International Harvester 1456 Tractor

The International Harvester 1456 is a large late-1960s row-crop and standard-tread tractor, best known for its turbocharged six-cylinder diesel and roughly 130 PTO horsepower. It was IH's most powerful 56 Series model and remains respected as a capable, collectible heavy-tillage tractor.

International Harvester 1456 specifications

What the 1456 is used for

The 1456 was built for substantial row-crop and broad-acre work, including heavy tillage, large planters, forage equipment, and grain hauling. Its weight and power suited it to large implements of its day.

Today, owners still use sound examples for field work, tractor pulls, and shows. It is best suited to an operator comfortable with a large, older 2WD tractor and its manual controls.

Why the International Harvester 1456 stands out

The 1456 combines the high-output DT-407 diesel with the familiar IH 56 Series platform, making it one of the best-known high-horsepower IH tractors. Its strong collector interest, distinctive styling, and good support from the IH enthusiast and aftermarket parts community add to its appeal.

Buying a used International Harvester 1456

Test the Torque Amplifier carefully under load in both ranges, as repair can be significant. Check engine starting, blow-by, cooling-system condition, clutch and PTO operation, hydraulic response, brake performance, and signs of final-drive or rear-end noise. Verify the serial number and configuration, because Farmall row-crop and IH standard-tread versions differ; confirm exact figures through TractorData.com or serial-number records.

International Harvester 1456 frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does an IH 1456 have?

It is commonly rated at 130 PTO horsepower; Nebraska testing recorded about 131.1 PTO horsepower.

What years was the IH 1456 built?

International Harvester produced the 1456 from 1969 through 1971.

Is an IH 1456 a good tractor to buy?

Yes, when mechanically sound. It is powerful and collectible, but the Torque Amplifier, drivetrain, and engine condition deserve a thorough inspection.

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.

Other International Harvester tractors