Production years
1947-1953
David Brown tractor ยท 1947-1953
David Brown Cropmaster Tractor
Built at Meltham, Yorkshire, from 1947 to 1953, the David Brown Cropmaster was one of Britain's hugely popular postwar tractors. Its 2.5 L four-cylinder petrol/TVO engine gave about 34 hp, while a diesel option arrived in 1949. It remains a common and approachable first vintage tractor.
Engine
2.5 L four-cylinder petrol/TVO; diesel option from 1949
Power
About 34 hp (petrol/TVO); around 40 hp diesel
Weight
Approx. 1,700 kg
David Brown Cropmaster specifications
| Production years | 1947-1953 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5 L four-cylinder petrol/TVO; diesel option from 1949 |
| Power | About 34 hp (petrol/TVO); around 40 hp diesel |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Weight | Approx. 1,700 kg |
| Fuel type | Petrol/TVO, or diesel |
| Hydraulics | Hydraulic lift with three-point linkage |
| Built at | Meltham, Yorkshire |
What the Cropmaster is used for
The Cropmaster was intended for the mixed farms that needed a useful general-purpose tractor for cultivation, mowing, haulage and three-point linkage work. Its six-speed gearbox and hydraulic lift suited the practical jobs of its period.
Today, sound examples still make capable working vintage tractors for light smallholding duties, while others are restored for road runs, rallies and shows. Petrol/TVO machines especially appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy their distinctly postwar character.
Why the David Brown Cropmaster stands out
The Cropmaster has real historical importance as a familiar British postwar workhorse, and its popularity supports an active owner community and a healthy supply of used parts. It is an attractive entry into David Brown ownership. Buyers should nevertheless accept period brakes, old-fashioned controls and the maintenance needs of a tractor approaching vintage age.
Buying a used David Brown Cropmaster
Check that the 2.5 L four-cylinder engine starts cleanly, runs evenly and has satisfactory oil pressure; on petrol/TVO versions, inspect the fuel system carefully. Look for smoke, tired hydraulics, linkage wear, noisy gears, weak brakes and corrosion in the bonnet and tinwork. Assess tyre condition, originality, serial details and registration history. Have a prospective purchase 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 Cropmaster frequently asked questions
What engine and power does a David Brown Cropmaster have?
The standard Cropmaster used a 2.5 L four-cylinder petrol/TVO engine rated at about 34 hp. A diesel option became available from 1949 and is generally quoted at around 40 hp. Both versions were built during the model's 1947 to 1953 production run.
Was the Cropmaster built in Britain?
Yes. The David Brown Cropmaster was built at Meltham, Yorkshire. Its British manufacture, straightforward layout and strong postwar following help explain why it remains a familiar sight at UK vintage tractor events and among first-time vintage owners.
Does a Cropmaster have hydraulics and a three-point linkage?
It has a hydraulic lift with three-point linkage, making it more useful than a purely show-focused machine for suitable light implement work. It also has a six-speed transmission, but purchasers should judge the condition of each individual tractor rather than assume every system is sound.
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.