Earthmaster

Earthmaster

A Brief History

This tractor, manufactured by the Earthmaster Farm Equipment company in Burbank, California was made for only two years. The Model C came out in 1948 and was followed by the "CN" (narrow-width model), "CNH (narrow-width high-crop model), "CH" (high-crop), "D" and the "DH" (high-crop) in 1949. The main difference between the models was tire size, tractor width and cultivating height. The "D" series were about 20 inches wider overall than the "C" series. They all shared the same Continental N62 Engine. A full line of mounted implements were available that attached with the easy "Earthmaster Speedi-Hitch". 9 forward speeds were possible with it's 3 transmission ratios and 3 throttle settings.

The following is an excerpt from a 1949 Sales Brochure for the Model C:

"Here's 100 acre performance for farms as small as 20 acres. Progressive engineering, war-developed materials and production techniques make such a tractor possible for the first time. Functional, flexible, economical - here's a tractor for every man."

"The Earthmaster is a complete tractor in all respects with every feature demanded by modern farming. There's the new "Duomatic" hydraulic control for effortless implement handling. Extra strength and longer life from built-up welded steel construction in place of traditional castings. 9 Forward speeds are possible with Earthmaster's 3 transmission ratios, 3 throttle settings. The Model C has full 20 inch clearance while the Model CH features an exceptional 24-1/2 inch clearance. Either can be set lower if desired. Wheelbase can be altered for greater efficiency under varied conditions. Wheel adjustments are made in 4 inch steps from 36 inch to 64 inch. The full line of matched, mounted implements also employs built-up steel construction and attaches with the easy Earthmaster Speedi-Hitch."

The Earthmaster Today

The Earthmaster tractor is currently enjoying a surge in popularity. In size and horsepower, it is in the same class as the Massey-Harris Pony (they actually share the same engine even). Due to the increase in popularity as a collector's item and show tractor they have gone up in price accordingly, depending upon what kind of shape it is in. When restoring one of these, sheet metal and body parts can be hard to find. Engine parts however are easy to come by - you may not find them listed under the category of "Earthmaster" (most parts stores and catalogs don't even list this tractor) but you will find compatible engine parts under the "Allis-Chalmers G" category or the "Massey-Harris Pony" category since these too have the Continental N62 engine. You can also order engine parts directly from a Continental distributor since Continental is still in business. As a working tractor, they are great for cultivating chores in a large garden.

The Specs

The specifications varied with each different member of the series. What follows is the specification for the Model C.

Engine: Continental N62 L-head, 4-cyl vertical
Service Data: Auto-Lite 18 mm spark plugs, 3-ring pistons (2 compression 3/32", 1 oil 1/4")
Accessories: Auto-Lite Model GAS-4169A generator standard equipment; Auto-Lite model 1M80R battery; Zenith Model 61S5 carburetor, size 5/8"; Continental built-in governor; Dietz lamps; Vortox Model G-38F air cleaner; Purolator Model P-1000 oil filter; Auburn 2-piece clutch, part no X6500-1; McCord radiator core, capacity 1-1/2 gals.; own radiator shutter optional equipment; fuel tank capacity 7 gals;
Rated rpm: 2000
Tires: Standard - 8x24 rear; 4.00x15 front. Oversize - 9x24 rear
Speeds: (At 2000 RPM) Standard tires - 2.52, 3.59 and 5.75 mph, reverse 3.02 mph
Shipping Weight: 2065 pounds
Dimensions: Wheelbase 66"; height overall 61"; width overall, min 51", max 72";
Pulley: (Optional) 7x5", 1540 rpm; belt speed 2830 fpm;
Lubrication: Crankcase capacity 4 qts; transmission case capacity 5/8 gal; capacity each final drive housing 1qt.

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