International Harvester 856 Specs, Price and Review (2026)
Agricultural · 90 HP · Best for versatility and small farms
Power
90 HP (67.1 kW)
Fuel
Diesel
Transmission
Manual
PTO
77 HP @ 540 rpm
Weight
4,667 kg (5 t)
New price (est.)
$51,840 – $77,760
Est. used price
$18,144 – $54,432
Overview
Powered by a 90 HP engine, the International Harvester 856 is a agricultural tractor designed for mid-size farm fieldwork, loader use, and hay operations. Built by International Harvester, the 856 carries the engineering standards expected from this manufacturer. Here you will find all 856 specs: engine displacement, fuel system, transmission gears, hydraulic flow, lift capacity, PTO speed, and tractor dimensions. Our 856 review section below breaks down real-world strengths, trade-offs, and best use cases based on the technical specifications. Looking for the 856 price? Our used market section estimates current resale values, and the listings panel links to live marketplace data. Scroll down for the complete International Harvester 856 specification tables, suitability scores, price estimates, and links to similar tractors in our database.
TractorFitâ„¢ Analysis
Overall score
Based on specs and use-case fit for International Harvester 856.
This model sits in the 60–120 HP range that fits full-time farming and large-property management. Manual transmission is a proven choice for operators who prefer direct gear selection. As a farm tractor, it is built for fieldwork, PTO-driven implements, and all-day reliability. Rear PTO capability allows use of mowers, tillers, and other PTO-driven equipment. Key specs include 90 HP, 77 HP PTO, 5 t operating weight, estimated used range $18,144–$54,432, and overall suitability 53/100.
Higher = simpler
Pros
- ✓Simple maintenance; mechanical transmission with lower repair costs.
- ✓High versatility: PTO and hydraulic options for multiple implements.
- ✓Reliable manual transmission with low maintenance cost.
Cons
- •Limited capacity for intensive loader work.
- •Modest power-to-weight ratio; less agility in traction and on slopes.
- •Basic hydraulic system; limited for demanding implements.
International Harvester 856 receives an overall suitability score of 53/100 from the TractorSuitabilityâ„¢ Engine. mixed use with multiple PTO and hydraulic implements. The suitability sub-scores allow an objective comparison of performance across farm sizes and use types. Loader work rates 31/100; fuel efficiency index is 66/100. Maintenance is classified as Low: Mechanical transmission and straightforward engine design; lower repair costs and easier DIY or general dealer servicing. Operating cost tier is Moderate: Reasonable fuel efficiency and maintenance; operating costs are in line with the power class. Versatility (71/100) reflects PTO and hydraulic options; cost tier (59/100) reflects value for money. It has relative limitations in: large farm, loader. Overall, it offers a specialized profile for its class. The TractorSuitabilityâ„¢ Engine uses manufacturer technical data only to compute these indices in an objective, reproducible way. We recommend comparing these scores with your specific acreage, crop type, and implement needs before deciding.
Real-world performance & ownership
Highlights
- Strong engine power for PTO work and heavy drawbar loads.
- Manual transmission keeps design simple and ownership costs lower.
- 5 t operating weight fits a broad range of implements and conditions.
- Rated PTO output of 77 HP supports mowers, hay tools, and other driven implements.
- Versatility index supports a wide range of tasks and attachments.
- Estimated used price range: $18,144–$54,432 USD.
- Farm orientation targets fieldwork, PTO work, and reliability.
Trade-offs
- Maintenance complexity is rated on the higher side; factor in service access and parts availability.
- Loader and front attachment suitability is limited by design; best for lighter loader duties.
Best for
- Row-crop and hay operations
- Feeding and material handling
- Full-season fieldwork
- Mixed tasks and attachment use
Not ideal for
- Heavy, continuous loader work
- Low-maintenance-first buyers
International Harvester 856 — Pros and Cons
Pros
- Strong engine power for PTO work and heavy drawbar loads.
- Manual transmission keeps design simple and ownership costs lower.
- 5 t operating weight fits a broad range of implements and conditions.
- Rated PTO output of 77 HP supports mowers, hay tools, and other driven implements.
- Versatility index supports a wide range of tasks and attachments.
- Estimated used price range: $18,144–$54,432 USD.
- Farm orientation targets fieldwork, PTO work, and reliability.
Cons
- Maintenance complexity is rated on the higher side; factor in service access and parts availability.
- Loader and front attachment suitability is limited by design; best for lighter loader duties.
Used market insights
Estimated used price
$18,144 – $54,432 USD
High confidence
Estimate only. Actual prices vary by condition, hours, and region.
Buyer checklist
- Check engine and PTO hours; service history matters for long-term reliability.
- Confirm PTO speed (540/1000) and HP match your mowers, balers, or other implements.
- Inspect hydraulics and three-point hitch condition; repair costs can be high.
For used International Harvester 856, hours and service history matter. Confirm PTO and hydraulic operation, tire condition, and that implements match your HP and category.
Find Used Listings (International)
Technical Specifications
What this means: Engine specs define power for PTO work, drawbar load, and fuel use. Higher displacement often means more torque at lower rpm.
Engine
- Maximum Power (Gross)
- 90 HP (67.1 kW)
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
- Cooling
- Liquid
Compare with similar models
Better Alternatives
Frequently asked questions
How much does a used International Harvester 856 cost?
Used International Harvester 856 tractors are often listed in the range of $18,144–$54,432 USD (high confidence). Actual prices depend on hours, condition, and region.
Does the International Harvester 856 have a PTO?
Yes. The International Harvester 856 has a rear PTO rated at 77 HP at 540 rpm.
What is the horsepower of the International Harvester 856?
The International Harvester 856 is rated at 90 HP (gross) (67.1 kW).
Is the International Harvester 856 good for loader work?
TractorFit scores rate this model as less suited for loader work (31/100). Check front axle capacity and loader compatibility for your intended use.
What is the International Harvester 856 best used for?
As a farm tractor, the International Harvester 856 is suited to fieldwork, PTO-driven implements, hay work, and general estate or small-farm tasks.
What type of transmission does the International Harvester 856 have?
The International Harvester 856 uses a manual transmission.
What should I check when buying a used International Harvester 856?
Verify hours, condition, service history, PTO operation, hydraulics, and tire wear. Confirm weight and dimensions if you need to transport or match implements.
International Harvester 856: Complete Tractor Specifications and Technical Data
Overview
The International Harvester 856 is a agricultural tractor from International Harvester designed for agricultural operations. This comprehensive tractor specifications guide provides complete technical data, engine specifications, transmission details, dimensions, and hydraulic system capabilities. This agricultural tractor features a 90 HP diesel engine with manual transmission, delivering reliable performance. Our tractor database provides detailed specifications and technical data for the International Harvester 856, making it easy to compare with other models in the International Harvester lineup or across different brands.
Engine Specifications
The International Harvester 856 is powered by a diesel engine that delivers 90 HP for agricultural tasks. Tractor horsepower is a critical specification that determines the machine's ability to handle various implements. The engine specifications demonstrate International Harvester's engineering expertise in creating efficient powerplants.
- Maximum Power: 90 HP (67.1 kW)
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
Transmission Specifications
The International Harvester 856 features a manual transmission system. Transmission type affects power delivery and operational efficiency. Different transmission types offer various advantages for different operating conditions and implement requirements.
Dimensions and Weight
Understanding tractor dimensions and weight is essential for storage, transport, and operational compatibility. The International Harvester 856's specifications help determine if the tractor fits your operational requirements.
- Weight: 4667 kg (10.289 lbs)
Power Take-Off (PTO)
The PTO system allows the tractor to transfer engine power to driven implements. PTO specifications, including horsepower and speed ratings, are essential when selecting implements.
- PTO Speed: 540 rpm
- PTO Power: 77 HP (57 kW)
Performance and Applications
The International Harvester 856 delivers 90 HP performance for agricultural applications including plowing, planting, and harvesting. Tractor performance metrics, including power output, hydraulic capabilities, and dimensions, determine the machine's suitability for various tasks. When evaluating tractor performance, consider your specific application requirements, operating conditions, and implement needs to ensure the International Harvester 856 matches your operational demands.
Technical Data Summary
This guide provides complete technical data and detailed specifications for the International Harvester 856. Key specifications include: 90 HP engine, manual transmission, 77 HP PTO, and 4667 kg weight. These tractor specifications enable accurate comparisons with other models. Our tractor database provides comprehensive data for thousands of models, making it easy to research specifications and compare tractors.
Conclusion
The International Harvester 856 is a reliable agricultural tractor from International Harvester, designed for modern farming operations. With its 90 HP diesel engine and manual transmission, weighing 5 tons, it provides dependable performance for agricultural tasks. This comprehensive guide offers all essential International Harvester 856 tractor data and specifications for informed decision-making.
Conclusion
With 90 HP, the International Harvester 856 is a model worth considering carefully for operators who need Row-crop and hay operations, Feeding and material handling, Full-season fieldwork. Check the price range shown above and compare with similar models to ensure it fits your budget. Use our comparison tool to stack the 856 against other tractors in the same HP range before making a final decision.