Harman UK
Massey Ferguson tractor ยท 1975-1981

Massey Ferguson 255 Tractor

The Massey Ferguson 255 is a 50-PTO-hp row-crop tractor well suited to general farm work, hay equipment, and loader chores. It was built in Detroit, Michigan, in standard, row-crop, and low-profile versions.

Production years
1975-1981
Engine
Perkins 4-cylinder, 3.3L or 3.9L diesel; 3.5L petrol
Power
50 hp claimed PTO; 42 hp claimed drawbar
Weight approx.
2,540-2,910 kg, depending on engine and configuration

Massey Ferguson 255 specifications

Production years1975-1981
EnginePerkins 4-cylinder, 3.3L or 3.9L diesel; 3.5L petrol
Power50 hp claimed PTO; 42 hp claimed drawbar
Transmission8-speed gear or 12-speed partial powershift
Weight approx.2,540-2,910 kg, depending on engine and configuration
Fuel typeDiesel or petrol
Drive and steering2WD with power steering
PTOLive 540-rpm rear PTO with two-stage clutch

What the 255 is used for

The 255 has enough PTO and drawbar power for mowing, baling, raking, light tillage, and routine livestock-farm work. Its simple 2WD layout makes it a practical choice for properties that do not require front-wheel drive.

A loader-equipped tractor can handle feed, materials, and light earthmoving, but ballast and tyre condition matter. The row-crop and low-profile variants suit different clearance and stability needs, so match the tractor to the intended work.

Why the Massey Ferguson 255 stands out

The MF 255 combines a widely familiar Perkins engine family with a useful live PTO, power steering, and a choice of 8-speed or 12-speed transmissions. Its production variants make it more adaptable than a single-purpose utility tractor, while the 50-hp PTO rating remains suitable for many common implements.

Buying a used Massey Ferguson 255

Confirm which engine and transmission are fitted, because 255 specifications vary by diesel, petrol, and chassis version. Test the two-stage clutch for proper PTO separation, inspect the hydraulic lift and remote valves under load, and check for brake, steering, and loader-frame wear before purchase.

Massey Ferguson 255 frequently asked questions

How much PTO power does the Massey Ferguson 255 have?

It has a claimed 50 hp at the PTO.

Was the Massey Ferguson 255 available with diesel power?

Yes. Perkins 3.3L and 3.9L four-cylinder diesel versions were offered.

Does the MF 255 have a live PTO?

Yes. It uses a live 540-rpm rear PTO with a two-stage clutch.

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.

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