The Ford 740: a rock-solid 30 horsepower tractor

May 11, 2017

Consider this model for your next pulling tractor

IN THE SHOP with Rachel

By Rachel Gingell
Farms.com

The Ford 740 is a good value for light chores but it really shines as a pulling tractor.

The model designation of this tractor can be confusing. It’s commonly referred to as a “700 Ford” and may even have that designation on the hood. The model 740 is the only tractor in Ford’s 700 Series, so the designations “740” and “700” are often used interchangeably to describe the same tractor. The 700 series was produced from 1954 to 1957, when it was replaced by the 701 Workmaster series.

The 740 came with optional power steering … and that’s about it. A few LP gas models were produced but the vast majority of these tractors are gasoline. The tractor uses a fuel-efficient 2.2 L Ford four-cylinder gasoline engine. It has a basic, non-live PTO and a six-volt electrical system.

If you are looking for a basic farm tractor that’s reliable and easy to repair, the Ford 740 is a good choice. With more than 100,000 of these tractors produced, you’ll have no shortage of parts and advice – especially when you consider that many of the parts on this tractor are interchangeable with later models in the 701 Workmaster series as well. I admire Ford tractors for their straightforward designs and ease of repair, and the 740 is no exception.

The 740 truly shines, though, as a pulling tractor. My dad calls this tractor a “terror” – that’s his highest praise, and I agree! The 740 is a great choice because its bare-bones design, narrow front and lightweight frame allow you to add a powerful motor (the Ford 172 and 192 power units would fit perfectly) while still fitting into a lighter weight class. For pulling, the transmission is solid enough to handle the increased power without too much trouble.

The 740 makes for a very economical and fun tractor – and it would go together quickly, too, just in time for the summer pulling season.

Video: How farmers are protecting the soil and our food security | DW Documentary

For a long time, soil was all but ignored. But for years, the valuable humus layer has been thinning. Farmers in Brandenburg are clearly feeling the effects of this on their sandy fields. Many are now taking steps to prepare their farms for the future.

Years of drought, record rainfall and failed harvests: we are becoming increasingly aware of how sensitively our environment reacts to extreme weather conditions. Farmers' livelihoods are at stake. So is the ability of consumers to afford food.

For a few years now, agriculture that focuses solely on maximum yields has been regarded with increasing skepticism. It is becoming more and more clear just how dependent we are on healthy soils.

Brandenburg is the federal state with the worst soil quality in Germany. The already thin, fertile humus layer has been shrinking for decades. Researchers and farmers who are keen to experiment are combating these developments and looking for solutions. Priority is being given to building up the humus layer, which consists of microorganisms and fungi, as well as springtails, small worms and centipedes.

For Lena and Philipp Adler, two young vegetable farmers, the tiny soil creatures are invaluable helpers. On their three-hectare organic farm, they rely on simple, mechanical weed control, fallow areas where the soil can recover, and diversity. Conventional farmer Mark Dümichen also does everything he can to protect soil life on his land. For years, he has not tilled the soil after the harvest and sows directly into the field. His yields have stabilized since he began to work this way.

Isabella Krause from Regionalwert AG Berlin-Brandenburg is convinced after the experiences of the last hot summers that new crops will thrive on Brandenburg's fields in the long term. She has founded a network of farmers who are promoting the cultivation of chickpeas with support from the scientific community.