Production years
1965-1973
Farmall tractor ยท 1965-1973
Farmall 656 Tractor
The Farmall 656 is a 1960s row-crop tractor rated at roughly 61-64 PTO horsepower, depending on engine. It is a versatile mid-size International Harvester design known for its strong utility, available Torque Amplifier or Hydro transmission, and enduring farm-show appeal.
Engine
IH 6-cylinder, 263 cu. in. gasoline or LP, or 282 cu. in. diesel
Power
61.5 hp diesel PTO; 63.8 hp gasoline PTO, claimed
Weight
About 6,250-7,230 lb, depending on engine and equipment
Farmall 656 specifications
| Production years | 1965-1973 |
|---|---|
| Engine | IH 6-cylinder, 263 cu. in. gasoline or LP, or 282 cu. in. diesel |
| Power | 61.5 hp diesel PTO; 63.8 hp gasoline PTO, claimed |
| Transmission | 5F/1R gear; 10F/2R with Torque Amplifier; Hydro optional |
| Weight | About 6,250-7,230 lb, depending on engine and equipment |
| Fuel type | Gasoline, diesel, or LP gas |
| PTO | Independent 540/1000 rpm |
| Hitch and hydraulics | Category II or IH Fast Hitch; open-center hydraulics, about 12 gpm |
What the 656 is used for
The 656 was designed as a row-crop tractor for tillage, planting, hay work, loader work, and PTO-driven implements on mid-size farms. Its adjustable row-crop layout and roughly 60 PTO horsepower suited a broad range of four- and five-bottom-era work.
Owners now commonly use them for mowing, baling, auger and generator duty, parades, and light to moderate field work. A properly equipped tractor remains useful where a simple two-wheel-drive machine is appropriate.
Why the Farmall 656 stands out
The 656 is popular because it combines classic Farmall styling with practical power, live independent PTO capability, and a large owner and parts network. Diesel, gas, LP, standard gear, Torque Amplifier, and Hydro versions give collectors and working owners several configurations to choose from.
Buying a used Farmall 656
Identify the exact engine and transmission before valuing the tractor, then test every gear, Torque Amplifier range or Hydro response under load. Check for a working independent PTO, responsive hydraulics, brake condition, steering wear, engine blow-by or coolant contamination, and leaks at the rear end and hydraulic system. Confirm production details with TractorData.com and the serial-number records, since specifications vary by configuration.
Farmall 656 frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does a Farmall 656 have?
Commonly cited claimed PTO output is 63.8 hp for gasoline models and 61.5 hp for diesel models.
What years was the Farmall 656 built?
Farmall built the row-crop 656 from 1965 through 1973.
Is a Farmall 656 a good tractor today?
Yes, when maintained, it is a capable classic for PTO work and moderate farm chores. Transmission and hydraulic condition are especially important on a used example.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year and serial number, so confirm against TractorData.com and the machine's records. Values and prices of used tractors vary by condition and region. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.