Farmall 706 Early vs Late Models: Specs and Engine Differences

Early vs Late Farmall 706

The Farmall 706 and 806 tractors debuted in the summer of 1963. Both were badly needed touchdowns after several unexpected years of John Deere dominating the game. The 806 debuted with the new D361 engine but the 706 used an updated version of the D282 six-cylinder engine which had debuted in the late ‘50s and powered several IH tractors, including the somewhat notorious ‘58-63 560.

Thomas Geise’s 1963 Farmall 706 is a narrow front model and shows the 706 lines in the early days. Comparing it with the later unit nearby, you can see some detailed differences, such as the clamshell rear fenders. Also different is the “Farmall” badge.

The big news of the 706 was not the engine but the rest of the tractor, particularly the final drive. The new transmission had a four-speed main box, with a two-speed range box. It featured an optional hydraulic TA (Torque Amplifier) that could split each gear, instantly and with no clutching. The 06 tractors also featured a centralized, three-pump hydraulic system of greater capacity than ever before offered. Not only did it power remotes for hydraulic implements, but it also operated an integral hydrostatic power steering system, and hydraulic power brakes and had juice left over for the new hydraulic TA and a hydraulically actuated PTO. Yeah, the 706 was the tractor the 560 should have been.

Robert Keener’s 1967 Neuss-powered 706 illustrates the 2nd Generation tractor. The second generation 706 emerged on November 1, 1966, at serial number 37237. Generally speaking, “Second Generation” is indicated by the addition of the D310 Neuss engine. Approximately 9,410 Neuss-powered 706 Farmalls were built. Keener’s is a relatively early 706. It’s a wide front model which had proven to be more popular over time than the narrow front. The rear fenders are the flattop type that was called the “Deluxe” fender. They debuted on 1206 in ‘65 but became optional starting around 1966 and became very popular.

The 706 was a big tractor in its class, with a high seating position placed forward of the rear axle for an improved ride. The plush (by tractor standards) seat was adjustable and featured a suspension system. It could be ordered with dual 540 and 1000 rpm PTOs. It came optional with Front Wheel Assist, using a Coleman axle. A cab was also optional, which was later available with air conditioning. With its bigger 806 brother, the 706 was definitely the shape of IH things to come and launched the company into a very successful decade.

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The D282 dated back to July 1958 and appeared in the 560 tractors. The D282 engine was an adaptation of the successful Black Diamond series gas six architecture. History has judged it a successful engine, but just barely. It was part of a family of six-cylinder engines that were built in three displacements, 236 (short stroke) and 282 cubic inches with dry sleeves and 301 cubic inches as a parent bore, both long stroke. With only four main hearings and fewer head bolts than it probably should have had, D282 had a reputation for not being durable in hard use and needed to be babied a little. It was fuel efficient but limited in power. There were four cylinders that used the same architecture and a short stroke parent bore variant that didn’t make production. Though they never put the D282 in trucks, its parent-bore D301 was used in trucks and made 112 horses at 3000 rpm.

The Farmall 706 was offered with either narrow or wide adjustable front axles and being a row-crop tractor, an adjustable rear track width. At the working end were a new 3-point lift and dual range PTOs. Of course, gas and propane-powered variants were sold but the vast majority were diesels. A fixed track, wide front International (Farmall being the row crop tractor designation) version was built for utility, industrial, or wheatland use but they were only about 20 percent of the total 706 productions.

1st Generation: New Tractor, Carryover Engine

The 706 was powered by an updated version of the D282 diesel that had debuted in the ’58 560 models. It was a 282 cubic inch, naturally aspirated, indirect injected, dry-sleeved, four-main bearing six-cylinder engine that featured glow plugs for cold starts. It had picked up more than 10 PTO hp from 61 to 72 PTO horsepower in the translation from the 560 to the 706, mainly by tuning the pump and raising the peak power rpm from 1800 to 2300. At that output, the final drive was essentially bulletproof.

The D310 was everything the D282 wanted to be but wasn’t. It had a stout 7-main bottom end, wet sleeves, and direct injection. It made about 4 more rated horsepower than the tractor but unlike the D282, it was not frail and could be used to its full potential. For most who have driven both versions of the 706 state, there is a bigger difference in apparent grunt than the number on paper would indicate. The D310 in the 706 was rated at 76 PTO horsepower at 2300 rpm but when used as a truck powerplant, as it was in Europe and Australia, it could deliver 92-95 horses at 3000 rpm. Unlike the D282, the D310 did not have glow plugs. The early D310s had a low 15.9:1 compression ratio and have the reputation of being poor cold-starters. It did have an etherizer, a device that allowed the operator to add a squirt of ether from the comfort of his seat. The Bosch VA pump also had an enrichment device but if you lived in a cold climate, you were using that block heater for reliable starting. Strangely, the D282 with glow plugs has the same cold-start bad rap.

2nd Generation: Old Tractor, New Engine

There were many small changes to the 706 in its lifetime, but only one really big one. For the 706’s last year, the aging D282 was replaced by the German-built direct-injected D310 (309.6ci), which made a few more ponies than the D282 and was more fuel efficient. Built by the German IH subsidiary, Neuss, the D310 emerged from the Neuss-on-Rhine factory starting about 1965. The Neuss factory had been owned by International Harvester since 1908 but didn’t start building tractors until 1936. After being destroyed in World War II, the factory reopened in 1946 and soon began building tractors and engines. At first, they were American designs but they soon began building engines designed in-house.

The working end of the early 706 is largely the same as the later… dual 540 and 1000 rpm PTOs and stout 3-point hitches with draft control. Differences you can observe are in the fenders, and the clamshell style shown here, which were the only option through 1965. Instead of having a fixed swinging drawbar, this older 706 has a drawbar attachment added to the 3-point hitch.

From the operator’s point of view, there isn’t much to choose between the early and late 706s. The layout is largely the same.

By the 1960s, new engine designs were planned and a new line of four and six-cylinder engines went into production in 1965. At first, these engines were allocated only to the European market but as the North American market expanded, IH needed more powerplants to supplement their own tractor. Neuss had some extra production capacity and it kept the German factory working cost-effectively at full speed. Among the engines chosen for fitment into American tractors were the Neuss D310 and a little later the Neuss D358. They were both direct-injected engines with a 3.69-inch bore, but the D310 had a 4.39-inch stroke while the D358 used a 5.06-inch stroke and gained nearly 50 cubic inches.

Faded Away

The 2nd generation 706 debuted in 1967 but was soon updated to be a member of the new 56 series tractors that appeared as the 756 for 1968. It was largely the same tractor as the 706 but with significant restyling. The 706 Farmall was an extremely popular IH model, with nearly 47,000 built between the end of 1963 and 1967. You can add to that nearly 5,500 standard treads 706 International-branded tractors. Nearly 9,500 of the Farmall total were last year 2nd Generation models. So, yeah, you can definitely say the 706 was a touchdown tractor for International Harvester and one that is still fondly remembered today. And still used on farms around the country.

The later 706 has a more commonly seen swinging drawbar with the 3-point free for use on other implements.

SPECIFICATIONS

Early IH Farmall 706/ Late Farmall 706
Engine: IH D282/Neuss D310 inline six
Displacement: 281.3/ 309.6ci
Bore & Stroke: 3.69 x 4.39/ 3.88 x 4.38 in.
*282 PTO Power: 72.42 hp @ 2300 rpm
**310 PTO Power: 76.09 hp @ 2300 rpm
*282 Drawbar Power: 63.30 hp @ 2300 (no ballast)
**310 Drawbar Power: 65.70 hp @ 2300 (no ballast)
Compression Ratio: 18.2:1/15.9:1
Fuel Capacity: 33 gal.
Transmission: 8-speed (4×2) standard
16-speed (4x2x2) optional
Weight: 8530/9160 lbs.
Tires: 6.50-16 front (narrow front)
15.5-38 rear (std)

*Fuel Consumption: 5.5 gph @ max power
**Fuel Consumption: 5.1 gph @ max power
*Drawbar Pull: 8026 lbs @ 14.57% slip (max ballast)
**Drawbar Pull: 8416 lbs @ 14.90% slip (max ballast)
Top Speed: 18.5 mph (both)

*As Rated by Nebraska Tractor Test 856
**As Rated by Nebraska Tractor Test 955

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the history and usage of the specific Farmall 706 being discussed?

History and Usage of the Farmall 706

The Farmall 706 in question has a rich history and distinct usage profile. This particular model, likely from 1963, features a diesel engine—presumably the 282 diesel known for needing glow plugs to aid in starting, regardless of the ambient temperature. The tractor is equipped with a wide front end, a fast hitch, and dual remotes, enhancing its versatility across farming tasks.

Previous Ownership and Current Condition

The current owner has maintained this tractor for over two decades, utilizing it primarily for light haying activities on a 10-15 acre stretch. It was inherited from a father-in-law, and has seen most of its use running a swather and a small square baler. The visuals indicate that the tractor remains intact with all its original components, including its fenders and tinwork, albeit with faded paint—suggesting gentle use without evident signs of misuse.

Key Considerations

Historically, the shift linkage on Farmall 706 models can degrade with prolonged use and age, leading to possible operational difficulties. This specific model shares its engine heritage with others like the 656 and 560, both of which demand careful attention to starting in cooler conditions. In practice, these engines have been known to emit notable smoke during the first few minutes of operation on particularly cold mornings—something the previous experiences with a Farmall 560 corroborate.

Intended Use

The goal of acquiring this Farmall 706 is to support haying operations by taking on tasks such as baling and raking. Additionally, plans are in place to equip it with a loader for efficient bale handling after they are released from the accumulator.

This detailed understanding of the tractor’s past use and forthcoming purpose offers a valuable perspective for anyone interested in the capabilities and upkeep of vintage diesel tractors.

How does the axle size compare between the Farmall 706 and 806 models?

When comparing the axle sizes of the Farmall 706 and 806 models, you’ll find that they share the same axle size. Both models are equipped with robust axles designed for heavy-duty use in agricultural settings.

This similarity in axle size ensures consistency in performance and allows for easier maintenance since many parts are interchangeable between the two models. The shared axle specifications highlight the manufacturer’s intent to provide a reliable and versatile machine suitable for a range of farming tasks.

What are some things to look for when inspecting a Farmall 706 tractor?

Key Points to Inspect on a Farmall 706 Tractor

When inspecting a Farmall 706 tractor, there are several crucial areas to consider to ensure you make a wise investment. Follow these guidelines to assess the tractor’s condition and functionality.

Initial Visual Inspection

Start by checking for obvious signs of trouble:

Leaks: Look for oil or hydraulic fluid leaks.
Wear and Tear: Spot high-wear areas, which could indicate extensive use or mistreatment.
Signs of Abuse: Assess the overall condition for any indications of harsh use.

Mechanical Testing

Once the visual inspection is complete, move on to the mechanical aspects:

Drawbar Check: Examine the hole in the drawbar for signs of wear or damage.
Transmission Assessment: Drive the tractor and observe how it shifts. Make sure it transitions smoothly through gears.
Braking System: Test the brakes thoroughly. Use the Torque Amplifier (TA) in low settings to see if there are any slipping issues.
Torque Amplifier (TA): A crisp shift is crucial. Pay attention to the TA’s responsiveness, as slow shifting can be problematic.

Engine Evaluation

Starting the Engine: The D282 engine can be challenging to start, but some are easier than others. Evaluate how easily the engine starts and runs.

Historical Context

Remember, this is an older model. The first of these tractors were built in 1963, so consider:

Engine Type: Early models had the D282 engine, whereas later ones were equipped with the superior 310 German engine.

Personal Experience Highlights

From anecdotal experiences, early models might present more frequent issues, while later models tend to be more reliable with proper maintenance. Consider enhancements:

Modifications: Some owners add a turbo or upgrade shifters to newer series parts for improved performance.

Keep in mind that no matter how appealing the exterior paint looks, it’s vital to focus on the mechanical and operational “meat” of the tractor. A well-maintained Farmall 706 can be a worthy addition to your farming equipment, but inspecting these specific areas can help you avoid buying a tractor that causes more trouble than it’s worth.

What are the recommendations for brake and hydraulic system maintenance on a Farmall 706?

Recommendations for Brake and Hydraulic System Maintenance on a Farmall 706

Maintaining the brake and hydraulic systems on your Farmall 706 is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Here’s what you need to know:

Brake Maintenance

Regular Inspection: Consistently check the brake system for issues, as self-adjusters can sometimes fail. This failure might cause the piston to misalign.
Clean Return Springs: Over time, return springs can become clogged with rust and brake dust, leading to sticking. Regular cleaning can prevent this.
Unblock Weep Holes: Ensure the weep holes on the bottom of the brake drums are clear of brake dust to allow optimal drainage.

Hydraulic System Maintenance

Change Hydraulic Filter: Replace the hydraulic filter regularly and always use a new gasket to ensure a proper seal.
Check Tin Cup and O-Ring: When changing the filter, if the tin cup falls out, verify that the square O-ring is still in place to prevent leaks.
Monitor Hydraulic Oil: Keep a vigilant eye on the hydraulic oil for any signs of moisture, which can deteriorate system performance.

Seasonal Tips

Spring Start-Up Routine: Before firing up your tractor for the first time each spring, it’s beneficial to crack open all drain plugs beneath the tractor. Allow them to drip until only clean oil flows. This step helps remove any accumulated moisture or contaminants.

By following these maintenance guidelines, you can help ensure your Farmall 706 runs smoothly and efficiently all year round. Regular check-ups and cleaning can make a significant difference in avoiding costly repairs down the line.

How can you test the brakes and transmission of a Farmall 706 tractor?

How to Test the Brakes and Transmission of a Farm Tractor

Testing the brakes and transmission of a tractor is essential to ensure its optimal performance and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide to thoroughly evaluate these components on your tractor:

Inspect for Visible Issues

Check for Leaks: Begin by examining the tractor for any obvious signs of fluid leaks, which can significantly impact performance.
Assess Wear and Tear: Look for high wear on moving parts which may indicate that maintenance is required.
Check for Abuse: Signs of physical abuse or damage could suggest hidden problems.

Test Drive: Feel the Performance

Drive the Tractor: Start by driving the tractor to get an overall feel for how it operates. Pay close attention to how it shifts and handles.
Transmission Assessment:
- Focus on Shifting: Ensure the transmission shifts smoothly and crisply between gears. Shifting should be precise and without delay.
- Test in Different Modes: If applicable, test the transmission in both standard and low modes.
Brakes Test:
- Engage Brakes: While driving, apply the brakes steadily to evaluate their response.
- Check for Slippage: Engage the brakes fully in low mode or while the transmission is in traction assist (TA) to detect any signs of slipping.
- Variety of Conditions: Test braking on different terrains and speeds to ensure consistency and reliability.

Detailed Testing of Traction Assist (TA)

Crisp Shifts: The TA should engage and disengage crisply. Slow or sluggish shifting is a major concern.
Step on Brakes in TA Mode: While using the TA mode, apply the brakes to test if there is any slipping or lack of control.

Conclusion

Regular testing for leaks, wear, and damage, combined with thorough driving tests, will help ensure your tractor operates safely and efficiently. Any inconsistencies or problems found during these tests may require professional maintenance or repairs to avoid more significant issues.

How can adjusting the clutch and dump valve affect the shifting of a Farmall 706?

How Does Adjusting the Clutch and Dump Valve Impact the Shifting of a Farmall 706?

Adjusting the clutch and dump valve plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and easy shifting in a Farmall 706 tractor. Here’s how these adjustments can make a difference:

Clutch Adjustment

Smooth Engagement: Proper clutch adjustment ensures that the tractor’s power is efficiently transferred to the transmission. This results in smoother engagement and reduced wear on the gears.
Reduced Grinding: By minimizing the gap between the clutch plates, you lower the chances of grinding noises, which often indicate misalignment or excessive slack.
Efficient Power Transfer: A well-adjusted clutch maintains consistent power delivery, preventing jerks or lurches during gear changes.

Dump Valve Adjustment

Accurate Pressure Control: The dump valve regulates hydraulic pressure within the transmission system. Adjusting it properly allows for more precise control, which aids in smoother shifts.
Prevents Overloading: By ensuring the dump valve is correctly calibrated, you prevent excessive hydraulic pressure buildup, which can cause abrupt or forced gear changes.
Improved Longevity: Proper adjustment helps in reducing the stress on both the transmission and hydraulic systems, thus prolonging their operational life.

Steps for Adjustments

Inspect and Clean Components: Before making any adjustments, inspect the clutch and dump valve components for any wear or debris.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere strictly to the guidelines provided in the operational manual for precise specifications on adjustments.
Regular Maintenance: Incorporate these adjustments into regular maintenance routines to ensure consistent performance.

By carefully adjusting both the clutch and dump valve, you ensure that the Farmall 706 shifts as smoothly and efficiently as possible, thereby enhancing both performance and longevity.

What are common issues with the shift linkage in older Farmall tractors?

Common Issues with Shift Linkage in Older Farmall Tractors

When dealing with older Farmall tractors, several common issues related to the shift linkage tend to arise. Understanding these can save time and prevent further mechanical headaches.

1. Misaligned Shifters

Older tractor models are notorious for having shifters that wear down over time. One typical problem is the shifter remaining in the reverse position even when the lever is moved to neutral. This misalignment can lead to accidental gear engagement. If the gear engages without proper clutch operation, it may result in damage such as chipped or broken gear teeth.

2. Gear Teeth Damage

When engaging reverse gear, particularly in worn tractors, there’s a risk of damaging the gear teeth. A distinctive “clunking” noise while reversing often indicates a broken tooth in the gear. While one missing tooth might not be catastrophic, two or more require immediate repair to prevent further damage.

3. Clutch Adjustment and Dump Valve

Achieving smooth and easy shifting often hinges on correct clutch adjustment. An improperly adjusted clutch can lead to poor gear engagement and exacerbate wear on the shifter and gears. Additionally, ensuring the dump valve is functioning correctly is crucial for smooth operation.

4. Additional Wear and Tear

It’s essential to inspect other common wear points, such as the steering arm and front spindle for slop, and check for leaks or malfunctioning glow plugs, which can also affect performance.

By regularly checking and maintaining these aspects, you can greatly enhance the reliability and longevity of your Farmall tractor’s shift linkage.

How can one improve the starting performance of a Farmall 706?

The early D310s had a low 15.9:1 compression ratio and have the reputation of being poor cold-starters. It did have an etherizer, a device that allowed the operator to add a squirt of ether from the comfort of his seat. The Bosch VA pump also had an enrichment device, but if you lived in a cold climate, you were using that block heater for reliable starting. Strangely, the D282 with glow plugs has the same cold-start bad rap.

To improve starting performance, consider these practical tips:

Battery Upgrade: Swap out the 2 original 6-volt batteries for 2 12-volt batteries. This modification can significantly enhance the starting power, making it easier to fire up the engine in cold conditions.
Glow Plugs Usage: Make full use of the glow plugs. Allow them to heat for about 60 seconds before attempting to start the tractor. This can make a noticeable difference, especially when temperatures hover around zero degrees.
Block Heater: For temperatures below zero, plug in the block heater. This ensures the engine maintains a temperature conducive to starting, reducing the strain on the starter and batteries.

Combining these practical solutions with an understanding of the D310’s inherent characteristics can transform its reputation from a stubborn starter to a reliable workhorse, even in the most frigid conditions.