Tractor Trivia
3788 International 2+2 Tractor
Last time we talked about Farmall tractors and what some of my favorites are. Of course, my love is in “older” or “antique” tractors. Last week as I was coming through Oklee parked on the west side of town was a very nice looking 3788 2+2 International tractor. I hit the brakes and made a U-turn and stopped to look. I headed inside the building and asked to see Cole Nymann but he was not there to get a little more information but I did have to take a picture.
Years ago my wife and I lived in Newfolden and one of her best friends was from southern Minnesota. Her dad was a farmer and he owned a 2+2. Her sons would often come home from a visit and talk about grandpa’s tractor. The tractor was nicknamed “Bouncing Betsy.” Being aJohn Deere man I didn’t get into the big IH tractor but now I wish I would have. They are a pretty neat looking machine.
The unique design was International Harvestor’s way of trying to bridge the gap between big articulated “prairie tractors” and simple two wheel drive machines. They didn’t exactly catch-on but several farmers who owned them found them to be greater tractors if they were used right.
Some of the features farmers liked were the fact the cab was located over the rear wheels providing a great view of the machinery being pulled behind. The engines were mounted in front of the front wheels which added weight and traction on the front axle. Another advantage was the draft load being pulled behind put most of its weight on the rear and even when turning the implement remained straight unlike the pivot of most articulated tractors.
The 2+2 tractors were reasonably successful but unfortunately IH was going through some economic problems even with the success of the 2+2 the company was struggling. On top of that a labor union strike in 1979 cost the company $579 million dollars. The sales of 4-wheel drive tractors plummeted and in 1984 TENNECO bought out the IH ag division and combined it with its Case division beginning the CASE/IH line.
I don’t suppose I will ever own a 2+2 tractor but I sure would like to take one for a spin!
How about a little tractor trivia!
1.There were 2496 model 3788s made. What 2 years were they made in?
2. The original price of a 3788 was _______________?
A) $50,000 B) $52,999 C) $57,000 D) $60,000
3. The model 3788 has a 6 cylinder turbo charged 466 cui. engine. It was tested at _________ hp on the PTO.
A) 150hp B) 159hp C) 166.75hp D) 170.57hp
4. The transmission in a 3788 has two ranges with _______ forward speeds and _______reverse.
A) 12/6 B) 8/4 C) 8/2 D) 16/4
5. What “Peanuts” character is often used as a nickname for the 2+2 tractors?
Answers: 1. 1980-1981 2. C. $57,000 3. D. 170.57hp 4. A. 12/6 5. Snoopy