Production years
1958-1962
Ford tractor ยท 1958-1962
Ford 861 Powermaster Tractor
The Ford 861 Powermaster is a capable 1958-1962 utility tractor distinguished by its five-speed gearbox and live 540-rpm PTO. It is a practical classic for general farm chores when its original fuel system and hydraulics are in sound condition.
Engine
2.8 L Ford four-cylinder; petrol, LP-gas, or diesel versions
Power
44 hp claimed drawbar; 50 hp claimed belt
Weight approx.
1,355 kg shipping; about 1,590 kg operating
Ford 861 Powermaster specifications
| Production years | 1958-1962 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.8 L Ford four-cylinder; petrol, LP-gas, or diesel versions |
| Power | 44 hp claimed drawbar; 50 hp claimed belt |
| Transmission | Five-speed unsynchronized gear |
| PTO | Live rear PTO, 540 rpm |
| Weight approx. | 1,355 kg shipping; about 1,590 kg operating |
| Fuel type | Petrol, LP gas, or diesel |
| Hitch | Category I three-point hitch |
What the 861 Powermaster is used for
The 861 suits mowing, light tillage, blade work, raking, and PTO-driven chores that benefit from a live PTO. Its compact utility layout also makes it useful around small livestock operations and rural properties.
Use appropriate ballast and a matched implement, particularly for ground-engaging work. This is an open-station, two-wheel-drive tractor, so modern rollover protection and safe operating practices deserve careful consideration.
Why the Ford 861 Powermaster stands out
The key 861 feature is its live PTO, paired with a five-speed manual transmission and Ford's familiar Category I three-point hitch. Buyers can also find petrol, LP-gas, and diesel versions, so the exact engine and starting system should be identified before purchase.
Buying a used Ford 861 Powermaster
Confirm that the tractor is truly an 861 rather than another 801-series variant by checking the model identification, then test the two-stage clutch and live PTO under load. Inspect the five-speed transmission for gear engagement, check hydraulic lift response, and verify whether the engine is petrol, LP gas, or diesel because parts and starting-system details differ.
Ford 861 Powermaster frequently asked questions
What makes a Ford 861 different from an 851?
The 861 has a live PTO; the 851 is the five-speed version without the 861's live-PTO designation.
What PTO speed does the Ford 861 use?
It has a 540-rpm rear PTO.
How much does a Ford 861 weigh?
TractorData lists 1,355 kg shipping weight and about 1,590 kg operating weight.
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 4 Nov 2026.