Introduced in 1990 to replace the established TW series, the 132hp to 186hp Ford 8630, 8730 and 8830 tractor models can be considered as a bridge between old and new tractor generations. From the past, Ford retained the sheer weight and relatively simple six-cylinder engines of the TWs. New departures were a powershift transmission, performance monitor, air suspension seat and four-wheel drive as standard. James de Havilland reports