Ford 1520 Compact Tractor - Specs, Parts & Repair Tips

Description:

The Ford 1520 Compact Tractor, produced from 1987 to 1991 by Shibaura for Ford, is a durable and versatile utility tractor in the compact 20-series. Designed for light to moderate agricultural, landscaping, and property maintenance tasks, the 1520 offers a balance of horsepower, hydraulic performance, and drivetrain durability. Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations with gear or hydrostatic transmission, this model is known for its ease of use and low-maintenance design.

Engine:

• Manufacturer: Shibaura

• Model: 3-cylinder diesel

• Displacement: 1.3L (80.4 cu in)

• Gross Power: 23 hp

• PTO Power: ~19 hp

• Cooling System: Liquid-cooled

• Fuel Capacity: ~6.6 gallons

Transmission:

• Options:

  • Gear Transmission: 12 forward, 4 reverse

  • Hydrostatic Transmission: 2-range HST with infinite speeds

• Clutch (Gear Models): Dry, single plate

• Drive Type: 2WD or 4WD available

Hydraulics & PTO:

• Hydraulic System Type: Open center

• Pump Flow: ~5.1 GPM

• 3-Point Hitch: Category 1

• Lift Capacity: ~1,250 lbs

• PTO: Rear 540 RPM PTO, mechanically engaged

Dimensions & Performance:

• Weight: ~1,750 lbs (2WD) to ~1,950 lbs (4WD)

• Wheelbase: 63 inches

• Ground Clearance: ~13 inches

• Tires: Ag, turf, or industrial

• Turning Radius: Approx. 8 feet

Maintenance & Common Replacement Parts:

• Air, Fuel & Oil Filters: Easy-access service points – Ford 1520 Filter Kits

• Hydraulic Pumps & Seals: Common replacements on aging models – Hydraulic Kits for Ford 1520

• Clutch Kits & Throwout Bearings (Gear models): Ford 1520 Clutch Parts

• 4WD Front Axle Components: Kingpins, seals, and tie rods – Ford Front Axle Kits

• Glow Plugs & Starter Motors: Critical for cold starts – Electrical Parts for Ford Tractors

Common Issues:

• Hydraulic Lift Delay or Stutter: Often due to air in system or weak pump

• Hard Starting in Cold Weather: Check glow plugs, fuel lines, and use #1 diesel in winter

• PTO Slips or Won’t Engage: Clutch wear or improper linkage adjustment

• 4WD Axle Seal Leaks: Common after 1,500 hours of use

• Gear Grinding or Hard Shifting (gear models): Worn clutch or linkage misalignment

Serial Number Info:

• Located on the left-hand side of the transmission housing, just below the operator's seat

• Helps identify model year and correct transmission variant

Pro Tip: Always verify if your 1520 is hydrostatic or gear-drive before ordering transmission or clutch components.

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