Production years
1961-1964
Fordson tractor ยท 1961-1964
Fordson Super Major Tractor
The Fordson Super Major was the refined final Major built at Dagenham from 1961 to 1964. Its 3.6 L four-cylinder diesel developed about 54 hp, and the model added disc brakes, differential lock, draft control and a Simms Minimec injection pump. It is a landmark British Fordson for practical vintage enthusiasts.
Engine
3.6 L four-cylinder diesel
Power
About 54 hp
Weight
Approx. 2,350 kg
Fordson Super Major specifications
| Production years | 1961-1964 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6 L four-cylinder diesel |
| Power | About 54 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Weight | Approx. 2,350 kg |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Hydraulics | Draft control, three-point linkage, disc brakes and differential lock |
| Built at | Dagenham, England |
What the Super Major is used for
Built for demanding general farm work, the Super Major combined its six-speed transmission and about 54 hp diesel with draft control, three-point linkage and differential lock. These refinements suited cultivation, ploughing and other heavier mounted or traction-led jobs.
Today it is restored for rallies and worked sympathetically by vintage owners, while its capability also attracts smallholders with enough space. The approximate 2,350 kg weight makes it a serious tractor rather than a compact runabout.
Why the Fordson Super Major stands out
For many enthusiasts, the Super Major is the most developed classic Fordson Major: powerful, purposeful and visibly more refined. Disc brakes, differential lock and draft control distinguish it from earlier versions, while the later New Performance Super Major name adds collecting interest. Its size, age and complexity relative to earlier tractors make a thorough condition assessment worthwhile.
Buying a used Fordson Super Major
Check that the 3.6 L diesel starts and runs evenly, with sensible oil pressure and no excessive smoke, and inspect the Simms Minimec injection pump for sound operation. Test all six speeds, clutch, disc brakes and differential lock. Operate draft control, hydraulic linkage and three-point linkage, then examine tyres, bonnet, mudguards and chassis for corrosion or alteration. Verify serial, registration and later badging claims. 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 Super Major frequently asked questions
What makes the Fordson Super Major different from earlier Majors?
The Super Major added disc brakes, a differential lock, draft control and a Simms Minimec injection pump. Those refinements, alongside its 3.6 L four-cylinder diesel and about 54 hp, define its position as the final Major development.
How much power does a Fordson Super Major produce?
The Fordson Super Major produces about 54 hp from its 3.6 L four-cylinder diesel engine. It has a six-speed transmission and weighs approximately 2,350 kg, making it a substantial classic tractor for its period.
What other names were used for the Super Major?
Later examples were badged New Performance Super Major. The model was also sold in the United States as the Ford 5000. Check the individual tractor's identification carefully, particularly where badges or claimed export history are part of the sale.
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.