A Ford TW-35 is the top of the second-generation TW line, and on a used-equipment lot it sits next to a lot of tractors that look nearly the same: the earlier TW-30, the smaller TW-15 and TW-25 built alongside it, and the 8830 that replaced it. On top of that, TW-35s come in two versions, the original and the Series II. If you're shopping for one or trying to order the right parts for one you already have, the first job is pinning down exactly what's in front of you.

This page covers how to identify a TW-35 and its version by named features, where the serial number is and how to date it, and what to check on a high-horsepower tractor that has probably worked hard.

Where the TW-35 fits

Ford updated its TW tractors in 1983. The TW-10, TW-20 and TW-30 became the TW-15, TW-25 and TW-35, and the TW-35 took over from the TW-30 at the top. Ford bought New Holland in 1986, and in 1990 the TW line was replaced by the Ford New Holland 8030 series, with the 8830 taking the TW-35's place (Tractor Data). The title's 1983–1986 covers the original TW-35. The Series II version, introduced in 1985, carried on until the 8030 series arrived.

Specifications

EngineFord 6.6 L (401 cu in) 6-cylinder turbocharged, intercooled diesel
PowerAbout 171 PTO hp and about 146 drawbar hp (Nebraska test 1537, 1984)
Transmission16-speed partial powershift (Dual Power)
DriveTwo-wheel drive or front-wheel assist
HitchCategory II or III
WeightAbout 13,700–15,100 lb
Fuel tank75 gal, or 100 gal on Series II tractors
BuiltAntwerp, Belgium, from 1983

Specs are from Tractor Data. A 2WD TW-35 was also tested in 1984 (test 1517) at about 170 PTO hp.

Identifying a TW-35

TW-35 vs. TW-30. Both have the turbocharged, intercooled 401 and similar sheet metal, so a quick look won't separate them. Use the decal first, then confirm with the serial number: a TW-30 was built from 1979 to 1983, and a TW-35 from 1983 on. A tractor numbered well into the 1984 or later range can't be a TW-30.

TW-35 vs. TW-15 and TW-25. These three were sold side by side and share the same frame and engine block. Tractor Data lists the TW-25 as turbocharged and the TW-35 as turbocharged and intercooled, so look for the intercooler between the turbo and the intake manifold. Then check the decal and the 16-speed shifter. Tested power was about 171 PTO hp for the TW-35, well above the smaller two.

Original vs. Series II. The Series II update came in 1985 with revised paint and decals and Ford's Super Q cab, plus twin assistor rams on the three-point hitch that raised lift capacity (Southern Star). Tractor Data lists the Series II TW-35's fuel tank at 100 gallons, up from 75. A 1985-or-later serial, the Super Q cab, the assistor rams and the larger tank together point to a Series II.

TW-35 vs. 8830. The 8830 is a 1990-on Ford New Holland tractor with its own decals, and Tractor Data lists TW-35 serials only through 1990, so a TW-35 decal on a later tractor deserves a question.

Finding and dating the serial number

Tractor Data gives the location as under the forward right grille panel. Open or remove the panel at the right front of the hood and look for the stamped number. A wire brush and chalk help on a rusty one.

Tractor Data's year starting numbers for the TW-35 are:

  • 1983: C694500
  • 1984: C707400
  • 1985: C732600
  • 1986: A915854
  • 1987: A917560
  • 1988: A919438
  • 1989: A922535
  • 1990: A925099

Note the prefix switch from C to A in 1986. The letter is part of the number, so read the full number against the list.

Worked example (made-up number): a serial of A918200 falls between the 1987 start (A917560) and the 1988 start (A919438), so the tractor was built in 1987. That's after the 1985 Series II update, so you'd expect a Series II tractor with the Super Q cab and the 100-gallon tank. If it has the earlier cab, ask whether the cab was swapped.

These numbers are shared across Ford's models, so a serial dates the tractor but doesn't identify it as a TW-35 on its own.

What to check before buying

  • Engine hours and condition. A 170 hp tractor was bought to work, so expect high hours. Check for blow-by at the breather with the engine warm, coolant in the oil, and oil in the coolant. Ask for rebuild records.
  • Turbo and intercooler. Look for oil around the turbo and in the intake piping, and check the shaft for play with the engine off. Make sure the intercooler isn't plugged with chaff.
  • The partial powershift. Test every range under load. The powershift low range should engage without slipping or a long delay.
  • Front-wheel assist. Listen for noise from the front axle in turns, look for leaks at the hub seals, and check for play in the steering joints.
  • Hydraulics and hitch. Lift a heavy implement and let it sit. It should hold. Run the remotes at the same time and watch for the lift slowing badly.
  • Cab. Check the heat, air conditioning, glass, door seals and wiring. A Super Q cab that's been neglected is an expensive fix.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Assuming a TW-35 is a TW-30 with new decals, or the reverse. The serial year tells you which one it can be. Check it before you agree on a price.
  • Ordering parts by model name alone. Series II tractors changed the cab and fuel tank, among other things. Give the parts counter the full serial number.
  • Skipping the load test. A tired powershift or hydraulic pump often feels fine at idle. Drive it with a load or an implement.
  • Ignoring the intercooler. A plugged or leaking intercooler costs power and lets the engine run hot. It's an easy check that often gets missed.
  • Reading the serial without its letter. C and A numbers are different runs. A915854 is not a lower number than C732600 in any useful sense.

For the generation that came after the TW-35, see the Ford 8630, which uses the same basic 6.6-liter engine.