A transitional model

The D-series, launched in 1956, consisted only of diesel-enginged variants - with one exception. Only the E30 had a petrol engine, but there became less and less of a demand for it. For the firt time, two versions used an air-cooled M.W.M. diesel (D22 and D35) and a third was soon added, the compact D16.  Only the D30 (R7051) left the factory in Le Mans with a British diesel engine, a Perkins, or, to be more precise, the Perkins P3 TA/4924, which had a capacity of 2,365 ccs, and which initially produced 30hp.

In 1960, when Renault launched the N Series, the D Series served as a familiar base.  In fact, apart from a few minor details, the D and N Series are identical.  However, there is a different hydraulic lift machanism (Type 324). Although production started at the beginning of March 1960, all types in the N-series were not fitted with a different grille until the September of that year.  In all cases, the existing engines produced a bit more power.  The D30 became the N71, fitted with the same Perkins diesel engine, which now produced 35hp.  This engine was quickly followed by the P3 144, the main difference being the fitment a rotary fuel pump. Based on this Renault N71, an S-version was launched with a slightly larger Perkins Type P3 152 engine, having a capacity of exactly 2,500 cc divided between three cylinders. This Renault version was released mainly for a number of export countries, where the spare parts supply for English engines was optimal. This does not apply only to Anglo-Saxon countries, but, for instance, also to an important market, such as Spain.

Developments followed very quickly and a new version was launched based on the N71S, which was given the name Super 7.  Production started in August 1962 and the model paved the way for another overhaul of the whole range. The model was given the number R7055, but it retained the same technology as that of the N71S.  This means the 2.5-litre Perkins diesel, the power of which increased yet again to 42hp.  This makes the Super 7 the top model of the Renault range.  A distinguishing feature of the Perkins engine is its liquid cooling, in contrast to the air-cooling of the M.W.M. models.  An advantage of liquid cooling is the lowering of the noise level.  A version of the Super 7 was also released with a petrol engine, but the production numbers were limited to 539.  Before the end of 1962, a smaller version was added in the form of the Super 5 (R7054). However, this did not have a Perkins diesel, but a Renault/Alfa diesel (Type 592-30) producing 35 hp.  In order to complete the programme, from July 1963, Renault also introduced a Super 4 with a 30hp diesel power unit, a model especially attuned to German-speaking countries.  During the last year of its existence, the Super 7 received a new bonnet, which was no longer round at the front as previously, but more rectangular.  All the models in the Super series underwent these changes. The N72 and N70 models kept their R-numbers, but, from that moment on, went through life as the Super 3 and the Super 6, whilst retaining their air-cooled M.W.M. engines.

The Figuet family owns this beautifully restored Super 7, which is part of its collection and of which we have already revealed the Master 4x4 and AFVH versions in previous editions.  This tractor has also been fully restored by a father and his two sons and it is in beautiful condition.  The engine has been completely dismantled and rebuilt.  Work was also carried out on the body in various places.  The bonnets of the N-series and the Super with round noses have been strengthened at the level of the headlights, in comparison the D-series.  But, in fact, this reinforcement retained water, which caused the hood to rust.

A remarkable detail is that this tractor is already fitted with a Tracto Control lift, quickly recognisable by the specific control levers to the right side of the seat.  When considering the round bonnet, this is not historically correct, but Sébatien Figuet always had an idea that this tractor was a prototype.  

Fortunately, via the chassis number, information from the Amicale du Tracteur Renault moves us much further forward.  If one enters the number 7510334, we arrive at a production date of 3 December 1966.  This indicates a Renault Super 7D, the improved version of the Super 7, which commenced production on June 1, 1965.

The most important change concerns the brand new Tracto Control lifting system.  Externally, the Super 7D can be recognised by a modified bonnet with a different grille and white wheels. Of course it is not beyond the bounds of possibility that, during a period of fifty-five years, changes may have been made by previous owners. The round and square bonnet are easily interchangeable. In addition, the diamond-shaped plate with the chassis number is screwed to a panel.  From the D-series up to and including the Super D series, it is possible to cannibalise Renault tractors, simply by unscrewing the bolts, which hold the engine and the gearbox together.  This also makes it possible that, at some time or another, the front and rear of two different tractors might have been joined together.

What is much more important is that this model has been beautifully restored and that all the details are present.  Think of all the metal trim, the corrrect badge, the Renault and Super 7 nameplates, the double air filter and the correctly shaped front weight. Of the Super 7 diesel with both bonnet types, a total of 9,877 were built.

En detail...

Renault Super 7 R7055

Specifications

Engine:

3-cylinder Perkins P3 152 diesel, 91.44 bore x 127 stroke mm, displacement 2,502 ccs.  Power 42 hp, maximum rpm 2,150 rpm, compression ratio 17.4:1. Six-speed gearbox with optional doubler on the first four gears (type 292), 5 and 6 synchronized, maximum speed at maximum rpm 0.86 - 23.89 km/h.

Suspension:

Centrally suspended front axle with adjustable track width, type 353 swingarm. Drum brakes acting on the differential axles. Tyres: front 6.00/6.50-16, rear 11-28/12-28/9-36/11-36 or 12.00-24.

Dimensions:

Length 3.130 mm, width 1.570 - 2.140 mm, height to steering wheel 1.550 mm, wheelbase 1.750 mm, ground clearance 0.390 mm, track width front 1.200 - 1.900 mm, track width rear 1.200 - 1.800 mm. Turning circle without brakes 3.25 m (with the narrowest track width). Weight: 

Weight:

Empty vehicle 1,590 kg, with ballast weight 2,310 kg. Fuel tank capacity 40 litres.

Lifting device:

Type 3R/324 with position control. External hydraulic connection for operating lifting cylinders. Independent oil pump, pump pressure 160 kg/cm2, capacity 20 litres.