Ford 8600 Tractor Specifications & Performance Overview

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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