Production years
1938-1948
Minneapolis-Moline tractor ยท 1938-1948
Minneapolis-Moline U Tractor
The Minneapolis-Moline U is a classic prewar and postwar standard-tread tractor built from 1938 to 1948, generally associated with about 31 claimed drawbar horsepower. Its large four-cylinder engine, five-speed transmission, and broad stance made it a respected open-field work tractor.
Engine
Minneapolis-Moline 283.7 ci 4.6L, 4-cylinder petrol
Power
31 drawbar hp claimed; 41.6 belt hp tested
Weight
About 2,720 kg in standard UTS form
Minneapolis-Moline U specifications
| Production years | 1938-1948 |
|---|---|
| Engine | Minneapolis-Moline 283.7 ci 4.6L, 4-cylinder petrol |
| Power | 31 drawbar hp claimed; 41.6 belt hp tested |
| Transmission | 5-speed gear |
| Weight | About 2,720 kg in standard UTS form |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| PTO | 540 rpm rear PTO |
| Drive | 2WD standard tread |
What the U is used for
The U was designed for open-field ploughing, disking, drawbar work, and belt-powered machinery. Standard, row-crop, and other U-family configurations gave Minneapolis-Moline a broad line based on the same basic tractor platform.
Why the Minneapolis-Moline U stands out
The Model U is a signature Minneapolis-Moline tractor with strong visual presence and a durable, uncomplicated design. Its long-lived U-family platform and collector support make it a familiar sight at antique tractor events and pulling demonstrations.
Buying a used Minneapolis-Moline U
Confirm the exact U-family model before purchase, as U, UTS, UTU, UB, diesel, and industrial versions differ materially. Inspect compression, oil pressure, cooling-system condition, ignition, clutch, transmission, brakes, steering, wheel hardware, and repairs to castings; confirm exact specifications with TractorData.com or serial-number records.
Minneapolis-Moline U frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does a Minneapolis-Moline U have?
The original Model U is commonly cited at 31 claimed drawbar horsepower, with a tested belt figure of about 41.6 horsepower.
What years was the Minneapolis-Moline U built?
The base U was built from 1938 through 1948; related U-family variants continued later.
Is a Minneapolis-Moline U a good collector tractor?
Yes. Its historical importance, robust standard-tread design, and collector community make it a popular choice when it is complete and mechanically sound.
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.