Ford 4000SU Special Utility Tractor

Description:

The Ford 4000SU Utility Tractor (Short Utility), produced from 1965 to the early 1970s, is a special version of the 3-cylinder Ford 4000 model. Designed for utility work with a low-profile and shorter wheelbase, the 4000SU combines the power of a row-crop tractor with the maneuverability of a compact utility model. It's ideal for loader work, mowing, and tight turns in orchards or small acreage farming.

Engine & Power

• Engine: Ford 3-cylinder

  • Gasoline: 192 CID (3.1L)

  • Diesel: 201 CID (3.3L)

• Horsepower: ~52 PTO HP

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 16 gallons

• Cooling System Capacity: 13 quarts

• Air Cleaner: Oil bath (early models) or dry-type (later)

Transmission Options

• Standard: 4-speed or 8-speed manual transmission

• Optional: 10-speed Select-O-Speed (power shift)

• PTO Options:

  • Transmission PTO

  • Live PTO (two-stage clutch)

  • Independent PTO (with Select-O-Speed)

Hydraulics & PTO

• System Pressure: 2,500 psi

• Pump Flow: 5.4 GPM

• 3-point Hitch: Category I with draft and position control

• Rear PTO Speed: 540 RPM

• Lift Capacity: ~2,800 lbs

Dimensions & Weight

• Operating Weight: ~4,500 lbs

• Wheelbase: ~75.8 in (shorter than standard 4000)

• Rear Tires: 14.9x24 standard

• Height to Steering Wheel: ~60 in

• Overall Length: Approx. 125 in

Maintenance Essentials

• Lift piston O-rings and top cover gasket kits
  → Ford 4000SU Hydraulic Repair Kits

• Brake shoes, actuator pins, and return springs
  → Ford 4000SU Brake Kits

• Fuel and air filters, glow plugs, carb kits (gas models)
  → Ford 4000SU Engine Parts

• Steering gear bushings, tie rods, and drag link ends

Common Issues & Solutions

• Hydraulic lift drop or jerking motion – Replace lift piston seals and clean intake screen

• Brake drag or uneven stopping – Replace shoes and springs on both sides

• PTO won’t engage smoothly – Check clutch linkage or replace worn shaft bushings

• Loader instability on uneven terrain – Upgrade stabilizer bars and pivot pins
  → Ford Loader Pins & Bushings

Serial Number Location

• Stamped behind the starter on left side of engine block

• ID tag on transmission housing may also include model and unit code (e.g., “D4024C” for 4000SU diesel with 8-speed and independent PTO)

Pro Tips

• The SU (Short Utility) was often sold with industrial axles and no adjustable front axle—confirm before ordering steering or axle parts

• Use M2C134D hydraulic/transmission fluid to protect lift and PTO systems

• Regular greasing of pivot pins and 3-point linkages extends machine life