David Brown SELECTAMATIC-Baureihe
2 models in this series
David Brown Selectamatic range – 780 and 880: the 1965 hydraulic control system from Meltham, three-cylinder engines at 34.3 kW/46 hp, 2,694 to 2,696 cc and 1,683 to 1,810 kg unladen weight
David Brown built its tractors in Meltham, West Yorkshire, and launched the Selectamatic generation in 1965. Selectamatic was not a single model but the redesigned control panel that for the first time brought hydraulics, power take-off and electrics together under one centralised layout, replacing the separate levers of earlier ranges. The 780 and 880 listed here sit in the lower and middle power bracket of that generation and share David Brown's own three-cylinder diesel engine.
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The register lists 2 variants at 34.3 kW, or 46 hp, from three-cylinder engines of 2,694 to 2,696 cc displacement at a rated speed of 2,200 rpm. Torque runs from 149 to 163 Nm, with PTO output at 46 hp. Unladen weights range from 1,683 to 1,810 kg, dimensions from 3,086 to 3,230 mm in length, 1,650 to 1,750 mm in width and 1,410 to 1,490 mm in height.
The Selectamatic generation placed David Brown alongside Ford, Massey Ferguson and Nuffield in the mid-1960s British market, and its centralised controls were considered user-friendly for the period. The compact dimensions and moderate weight made the 780 and 880 versatile yard tractors for smaller and medium-sized farms.
When buying a used example, check the Selectamatic panel itself: worn contacts and leaking control valves are the most common faults. The three-cylinder diesel is regarded as robust but needs sound injection pumps and tight head gaskets. Gearbox and clutch should be checked for synchromesh wear, and the bodywork for rust around the wings and radiator grille. Parts are generally sourced through specialist dealers for British vintage tractors.
Sources: SpecCodex register, model data: David Brown Selectamatic-Baureihe
Models
Tractor in 3D section
Turn the model, look inside and click an assembly — each one is explained.
