Unique Features of the New Holland TV 145 Birectional Tractor

The New Holland TV 145 birectional tractor is a quirky and unique machine that, while no longer produced, remains interesting for its specialized features. This tractor stood out for certain applications, making it quite different from the typical tractors found today.

What Makes the TV 145 So Unique?

One of the main distinguishing features of the TV 145 is that it is a birectional tractor. This means the tractor can operate forward or backward by swiveling the entire operator's platform. With a pull of a lever, the operator's seat rotates from facing forward to facing rearward, and the tractor’s controls adjust accordingly to allow operation in that direction. Additionally, the tractor is articulated at the middle, allowing it to bend, which gives it a tight turning radius. This articulation makes it very versatile for tasks requiring maneuverability.

Birectional Capabilities and Attachments

Because the TV 145 can run in either direction, it comes equipped with both a front and rear three-point hitch and PTO (Power Take-Off). Hydraulic remotes are also available for operating a variety of attachments. This setup makes the tractor flexible for many different tasks. A common use of the front three-point hitch historically was to run a front hay mower. Instead of dragging the mower behind, operators could mount it in front, increasing efficiency. Today, tractors with butterfly mowers and front three-point hitches are much more common, but the TV 145 was ahead of its time with this feature.

Rear Setup and Application

Looking at the back of the tractor, the TV 145 features a standard rear three-point hitch, with the unique advantage that when the seat is rotated, the operator sits directly above the hitch. This configuration has made the tractor popular with highway mowing applications, where the operator’s proximity to the boom mower is a major advantage. Many highway crews have preferred the TV 145 for these reasons, benefiting from the close position to their equipment which enhances control and safety. The rear of the tractor functions just like any typical tractor with draw bars, hydraulic remotes, and PTO’s for standard farming tasks.

The Unique Rearward-Facing Loader

Unlike most tractors, which have front loaders, the TV 145 often came with a removable loader mounted on the rear. The loader is controlled with two pedals on the floor, reminiscent of old hand-and-foot operated skid loaders. This allows operators accustomed to skid loaders to easily transition to using the TV 145's loader. The operator faces the rear when using the loader, providing excellent sight lines similar to those in wheel loaders. This setup is perfect for moving silage or working in confined spaces like bunks. Hydraulic levers on the right-hand side provide an alternative way to control the loader for those who prefer hand controls.

Hydrostatic Transmission

Another unexpected aspect of the TV 145 is its hydrostatic transmission. While hydrostatics are common in small tractors today, this was less typical in the past for tractors of this size. The TV 145 uses a hand-operated lever to move between forward, neutral, and reverse, without the need for manual shifting. There are three operating ranges (low, medium, and high) to adjust speed and torque. However, the hydrostatic transmission reduced the efficiency of power delivery. The tractor’s 145 engine horsepower translated to just over 100 PTO horsepower due to transmission losses.

Operating the Rotating Seat and Controls

To switch directions, the operator must first shut the engine off, unlock the seat, slide it forward, and rotate both the seat and all the tractor controls 180 degrees. This process requires some physical effort but reorients the operator perfectly for the new direction of travel. All main controls are located on a side console, with air conditioning controls up near the roof and draft controls on the side pillar. The tractor adjusts drive direction automatically as the seat swivels, making driving intuitive whether facing forward or rearward.

Performance and Speed

Being a heavy machine with hydrostatic drive, the TV 145 is not particularly fast. Even at its highest range, acceleration is gradual and top speed moderate, similar to a much smaller hydrostatic tractor. Despite this, it remains very capable for its intended work.

Legacy and Market Presence

Although the TV 145 was never a top seller and production ceased after tier three engine regulations came into effect, it continues to have a surprising number of active units in use, especially around Messick’s. It remains desirable on the used market due to its uniqueness and specialized role. Its jack-of-all-trades nature means it excels in many applications but doesn’t dominate any single one. While some features have been surpassed by advancements in tractor engineering — such as tighter turning radius capabilities and more common front PTO-equipped tractors — the TV 145’s design still impresses many enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The New Holland TV 145 birectional tractor demonstrated impressive engineering care to meet niche needs. Its ability to operate forward and backward with a rotating operator platform, articulated midsection, rearward loader with skid steer-style controls, and hydrostatic transmission made it truly one of a kind. While no longer manufactured, demand for the TV 145 persists because it fulfills certain roles exceptionally well. For those looking for a tractor with both quirky charm and practical capabilities, the TV 145 remains a fascinating piece of agricultural equipment history.