Minneapolis-Moline first introduced the Model Z in 1937. The early Model Z had a 186 cid, four-cylinder, engine with a unique design. The values were set at a horizontal angle while the cylinders were set vertical. In stead of push rods and lifters, long rocker arms ran off the camshaft to the values. This design eliminated 154 parts and made it possible to remove the pan and work on the bottom of the engine while sitting in a chair. In the early 1940s Minneapolis-Moline pioneered the use of LP gas as a fuel for tractors. M-M tractors were one of the first to offer factory installed LP gas equipment as an option. In 1948, the Model ZA went into production. It featured a 206 cid engine with the same design as the Z and was rated as a 2-3 plow tractor with 32 h.p. on the belt. The ZA was available with a duel wheel tricycle front, single wheel, adjustable front wheels and standard tread models. It featured a 5-speed transmission with speeds ranging from 2.4 to 13.1 m.p.h. The ZA series was very popular until it was replaced by the new ZB models in 1953.
All Rights Reserved, Copyright By Edward C. Schaefer, 2009.
