02/02/2025
The 1940 Farmall M is one of the most well-known and significant tractors in International Harvester’s history. Part of the Farmall “M” series, the M was introduced in 1939 and produced until the early 1950s. It was designed to meet the needs of medium to large-scale farmers and was a step up from the smaller Farmall H model, offering more power and versatility for a range of agricultural tasks.
The 1940 Farmall M was powered by a 4-cylinder, 248 cubic inch gasoline engine that produced 32 horsepower at the drawbar and around 45 horsepower at the PTO (Power Take-Off). This engine offered reliable, consistent power that made the M ideal for pulling heavier implements like plows, disk harrows, and grain drills. The M could also be used for tasks like hauling, mowing, and baling, making it a workhorse on the farm.
One of the standout features of the 1940 Farmall M was its row-crop capability. Like other Farmall tractors, it was designed with a narrow front axle, which allowed it to straddle crop rows. This made it particularly suited for cultivating and other row-crop tasks, as the tractor could pass through narrow rows without damaging the plants. The M was capable of handling a wide variety of implements, from plows to planters and everything in between, thanks to its 3-point hitch system and the ability to engage a live PTO for consistent power output to attached implements.
The 1940 Farmall M was equipped with a 4-speed transmission, offering a range of gears for different speeds and tasks. This allowed the operator to adjust the tractor’s speed to match the specific requirements of the job. The M was also known for its easy handling and good visibility, with simple controls that were user-friendly and intuitive, making it a favorite among farmers for long working hours in the field.
Operator comfort was relatively basic, as the Farmall M was an open-station tractor with no cab. However, it had a comfortable seat and wide foot platforms for better control and ease of movement. The visibility from the operator’s position was also excellent, making it easier to work with implements and navigate through the field.
Overall, the 1940 Farmall M was a versatile, durable tractor that helped revolutionize farming during its production. It became one of the most popular and enduring models in the Farmall line, thanks to its combination of power, reliability, and ease of use. It’s still highly regarded by vintage tractor enthusiasts and collectors for its role in mechanizing farming operations and improving productivity during the early 20th century.