Production years
1954-1957
Ford tractor ยท 1954-1957
Ford 800 Tractor
The Ford 800 is Ford's 1954-1957 800 Series utility tractor family, built around a 172-cubic-inch four-cylinder engine and five-speed gearbox. Exact equipment varies by submodel, including the 820, 840, 850, and 860, so buyers should verify the stamped model number before ordering parts.
Engine
Ford 172 cu in (2.8L) four-cylinder
Power
40 hp belt, claimed; 35.16 hp drawbar, tested on the 850
Weight, approximate
2,850-3,400 lb, depending on configuration
Ford 800 specifications
| Production years | 1954-1957 |
|---|---|
| Engine | Ford 172 cu in (2.8L) four-cylinder |
| Power | 40 hp belt, claimed; 35.16 hp drawbar, tested on the 850 |
| Transmission | 5-speed unsynchronized gear |
| Weight, approximate | 2,850-3,400 lb, depending on configuration |
| Fuel type | Gasoline or LP gas |
| Drive | 2WD |
| PTO | 540 rpm; transmission PTO on 850, live PTO on 860 |
What the 800 is used for
The 800 Series suits light to medium property work, including mowing, grading, cultivating, and pulling small implements. Its compact size and straightforward mechanical layout make it a practical vintage utility tractor when matched to its power level.
The live-PTO 860 is the better choice for PTO-driven work because the two-stage clutch allows the PTO to keep turning while the tractor stops. An 850 has transmission PTO, which stops when the clutch is depressed.
Why the Ford 800 stands out
The 800 Series brought substantially more capability than Ford's smaller 600 Series while retaining simple, familiar controls. The 172-cubic-inch engine, five-speed transmission, optional power assist steering, and available live PTO on the 860 are the key distinctions to seek out.
Buying a used Ford 800
Do not buy on hood decals alone. Confirm whether the tractor is an 820, 840, 850, or 860 from the model stamping behind the starter, then test the clutch and PTO operation accordingly. Check for hydraulic lift response, excessive steering play, brake function, coolant contamination, and cracks or poor repairs around loader mounting points if equipped with a loader.
Ford 800 frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Ford 850 and 860?
The 850 uses transmission PTO, while the 860 has a live 540-rpm PTO operated through a two-stage clutch.
How much horsepower does a Ford 800 have?
The 800 Series is rated at 40 belt horsepower; a Ford 850 tested at 35.16 drawbar horsepower.
Was the Ford 800 available with diesel power?
No. The US 800 Series used Ford's four-cylinder gasoline or LP-gas engine.
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.