History
The Farmall Super C was produced by International Harvester from 1951 to 1954 at the Rock Island, Illinois plant. It was the evolutionary pinnacle of IH's C-series row-crop tractors, replacing the earlier Farmall C (1948–1951) with a more powerful engine, improved brakes, and refined hydraulics. With 98,310 units built over four years, the Super C became a familiar sight on American farms.
The Super C was part of IH's "Super" line—a mid-cycle upgrade program that also included the Super A and Super H. The engine was bored out to 122.7 cubic inches (2.0 L), up from the C's 113 cubic inches, delivering a tested 20.72 hp at the drawbar and 23.67 hp at the belt. The disc brakes—a major upgrade from the C's contracting band brakes—provided more reliable stopping in wet or muddy conditions.
In 1953, IH introduced the innovative Fast-Hitch system as an option on the Super C. This two-point coupling system allowed the operator to attach and detach implements without leaving the seat, a significant convenience over traditional hitch pins. While it wasn't a full three-point draft-sensing system like Ferguson's, it kept IH competitive in the implement market.
The Super C was replaced in late 1954 by the Farmall 200, which featured updated styling while retaining the same basic chassis and engine. The numbered series continued through the 230 (1956) and 240 (1958). Today, restored Super Cs are popular on the vintage tractor show circuit, prized for their rugged simplicity, parts availability, and unmistakable Farmall red styling.
Photo Gallery
Images by Acroterion and Royalbroil — CC BY-SA 4.0
Specifications
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Farmall (International Harvester) |
| Production | 1951 – 1954 |
| Total Built | 98,310 |
| Original Price | $1,700 (1954) |
| Engine | IHC C123 — 122.7 ci (2.0 L), 4-cylinder gasoline, liquid-cooled |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.125 × 4.00 in (79 × 102 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 6.0:1 |
| Rated RPM | 1,400 |
| Drawbar Power (tested) | 20.72 hp (15.5 kW) |
| Belt/PTO Power (tested) | 23.67 hp (17.7 kW) |
| Transmission | 4-speed sliding gear (4 forward, 1 reverse) |
| Weight | 3,100 lb (1,406 kg) — 5,039 lb ballasted |
| Wheelbase | 82.25 in (208 cm) |
| Length | 123 in (312 cm) |
| Height | 74.75 in (189 cm) |
| Fuel Tank | 11 US gal (41.6 L) |
| Brakes | Differential mechanical disc |
| Steering | Manual |
| Front Tires | 5.00–15 |
| Rear Tires | 10–36 |
| PTO Speed | 540 RPM (rear) |
| Hitch | IH Fast-Hitch (optional from 1953) |
| Serial Number Location | Seat support frame |
Production Timeline
Farmall C introduced, replacing the earlier Farmall B and A models in the medium row-crop segment.
Farmall Super C launched (serial FC100001). Engine bored to 122.7 ci, disc brakes replace band brakes. Nebraska Test 458 conducted May 31 – June 9.
IH Fast-Hitch system introduced as an option, allowing tool-free implement changes from the operator's seat.
Super C production ends at serial FC187788. Replaced by the Farmall 200, sharing the same basic drivetrain with updated styling.
Farmall 230 succeeds the 200, adding further refinements.
Farmall 240 introduced — the last of the C-size numbered series.
Interesting Facts
- Fast-Hitch Innovation: The Super C's optional Fast-Hitch could couple and uncouple implements without the operator leaving the seat. The driver simply backed up to align the hitch points and lifted a lever — no tools needed.
- Not a 1959 Model: Despite the common misconception, production ended in 1954. The "1959" label often seen on restored Super Cs refers to the restoration year or a misinterpretation of casting date codes. There is no such thing as a factory 1959 Super C.
- Nebraska Tested: The Super C was put through the rigorous Nebraska Tractor Test (Test #458) in 1951, where it exceeded its own claimed power figures — posting 20.72 drawbar hp (claimed 20.7) and 23.67 belt hp (claimed 23.67).
- 6-Volt Electrical System: The Super C used a 6-volt electrical system with a positive ground — a configuration that sometimes confuses modern owners accustomed to 12-volt negative-ground systems. Many restorations convert to 12V.
- Oil Bath Air Cleaner: The engine used an oil bath air cleaner, common for the era. Air was drawn through a pool of oil that trapped dust and debris, requiring regular cleaning and oil replenishment.
- Belt Pulley Power: Before widespread PTO-driven implements, the Super C could be equipped with a belt pulley (8.5" diameter, 6" wide) running at 1,363 RPM to drive stationary equipment like buzz saws, feed grinders, and water pumps.
- Versatile Tire Options: The adjustable rear tread width (47 to 80 inches) and optional narrow front end made the Super C adaptable to various row-crop configurations — from narrow-row vegetables to wide-row corn.
- Collector Appeal: Restored Super Cs regularly command $5,000–$12,000 at auction. Their simplicity (no computers, no hydraulics to fail), robust construction, and excellent parts support make them ideal entry-level vintage tractors.