Production years
1980-1985
International Harvester combine ยท 1980-1985
International Harvester 1420 Combine Harvester
The International Harvester 1420 was the small member of the original Axial-Flow family, built from 1980 through 1985. It brought single-rotor harvesting to smaller farms that previously used conventional combines such as the IH 715.
Engine
International Harvester D358 5.9L diesel, 112 hp initially and 124 hp later
Grain tank capacity
4,400 litres
Header compatibility
Up to 6.1 m grain platforms; 4-row maize heads
International Harvester 1420 specifications
| Production years | 1980-1985 |
|---|---|
| Threshing system | Axial-Flow single rotary rotor |
| Engine | International Harvester D358 5.9L diesel, 112 hp initially and 124 hp later |
| Grain tank capacity | 4,400 litres |
| Header compatibility | Up to 6.1 m grain platforms; 4-row maize heads |
| Weight | Approx. 7,620 kg without header |
| Rotor diameter | 20 in |
| Controls | Early electric-over-hydraulic control system |
What the 1420 is used for
The 1420 was intended for maize, soybeans, wheat, and small grains on smaller operations. Its 20-inch rotor, 125-bushel tank, and four-row or 20-foot-header capacity gave smaller farms an entry into rotary threshing without the size of a 1460 or 1480.
Owners now use it for lower-acreage grain production, specialty crops, and hobby or heritage operations. It is appreciated for being a compact Axial-Flow, although capacity is limited beside larger rotary combines.
Why the International Harvester 1420 stands out
The 1420 is important because it made the original IH Axial-Flow concept accessible to smaller farms. It has a loyal following, familiar IH mechanical layout, and good parts interchangeability within the early Axial-Flow family, though local dealer and salvage support should be checked before purchase.
Buying a used International Harvester 1420
Check the small rotor, concaves, cage, feederhouse chain and floor, elevator chains, fan and sieve components, hydrostatic drive, and all belts and pulleys. Test every electro-hydraulic function and header control, inspect the D358 cooling and fuel systems, and make sure the header is correctly matched. Confirm the machine's serial number and year-specific rating with TractorData.com and manufacturer records.
International Harvester 1420 frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does an IH 1420 have?
It was introduced at 112 hp with the D358 diesel; later machines are commonly listed at 124 hp.
What is the grain-tank capacity of an IH 1420?
The standard grain tank holds 125 bushels.
What headers can an IH 1420 use?
It was designed for grain platforms up to about 20 feet and four-row maize heads.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year, header and configuration, so confirm against the manufacturer's records and the machine's serial number. Weights, capacities and dimensions are converted to metric and rounded. Used combine values vary by condition and hours. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.