Production years
1958-1961
David Brown tractor ยท 1958-1961
David Brown 950 Tractor
The David Brown 950 was a mid-size tractor built at Meltham, Yorkshire, between 1958 and 1961. Offered with a 2.9 L four-cylinder diesel or petrol engine, it produced about 42.5 hp. In Britain it is remembered for its practical Implematic hydraulics and capable all-round farm role.
Engine
2.9 L four-cylinder diesel (petrol option)
Power
About 42.5 hp
Weight
Approx. 1,850 kg
David Brown 950 specifications
| Production years | 1958-1961 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.9 L four-cylinder diesel (petrol option) |
| Power | About 42.5 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Weight | Approx. 1,850 kg |
| Fuel type | Diesel (or petrol) |
| Hydraulics | Implematic hydraulic system, three-point linkage |
| Built at | Meltham, Yorkshire |
What the 950 is used for
Designed as a versatile farm tractor, the 950 was suited to cultivation, mowing, transport and mounted implements through its Implematic hydraulic system and three-point linkage. Its six-speed transmission made it a straightforward choice for the everyday jobs of a mixed holding.
A good 950 can now be enjoyed as a working vintage tractor for sympathetic light duties, or restored for rallies and local shows. Petrol examples offer an alternative for collectors seeking a less usual specification.
Why the David Brown 950 stands out
The 950 combines a useful mid-range size with the appeal of David Brown's early Implematic era. It has a loyal following, club knowledge and worthwhile parts support, helping restorers and regular users alike. As with any tractor of this age, expect slower road-going manners, older controls and possible wear in hydraulic and transmission components.
Buying a used David Brown 950
Inspect the engine for prompt starting, even running, smoke and satisfactory oil pressure, remembering that the 950 was offered in diesel and petrol forms. Test the Implematic hydraulics and three-point linkage under load, then listen for transmission noise through all six gears. Examine brakes, tyres, bonnet and tinwork for wear or rust, and check serial details, registration and originality. Have it inspected, confirm figures and originality against TractorData.com and club records, and remember values vary by condition, so check current listings rather than a fixed price.
David Brown 950 frequently asked questions
How much power does the David Brown 950 produce?
The David Brown 950 is rated at about 42.5 hp. It was a useful mid-size tractor for its period, sitting comfortably in the sort of general farm role that required enough power for mounted implements, cultivation and routine transport work.
What engines were available in the David Brown 950?
The usual specification was a 2.9 L four-cylinder diesel engine, with a petrol option also offered. When viewing a tractor, establish which version it is from its identification and condition, rather than relying solely on paintwork or a seller's description.
What hydraulic system does a David Brown 950 use?
The 950 uses David Brown's Implematic hydraulic system with a three-point linkage. This is a central part of the model's appeal as a usable vintage tractor, but hydraulic response and linkage condition should always be tested on the individual machine.
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. Used tractor values vary by condition and region. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.