Big Bud 747: The World's Largest Farm Tractor & an Inspiration to Future Generations of Farmers

The Big Bud 747, the world's largest farm tractor, was built in Havre, Montana, in 1977, has 1,100 horsepower, and remains an iconic symbol of power and progress in agriculture.

The Big Bud 747, also known as the 16V-747 Big Bud was built in Havre, Montana, in 1977. It has 1,100 horsepower and is the world's largest farm tractor. The tractor was designed for deep ripping and can work more than one acre per minute at speeds up to 8 mph.

Original Creation and Purpose

Constructed by Ron Harmon and the team at the Northern Manufacturing Company, the tractor was designed to produce 760 horsepower, featuring a 16-cylinder Detroit Diesel engine. Its colossal dimensions include 27 feet in length, 20 feet in width, and 14 feet in height. Specially crafted 8-foot diameter tires by the United Tire Company of Canada supported its massive frame. When fully fueled with a 1,000-gallon tank, the tractor weighs over 100,000 pounds.

Farm Application and Owners

Originally commissioned for the Rossi Brothers, cotton farmers in Bakersfield, California, the Big Bud was utilized for deep ripping. After 11 years with the Rossi Brothers, it transitioned to Willowbrook Farms in Indialantic, Florida, continuing its deep ripping duties before being retired.

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Return to Montana

In 1997, the Big Bud returned to Montana, near its place of origin. Purchased by the Williams Brothers of Big Sandy, Montana, it found a new home in Chouteau County. The tractor, now with a striking new paint job and chrome stacks, was employed for cultivation purposes, pulling an 80-foot cultivator.

Recent Updates

In July 2020, the original eight-foot-tall construction tires were replaced with Goodyear LSW1400/30r46 tires, bringing the width of the Big Bud to just over 25 feet. The updated tires were provided by the Williams Brothers, who own the tractor. Despite its massive size, the Big Bud continues to work the farm ground with an 80-foot wide FRIGGSTAD chisel plow.

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World Record Holder

For over 40 years, the Big Bud has claimed the title of the "World's Largest Farm Tractor." Its enduring legacy is marked by its original creation in the late '70s and its continuous operation, albeit now as a showpiece parked outside the Big Equipment Co. building in Havre, Montana. Despite its showpiece status, it once tugged a 35,000-pound cultivator down rows at an impressive acre-per-minute pace. The tractor is still a symbol of power and progress, and it is sure to be admired for many years to come.