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The 44 Special replaced the 44 in 1953. Both models were made that year. The H260 engine of the 44 was replaced by the H277 in gasoline models only. The H260 was retained for kerosene and propane as was the HD260 for diesel. The difference between the two engines is an increased cylinder bore. The H260 had a bore of 3.75" while the H277 had a 4" bore. This was done by inserting sleeves with the larger bore as the two engines share the same block, head and crankcase. Many H260 engines in 44's were rebuilt with the larger sleeves. This was called a "power up "kit. The front wheels were changed from stamped steel to cast iron. The rear wheels on standards were changed to a different pattern which took a different style rim than the 44. Row crops retained the cast rear wheel introduced on late 44's. Standard 44 Specials had a longer front frame than the 44 standard. This was the same frame used on the 44 row crop and 44 Special row crop. As a result the fuel tank was the same for the 44 Special standard as the row crops to make up the distance. 44 standards have a shorter fuel tank. (19 gallons as opposed to 23). 44 Special row crops featured a step for fueling the tractor and 44 Special standards came with wide fenders and a bigger operators platform as standard equipment. Later 44's came with narrow fenders as standard equipment. 44 Specials were made until 1955 when replaced by the 444.
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