The Ford 4600 tractor was a popular 2WD utility tractor manufactured by the Ford Motor Company between 1975 and 1981. It was designed to be a versatile workhorse for farmers, with a range of features and capabilities to help them get the job done. One of the most notable features of the Ford 4600 is its powerful engine, which came in two options: a 3.3 L three-cylinder diesel engine or a 3.3 L three-cylinder gasoline engine. Both engines were built to be reliable and efficient, with impressive output power and torque.

In addition to its powerful engine, the Ford 4600 was also equipped with a gear type transmission with dry disc clutch, which offered precise control and smooth shifting. With 8 forward and 2 reverse gears, the tractor was able to tackle a wide variety of tasks with ease, whether it was plowing fields or hauling heavy loads.

Features Of The Ford 4600 Tractor

The Ford 4600 tractor is a versatile and durable piece of machinery that is equipped with powerful engines, efficient transmission, and convenient features. In this article, we will explore the various features of the Ford 4600 tractor and their benefits to the agricultural sector.

Engine

The Ford 4600 tractor offers two engine options, each with its unique set of specifications and benefits. The first option is a 3.3 L, three-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is naturally aspirated and has a cylinder bore and piston stroke of 112.0 mm (4.41 in), resulting in a displacement of 3,294 cm2 (201.0 cu·in). It has a high compression ratio of 16.3:1, which allows it to achieve an impressive maximum output power of 60.4 PS (44.4 kW; 59.5 HP) at 2,200 rpm. The engine’s robust construction and low maintenance requirements make it a reliable and cost-effective choice for those in the agricultural sector.

The second engine option for the Ford 4600 tractor is a 3.3 L, three-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. Like the diesel engine, it has a cylinder bore and piston stroke of 112.0 mm (4.41 in) and a displacement of 3,294 cm2 (201.0 cu·in). However, it has a lower compression ratio of 7.75:1, which allows it to produce a maximum output power of 60.8 PS (44.7 kW; 60.0 HP) at 2,200 rpm.

The gasoline engine is an excellent option for those who prioritize low upfront costs and simplicity. It is generally easier to maintain and repair than diesel engines, and the gasoline itself tends to be cheaper than diesel fuel. However, it may not be as fuel-efficient as the diesel engine and may require more frequent refueling.

Transmission

The Ford 4600 tractor is equipped with a gear type transmission, which offers a reliable and efficient means of power transfer from the engine to the wheels. The transmission system features a dry disc clutch reducing wear and tear on the transmission components.

The Ford 4600 transmission provides the operator with a wide range of gear ratios, with 8 forward and 2 reverse gears. The Ford 4600 transmission has a top forward speed of 24.1 kmh (15 mph) and a top reverse speed of 11.6 kmh (7.2 mph), making it ideal for use in a variety of tasks, including tiling, plowing, harvesting, and hauling. The 8 forward gears provide a range of speed options to match the tractor’s speed to the task at hand, while the 2 reverse gears provide precise control when reversing or backing up.

Other General Features

The Ford 4600 tractor boasts several mechanical features that contribute to its overall efficiency and versatility. It is a 4×2 2WD, which offers good traction on level ground, the mechanical rear differential lock further enhances traction, ensuring that power is transferred to the wheels that have the most grip, reducing slippage and maximizing efficiency. The Ford 4600 tractor has a power steering system, this hydraulic system provides easy and precise control of the tractor’s direction and reduces operator fatigue.

The Ford 4600 tractor’s differential mechanical wet disc brakes provide efficient stopping power, even when the tractor is heavily loaded or operating on steep terrain. The Ford 4600 tractor also features an open operator station, which provides excellent visibility, an optional cab is available for those who require additional protection from the elements, such as extreme heat or cold, dust, or noise.

List Of Serial Number

The Serial number of the Ford 4600 tractor can be found On top-right section of transmission.

The serial number of the tractor is written adjacent to the year of its manufacture:

• 1975: C450700
• 1976: C490300
• 1977: C527300
• 1978: C560500
• 1979: C595800
• 1980: C635700
• 1981: C660700

Pros and Cons

Here are some factual pros and cons considering the overall Ford 4600.

Pros Of Ford 4600 Tractor

• The gasoline engine of the Ford 4600 is an excellent choice for those who do not require the high power output of the diesel engine and want a simpler, more cost-effective solution.
• The tractor is equipped with a sturdy chassis and differential lock, making it capable of navigating challenging terrain and heavy loads.
• The power steering and differential mechanical wet disc brakes provide added safety and ease of use.
• The Ford 4600 tractor’s transmission is a reliable and efficient component offering the operator precise control over the tractor’s speed and power.

Cons Of Ford 4600 Tractor

• The 2WD configuration may limit the tractor’s ability to navigate particularly rough terrain or steep inclines.
• The tractor was produced in the 1970s and 1980s, meaning that parts and maintenance may be more difficult to obtain compared to newer models.

Price Of Ford 4600 Tractor

The original price of the Ford 4600 tractor was $9,700 in 1981. The price of a used tractor can depend upon the condition of its engine and other mechanical components.

Conclusion

The Ford 4600 tractor is a versatile and reliable machine with its powerful engine options, efficient transmission, and sturdy chassis. It has a range of features that provide benefits to farmers and workers in the agricultural sector. While it has some limitations, such as limited maneuverability and the lack of certain modern amenities, the Ford 4600 remains a popular and respected tractor in the industry. Overall, the Ford 4600 tractor is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable and dependable workhorse.