Production years
1938-1948
Minneapolis-Moline tractor ยท 1938-1948
Minneapolis-Moline U Tractor
The Minneapolis-Moline U is a classic prewar and postwar standard-tread tractor built from 1938 to 1948, generally associated with about 31 claimed drawbar horsepower. Its large four-cylinder engine, five-speed transmission, and broad stance made it a respected open-field work tractor.
Engine
Minneapolis-Moline 283.7 ci 4.6L, 4-cylinder gasoline
Power
31 drawbar hp claimed; 41.6 belt hp tested
Weight
About 6,000 lb in standard UTS form
Minneapolis-Moline U specifications
| Production years | 1938-1948 |
|---|---|
| Engine | Minneapolis-Moline 283.7 ci 4.6L, 4-cylinder gasoline |
| Power | 31 drawbar hp claimed; 41.6 belt hp tested |
| Transmission | 5-speed gear |
| Weight | About 6,000 lb in standard UTS form |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| PTO | 540 rpm rear PTO |
| Drive | 2WD standard tread |
What the U is used for
The U was designed for open-field plowing, disking, drawbar work, and belt-powered machinery. Standard, row-crop, and other U-family configurations gave Minneapolis-Moline a broad line based on the same basic tractor platform.
Why the Minneapolis-Moline U stands out
The Model U is a signature Minneapolis-Moline tractor with strong visual presence and a durable, uncomplicated design. Its long-lived U-family platform and collector support make it a familiar sight at antique tractor events and pulling demonstrations.
Buying a used Minneapolis-Moline U
Confirm the exact U-family model before purchase, as U, UTS, UTU, UB, diesel, and industrial versions differ materially. Inspect compression, oil pressure, cooling-system condition, ignition, clutch, transmission, brakes, steering, wheel hardware, and repairs to castings; confirm exact specifications with TractorData.com or serial-number records.
Minneapolis-Moline U frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does a Minneapolis-Moline U have?
The original Model U is commonly cited at 31 claimed drawbar horsepower, with a tested belt figure of about 41.6 horsepower.
What years was the Minneapolis-Moline U built?
The base U was built from 1938 through 1948; related U-family variants continued later.
Is a Minneapolis-Moline U a good collector tractor?
Yes. Its historical importance, robust standard-tread design, and collector community make it a popular choice when it is complete and mechanically sound.
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.