The mechanisation of Irish agriculture in the 50’s and early 60’s dramatically increased productivity, in turn saving labour.

The Dexta, Super Dexta, Major and Super Major were Ford tractors that many farmers cut their teeth on in this new mechanised era of farming.

When the time came to upgrade these tractors, Ford released its ‘Pre-Force’ thousand series tractors, known in-house as the ‘6X’ range.

Released in 1964, these tractors consisted of a line-up of four models: the 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000.

The thousand range was manufactured at Ford’s all new Basildon plant taking over tractor production from Dagenham.

This brought its own issues as the 6X range could prove to be unreliable while the plant found its feet.

The 6X was replaced by the 6Y ‘Force’ tractors in 1968, offering revised and sleeker styling, more power, a screw-on oil engine block oil filter, and a cab option, as well as other minor developments. The 6Y are easily recognised by the headlights in the nosecone.

For many people, the Ford 7000 (Southern Star 27/12/21) is the pinnacle of the thousand series.

However for Ford, the 4000 was an excellent seller, replacing horses with mechanical horsepower.

Fitted with Ford’s 3.3 litre engine, 6X 5000 tractors produced 54hp while the 6Y 4000 has a little more grunt at 61hp.

Unfortunately, these engines were prone to becoming porous, resulting in a considerable amount of engine blocks being replaced, which can be identified by the criss-cross pattern on the block.

The 4000 tips the scales at 2.4 tons with a lift capacity of 1.5 tons and hydraulic output of 20l/min.

Most tractors were fitted with a reliable 8F/2R nonsynchronised gearbox. A further option, although not popular, was the ‘Select-O-Speed’ transmission. Highly advanced for its time, this gearbox offered 10F/2R without using the clutch.

Gear selection is engaged by moving a lever on a quadrant, with the operator being able to cycle through the full range of gears without using the clutch.

Manufactured by Fieco, Ford’s Safety cab was introduced in 1970, with its white topped roof with Ford lettering in red.

The entry through the door is tight and although it protected the operator from the elements and accidents, it could be detrimental to one’s hearing due to the excessive noise and vibration.

A deluxe cab was also available with interior padding and glass rear window, which numbed the noise minimally.

Today, the tractor is both nostalgic and iconic, even for those who have been left hard of hearing!

Contact Peter at [email protected] or see Instagram @flashphotoscork