crop operations, it continues to be a trusted choice for farmers and contractors seeking durable performance and long service life in international markets.
