Ford New Holland 2600

Description

The Ford New Holland 2600 was part of the Ford 1000 series, which was produced from the late 1970s to the early 1980s. It was designed to be a general-purpose tractor, offering enough power for various agricultural tasks while being compact and economical.

Engine and Performance

• Engine Type: The 2600 is powered by a Ford 2.6-liter, three-cylinder diesel engine. The engine is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, which were key selling points for small to mid-sized farm operations.
• Horsepower: The engine produces approximately 38 PTO horsepower, which makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks, including plowing, mowing, and light tillage.
• Fuel Capacity: It has a fuel capacity of around 13.8 gallons, which allows for extended operation without frequent refueling.

Transmission

• The tractor typically comes with a manual transmission, offering 6 forward and 2 reverse gears. This simple yet effective transmission setup is designed to provide adequate speed options for various agricultural activities.
• Dual Range Transmission: Some models also offered an optional dual-range transmission, which effectively doubles the number of available gears, providing more flexibility for different tasks.

Hydraulics and PTO

• The Ford New Holland 2600 is equipped with a basic but reliable open-center hydraulic system with a flow rate of approximately 8 GPM (gallons per minute). This system is sufficient for operating simple hydraulic implements.
• PTO: The tractor features a 540 RPM PTO (Power Take-Off), which is standard for most implements used in this horsepower range. The PTO is live, meaning it can operate independently of the transmission, allowing the operator to engage or disengage the PTO without stopping the tractor.

Dimensions and Weight

• Weight: The 2600 weighs around 4,200 pounds (1,905 kg), making it relatively light and maneuverable, which is ideal for smaller farms and operations where larger tractors would be impractical.
• Dimensions: It has a wheelbase of approximately 75.8 inches (1.93 meters), providing good stability while still being compact enough for tight spaces.

Cab and Comfort

• The Ford New Holland 2600 was typically sold with an open station, meaning it does not come with a cab. This design is common for tractors of this size and era, focusing on simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
• The tractor is equipped with a basic, comfortable seat, and easy-to-use controls, ensuring that the operator can work for extended periods without excessive fatigue.

Applications and Uses

• The 2600 is well-suited for a variety of tasks, including light tillage, mowing, hauling, and general farm maintenance. Its moderate power and compact size make it an excellent choice for small farms, orchards, and estates.
• It is also commonly used with attachments like front-end loaders, making it a versatile tool for various farm operations.

Popularity and Legacy

• The Ford New Holland 2600 has a reputation for being a “workhorse” tractor. Its simplicity, durability, and ease of maintenance have made it a favorite among farmers looking for a dependable machine without the complexity and cost of larger tractors.
• Many 2600s are still in use today, a testament to their durability and the availability of parts.

Maintenance and Parts

• Maintenance of the Ford New Holland 2600 is straightforward, with regular tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, and checking the hydraulic and transmission fluids.
• Due to its popularity, parts are widely available, both through Ford New Holland dealers and aftermarket suppliers. This makes it relatively easy and cost-effective to keep a 2600 running for many years.

Collectibility and Value

• The Ford New Holland 2600 is considered a practical tractor rather than a collector’s item, though well-maintained examples can still fetch good prices on the used market.
• Its value lies more in its utility than in its rarity, making it a great choice for those who need a reliable tractor for everyday farm work.