18/06/2026
6000 & 6000 Tricycle
The Ford 6000 is a high-horsepower row-crop tractor produced by Ford between 1961 and 1964. Often configured with a narrow "tricycle" front end, this vintage machine featured a 6-cylinder engine (gas or diesel), the innovative Select-O-Speed transmission, and robust power steering.
Key Tractor Specifications.
Engine Output:
Tested at 59 drawbar hp and around 66–77 PTO hp, making it Ford's highest-horsepower tractor at the time of its debut.
Transmission:
10-speed Select-O-Speed full power shift.
Weight:
~7,000 lbs (base weight).
Colour Schemes:
Originally sold with a red-and-grey livery. Later updated and repainted blue following a major factory recall.
Known Issues & Recall History.
The Ford 6000 was highly ambitious but notoriously plagued with early mechanical issues. The Select-O-Speed transmission experienced failures under heavy load, and there were hydraulic system issues. Ford ultimately issued a major factory recall to implement heavy modifications, frame additions, and reliability upgrades. Tractors that survived this recall and modification were repainted from red to blue, earning them the nickname "Blue Bellies".
Common Problems.
Select-O-Speed (SOS) Transmission Issue:
The 10-speed SOS transmission was highly innovative but complex and notoriously fragile. Details:
Sudden loss of drive power and transmission lock-ups are common. When it fails, metal shrapnel spreads throughout the entire transmission.
Maintenance:
Parts are very difficult to source, and specific tools required to service the hydrostatic components are practically obsolete.
Engine and Crankshaft Failures Issue:
The diesel engine is essentially a modified gas engine that was not robust enough for the high compression of a diesel.
Details:
It features only four main bearings, which could not handle heavier workloads, frequently resulting in catastrophic crankshaft failures.
Collectibility.
Today, the Ford 6000 is a unique and sought-after piece for vintage tractor collectors. Restored or good running examples often hold an interesting place in tractor history. Because some Ford 6000 parts are relatively rare and hard to find compared to smaller Ford 8N models, restorers often rely on online communities and collector forums.
Video Link. Original Ford Promo.
https://youtu.be/U6shDrbUeh8?si=PPyIAMO-G66c4CHt