Minneapolis Threshing Machine Company 15-30

The Minneapolis 15-30, developed by the Minneapolis Threshing Machine Company, reflects the heritage of early 20th-century standard-tread tractors. Known for its robust build, the 15-30 was designed to handle a broad range of agricultural tasks, from plowing to powering threshing machines. This model, predominately utilizing a 4x2 2WD chassis, is characterized by its manual steering and simple gear transmission system offering two forward gears and one reverse gear. The heart of the 15-30 is a 4-cylinder liquid-cooled gasoline engine with a displacement of 397.2 cubic inches. It operates at a rated RPM of 750, which was typical for tractors of its era. Despite the absence of information on power output, one can infer from its size and era that the 15-30 was not a high horsepower machine by today's standards but was capable in its time. It starts with a hand crank, which suggests that it lacks electrical systems common in later models. The tractor's substantial 5600-pound weight contributed to its stability and traction. The dimensions of 168 inches in length and 72 inches in width provided a formidable presence in the field. Additionally, equipped with large 56-inch-diameter steel wheels, the 15-30 maintained traction in various soil conditions, though it could be challenging to maneuver compared to modern tractors.