Farmall F-20 Tractor
The Farmall F-20 is an early row-crop tractor from the 1930s, commonly rated around 20 drawbar horsepower and 27 PTO horsepower. It was the "Increased-Power Farmall" and remains one of the best-known prewar tractors.
Farmall F-20 specifications
| Production years | 1932-1939 |
|---|---|
| Engine | International Harvester 3.6 L liquid-cooled 4-cylinder |
| Power | 19.6 hp drawbar; 26.67 hp PTO, claimed |
| Transmission | 4-speed sliding-gear |
| Weight | About 1,995 kg |
| Fuel type | Distillate; many survivors are operated on petrol |
| Drive and steering | 2WD with manual steering |
| PTO | Transmission-driven 540 rpm |
What the F-20 is used for
The F-20 was designed for two-plough row-crop work, belt-powered equipment, cultivating, and general farm chores. Its narrow front, high clearance, and adjustable rear wheels suited the crop rows of its era.
Today, most F-20s are used for antique tractor shows, parades, demonstrations, and light seasonal work. Its low-speed gearing and open operator station make it a historic machine rather than a modern all-purpose utility tractor.
Why the Farmall F-20 stands out
More than 154,000 F-20s were built, making it a cornerstone of Farmall collecting. The tractor's simple four-cylinder design, distinctive tall rear wheels, strong collector following, and wide availability of used parts and reproduction items help sustain its popularity.
Buying a used Farmall F-20
Check the engine block and head for frost cracks, inspect the magneto and cooling system, and make sure the hand-crank engine turns freely before attempting a start. Examine the final drives, clutch, transmission gears, steering, wheel castings, and tyre condition. Verify the serial number and correct paint-era details, since originality matters to collectors; values vary, so check current listings.
Farmall F-20 frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does a Farmall F-20 have?
It was claimed at 19.6 drawbar horsepower and 26.67 PTO horsepower, with tested drawbar output commonly listed near 20.7 hp.
What years was the Farmall F-20 made?
The F-20 was produced from 1932 through 1939.
Are parts available for an F-20?
Common maintenance and restoration parts are generally available through Farmall specialty suppliers, clubs, salvage yards, and reproduction-parts vendors.
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.