953 nut 55,194 #1 Posted June 12 Earthquake tractor “Earthquake was built by Rite Manufacturing of Great Falls, Montana. They built 38 tractors. They started out redoing Wagner tractors switching them, and then they built Rite tractors from 300 to 750 horsepower.” Rite tractor was described as the first to offer an Allison automatic, infinitely variable speed, mechanical transmission. The articulated, 400 hp Model 404 weighed 45,000 lbs. and measured 15 ft., 11 in. wide with duals. Years ahead of their time, the tractors allowed the operator to “dial” in the desired speed. The transmission shifted up or down to maintain that speed. The Earthquake is one of a handful of 750 hp Rite tractors built. It later received a power boost bringing it to 850 hp. The Curtis Rite tractors featured custom cabs and Curtis designed transfer cases. Tractor cabs and hoods tilted out of the way for ease of service. They also had a patent on the hinge, which eliminated vibrations previously common in articulated tractors. “We used all standard components,” recalls Curtis. “People could order what they wanted. We used late model, low hour components to reduce costs, but added new technology as it was introduced. We had computers on the later models.” “I’ve still got a good crew ready to build another one if someone wants it,” says Curtis. “A new Rite 750 would be about $450,000 today with all new components.” 3 4 4 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
8ntruck 6,998 #2 Posted June 12 Geeze - looks like that rig truly needs a 5 acre field to turn around in. 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
953 nut 55,194 #3 Posted June 12 7 hours ago, 8ntruck said: Geeze - looks like that rig truly needs a 5 acre field to turn around in. With a 20 bottom plow you wouldn't need to turn around on a five acre field, one pass and you're done. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
