Production years
1958-1961
Fordson tractor ยท 1958-1961
Fordson Power Major Tractor
The Fordson Power Major was a Dagenham-built four-cylinder workhorse produced from 1958 to 1961, developing the New Major. Usually diesel-powered by a 3.6 L engine, it made about 47 hp, with around 47.6 PTO hp tested; a 3.3 L petrol version was also offered. It remains a respected British working-vintage Major.
Engine
3.6 L four-cylinder diesel (3.3 L petrol also offered)
Power
About 47 hp (around 47.6 PTO hp tested)
Weight
Approx. 2,300 kg
Fordson Power Major specifications
| Production years | 1958-1961 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6 L four-cylinder diesel (3.3 L petrol also offered) |
| Power | About 47 hp (around 47.6 PTO hp tested) |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Weight | Approx. 2,300 kg |
| Fuel type | Diesel (or petrol) |
| Hydraulics | Hydraulic lift with three-point linkage |
| Built at | Dagenham, England |
What the Power Major is used for
Ford designed the Power Major for substantial general farm work, including cultivation, ploughing and mounted implement duties. Its six-speed gearbox and hydraulic lift with three-point linkage matched the needs of farms wanting a capable four-cylinder tractor.
Today it is a favourite for restoration and demonstrations, and sound examples can undertake sympathetic vintage work or light smallholding jobs. Its approximate 2,300 kg weight and power make it better suited to serious period farm tasks than compact tractor duties.
Why the Fordson Power Major stands out
The Power Major combines handsome Dagenham Major proportions with a useful diesel work ethic, which gives it a devoted UK following. Its tested PTO figure makes its capability easy to appreciate, and the model has strong historical continuity within the Major line. Weight and size are practical considerations for storage, transport and small plots.
Buying a used Fordson Power Major
Identify whether the tractor has the standard 3.6 L four-cylinder diesel or the offered 3.3 L petrol engine. Check cold starting, smoke, oil pressure and even running, then test the clutch and all six gearbox speeds. Ensure the hydraulic lift and three-point linkage work properly, and inspect brakes, tyres, bonnet, mudguards and chassis for wear or corrosion. Check serial and registration records against the claimed identity. Have it inspected if uncertain. Confirm figures and originality against TractorData.com and club records; values vary by condition, so check current listings rather than a fixed price.
Fordson Power Major frequently asked questions
How much power does a Fordson Power Major have?
The Fordson Power Major has about 47 hp, and testing recorded around 47.6 PTO hp. It uses a six-speed gearbox, making it a capable member of the Dagenham Major family for period general farm work.
Was every Fordson Power Major diesel?
No. The usual engine was a 3.6 L four-cylinder diesel, but Ford also offered a 3.3 L petrol version. Confirm the engine fitted to any candidate tractor, as fuel type and originality can affect its appeal to a buyer.
What hydraulic equipment does the Power Major have?
The Fordson Power Major has hydraulic lift with a three-point linkage. This equipment supports mounted implement work and is worth testing carefully on a surviving tractor, since condition and maintenance matter as much as the original specification.
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.