The McCormick CX90 tractor is a 90 HP utility machine with a longer history and more brand complexity behind it than most buyers realise — and understanding that history is the difference between a confident purchase and an ownership headache. This review covers everything: full specifications, who actually makes it, how reliable it is, the most common problems, where to get parts, what maintenance it needs, how to find dealers, and how it compares to alternatives in the 90 HP class. Priced from $17,500 at Farmers Equipment with worldwide shipping available.
👉 See the McCormick CX90 for sale — $17,500 →
Written by: Farmers Equipment editorial team. Updated August 2026.
McCormick CX90 Tractor — Key Specifications
Full specifications for the McCormick CX90. Verify against the specific unit — specs vary by production year and configuration. For independent reference see TractorData.com.
| Specification | McCormick CX90 Details |
|---|---|
| Engine power | 90 HP |
| Engine type | 4-cylinder diesel — Perkins or ARGO Power (varies by year) |
| Transmission | 12F/12R Synchro Shuttle |
| Drive | 2WD or 4WD (MFWD) depending on configuration |
| PTO speeds | 540 / 1,000 RPM |
| Rear hydraulic lift capacity | ~5,000 lbs (varies by configuration) |
| Hydraulic remotes | 2 standard |
| Operating weight | ~7,000 lbs |
| Cab options | ROPS or enclosed cab with A/C and heat |
| Loader compatible | Yes |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Production period | Late 1990s–early 2000s |
| Current market status | Legacy / used market only — no new production |
| Price at Farmers Equipment | $17,500 — worldwide shipping available |
Who Makes McCormick Tractors — and What Happened to the Brand?
This is the most important question to understand before buying a McCormick CX90, because the brand history directly affects parts sourcing and dealer support.
The Brand History
- 1831 — Cyrus McCormick founds the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company — one of the founding companies of American agricultural machinery
- 1902 — McCormick merges with others to form International Harvester
- 1984 — International Harvester sells its agricultural equipment division to Tenneco, which rebrands it as Case IH
- 1999 — Case Corporation and New Holland merge to form CNH Global. At this point, Case IH, New Holland, and the McCormick brand are all under CNH ownership
- 2001 — EU antitrust regulators require CNH to divest the McCormick brand as a condition of merger approval. McCormick is acquired by ARGO SpA — an Italian agricultural equipment group
- 2001–present — McCormick tractors are manufactured by ARGO SpA in Italy, independent of CNH. ARGO also owns Landini, Laverda, and several other brands
Who Makes McCormick Tractors Now?
ARGO SpA — an Italian agricultural equipment group based in Fabbrico, Reggio Emilia, Italy. ARGO is entirely independent of CNH Industrial (which owns Case IH and New Holland) and AGCO (which owns Fendt, Massey Ferguson, and Valtra). McCormick sits alongside Landini within the ARGO group.
Are McCormick Tractors the Same as Case?
Not today — but the CX90-era machines share the same platform. Because the CX90 was produced during the 1999–2001 period when McCormick was still under CNH ownership, it shares the same basic frame, engine family, and many components with the Case CX90 produced at the same time. Today the two brands are entirely separate with different ownership, dealer networks, and current model ranges. For CX90-era parts sourcing, this shared platform heritage means Case CX90 parts sometimes cross-reference to McCormick CX90 parts — useful to know when sourcing.
Who Makes Engines for McCormick Tractors?
Engine sourcing for the CX90 varies by production year and destination market. Most CX90 units use either a Perkins 4-cylinder diesel or an ARGO Power 4-cylinder diesel. Perkins engines are manufactured by Perkins Engines (a Caterpillar company) — one of the most widely supported diesel engine families in the world with excellent parts availability. ARGO Power engines are in-house ARGO SpA designs. Both are proven, durable units with good long-term support.
Are McCormick and Landini Tractors the Same?
They share the same ARGO SpA parent company and manufacturing platforms, but are marketed as separate brands with distinct model ranges and independent dealer networks. Many McCormick and Landini models from the same generation share components — and this cross-compatibility is practically useful for CX90 owners. If McCormick parts are difficult to source in your area, Landini dealers may stock equivalent components. Confirming cross-reference compatibility before your next service is a smart move.
Are McCormick Tractors Good Quality?
Yes — with important context about where the quality strength and the risks actually lie.
The McCormick CX90’s quality case rests on three things:
- Platform pedigree — the CX90 was designed and initially produced under CNH oversight on the same platform as the Case CX90, a well-regarded machine in its own right
- Mechanical simplicity — no complex emissions systems, no electronic control modules on most units, straightforward synchro transmission. This means fewer electronic failure points and simpler, cheaper repairs than comparable machines that were produced with Tier 3 or Tier 4 emissions requirements
- Longevity evidence — well-maintained CX90 tractors regularly reach 5,000–8,000+ operating hours in active farm service. This is the most meaningful quality indicator available
How Reliable Are McCormick Tractors?
Owner-reported reliability for the CX90 is consistently positive in European markets where McCormick has the strongest dealer and support presence. In North American markets the feedback pattern is more mixed — but the most common complaint is parts sourcing difficulty, not mechanical failure. The machine itself is reliable; the support infrastructure in some markets is the variable.
Which Tractor Brand Is Considered Most Dependable?
In the 90 HP utility class, independent owner surveys and agricultural press consistently rank Kubota and John Deere as the most dependable brands — driven primarily by their comprehensive dealer and parts networks rather than fundamental machine superiority. McCormick is competitive on machine reliability within this class. The brand’s lower dependability ranking in North American surveys reflects parts support gaps more than mechanical quality.
What Tractor Brand Has the Least Problems?
Kubota (compact and utility class), John Deere (utility and large farm), and Fendt (premium class) are most consistently cited for fewest reported problems per operating hour. McCormick competes well on actual reliability in markets with good dealer coverage. The practical answer for a CX90 buyer: this is a well-made machine with a real parts sourcing consideration in some markets — factor in your dealer access before buying.
Common Problems with the McCormick CX90
| Problem | Details | When | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic seal leaks | Rear lift cylinder and remote connections most commonly cited. Minor seeps are normal wear on older machines; active leaks indicate broader internal seal wear and need addressing before they worsen | Higher-hour units — typically 3,000+ hours | ⚠️ Moderate — address early |
| Synchro transmission wear | Grinding or difficulty engaging gears under load. Most common on units above 4,000 hours without documented transmission service. Test all gears before purchase | High-hour machines | ⚠️ Moderate — inspect before buying |
| Front axle seal leaks (4WD) | MFWD axle seals weep on higher-hour units — oil accumulation around front axle joints is the indicator. Low-cost fix if caught early; expensive if it causes bearing wear | Moderate to high hours | 🟡 Minor — address early |
| Electrical connector corrosion | Intermittent electrical faults on older units — dashboard lights, PTO engagement, and auxiliary functions most commonly affected. Inspect wiring harness condition, particularly around cab and front axle | Age-related — older units | 🟡 Minor — preventable |
| Cab A/C compressor failure | Standard wear item on enclosed cab units. Test A/C fully — both heating and cooling — before purchase. Replacement compressors are available but require sourcing | Age and use-related | 🟡 Minor — standard wear item |
| Parts sourcing delays | Non-standard parts in thin-dealer markets can carry 2–4 week lead times. This is a support infrastructure issue, not a mechanical defect, but it has real operational impact | Ongoing — location-dependent | ⚠️ Moderate — confirm before buying |
Pre-purchase inspection checklist:
- Cold-start test — clean start, no smoke, stable idle
- All hydraulic cylinders and remotes — check for active leaks
- Test all gears under load — smooth engagement required
- PTO engagement at 540 and 1,000 RPM
- Front axle — check for oil weeping at MFWD joints
- Cab A/C and heat function
- Electrical — dashboard, lights, auxiliary functions
- Service records — documented history matters more than hours alone
Can You Get Parts for the McCormick CX90 — and Where?
| Market | Availability | Best Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | ✅ Good | Authorised ARGO/McCormick dealers — strong coverage |
| North America | ⚠️ Variable | Specialist McCormick dealers, online suppliers, Landini cross-reference |
| Middle East / Africa | ⚠️ Variable by country | ARGO export partners, online shipping from EU suppliers |
| Asia / Oceania | ⚠️ Limited in some markets | Online suppliers, Landini cross-reference, import from EU |
Where to Buy McCormick Tractor Parts Online
- EU specialist suppliers — the largest online McCormick parts inventory outside dealer networks. UK and Italian suppliers ship internationally
- TractorJoe.com — US-based, stocks some McCormick CX90 components
- Landini dealer network — for parts that cross-reference between Landini and McCormick. Contact your nearest Landini dealer and quote the McCormick part number for cross-reference check
- Case CX90 parts cross-reference — given the shared platform, some Case CX90 components fit the McCormick CX90. Verify part numbers before ordering
- eBay and specialist forums — for used and NOS (new old stock) parts on older CX90 units. Yesterdaystractors and TractorByNet forums have active McCormick communities
- Perkins engine parts — if your CX90 has a Perkins engine, engine components are available through the global Perkins parts network — one of the most accessible engine part ecosystems in the world
Before purchasing any McCormick CX90, confirm that common wear items — hydraulic seals, transmission filters, belts, electrical connectors — can be sourced within a reasonable lead time in your market. This is the most important due diligence step for a CX90 buyer outside of Europe.
McCormick CX90 Maintenance Schedule
| Interval | Service Items |
|---|---|
| Every 50 hours | Grease all fittings — loader arms, front axle, PTO shaft, steering joints. Check all fluid levels |
| Every 100 hours | Engine oil and filter change. Check air filter — clean or replace. Check battery and terminals |
| Every 250 hours | Fuel filter replacement. Check transmission fluid level and condition. Inspect hydraulic hoses for wear or weeping |
| Every 500 hours | Transmission and hydraulic fluid change. Coolant system check. Replace air filter if not already done. Inspect front axle seals |
| Every 1,000 hours | Full drivetrain inspection. Brake adjustment check. Hydraulic system pressure test. Cab filtration service if enclosed cab fitted |
| Annual | Full visual inspection of all hydraulic lines, electrical connections, and cab seals regardless of hours |
The CX90’s straightforward mechanical design means most routine maintenance is owner-serviceable with basic tools. The primary maintenance risk for this machine is deferred fluid changes — particularly transmission and hydraulic fluid — which are the leading cause of the synchro wear and hydraulic seal issues described in the common problems section above. Fluid changes on schedule are the single most cost-effective maintenance practice for a CX90 owner.
How the McCormick CX90 Performs in the Field
Tillage and Field Work
90 HP handles plowing, discing, and cultivation on farms up to 150–200 acres without straining. The synchro shuttle transmission gives smooth, predictable performance across different soil conditions. The machine’s weight (~7,000 lbs) provides adequate traction in most field conditions — ballasting the rear with wheel weights or fluid is worth considering for heavy tillage work on lighter soils.
Loader Work
The CX90 pairs well with compatible front loaders. The synchro shuttle’s forward/reverse lever makes loader cycles efficient — direction changes without stopping are comfortable once the operator is familiar with the machine. The ~5,000 lb rear lift capacity supports most loader configurations without straining the 3-point system. For daily loader use, the Power Shuttle option (available on some Case CX90 units of the same era) provides smoother engagement — worth seeking out if loader work is your primary use.
Livestock and Feed Operations
A practical choice for daily livestock work — silage handling, manure management, feed transport, and barn work. The enclosed cab option keeps operators comfortable in all-weather daily use. PTO-driven feed wagons and muck spreaders at both 540 and 1,000 RPM are fully supported.
Haying
90 HP is adequate for mowing, tedding, raking, and baling on mixed farms. The dual PTO speeds support most hay equipment configurations. On larger dedicated hay operations above 200 acres, 110–130 HP would provide more productive comfort — but for most mixed farm hay operations the CX90 is well-matched.
How to Find McCormick Dealers in the US
Finding McCormick-authorised dealer support in North America requires more effort than finding Kubota or John Deere support — the network is smaller and less consistently distributed:
- McCormick Tractors North America website — the official dealer locator. Search by state/zip for the nearest authorised dealer
- ARGO dealer network — some Landini dealers also handle McCormick; worth checking if the nearest McCormick dealer is distant
- Independent repair shops — the CX90’s simple mechanical design means most competent agricultural mechanics can service it without brand-specific tools. For general maintenance and common repairs, an independent shop with diesel engine experience is often adequate
- Online communities — TractorByNet and Yesterday’s Tractors have active McCormick communities with practical knowledge of sourcing and repair
If no McCormick authorised dealer is within reasonable distance, confirm that:
- An independent shop comfortable with Perkins or ARGO Power engines is available
- Common parts can be shipped from an online supplier within your acceptable lead time
- You or a mechanic can handle routine service independently
McCormick CX90 vs Alternatives — 90 HP Used Market
| Model | HP | Used Price Range | Key Difference vs CX90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| McCormick CX90 | 90 HP | $9,000–$18,000 | This machine — simple, proven, lower purchase price |
| Case CX90 | 90 HP | $10,000–$20,000 | Same platform — Case IH dealer parts advantage in North America |
| New Holland TL90 | 90 HP | $10,000–$22,000 | CNH platform — stronger dealer coverage than McCormick |
| Massey Ferguson 5711 | 110 HP | From $22,000 | More HP, newer — our MF 5711 available at $22,000 |
| Kubota M95S | 95 HP | $18,000–$32,000 | Strongest North American parts support — higher price |
| John Deere 5090E | 90 HP | $18,000–$32,000 | Best dealer network — premium price vs CX90 |
For the full head-to-head comparison between the McCormick CX90 and Case CX90 specifically, see our dedicated McCormick CX90 vs Case CX90 guide →
McCormick CX90 Price — What Does It Cost?
Used McCormick CX90 tractors trade on the open market for approximately $9,000–$18,000 depending on hours, condition, transmission specification, and whether a loader is fitted. For independent market pricing, MachineryTrader.com lists current used CX90 sales.
The unit at Farmers Equipment is priced at $17,500 — with worldwide shipping available, a loader-compatible specification, and an inspection before listing. This is at the competitive end of the used market for a machine in this condition.
👉 See the current McCormick CX90 listing — $17,500 →
Also browse: McCormick tractors for sale · Massey Ferguson tractors · John Deere tractors · Full tractor range →
Verdict — Is the McCormick CX90 Worth Buying?
Yes — for the right buyer. The McCormick CX90 is a well-made 90 HP utility tractor on a proven platform, with a simple mechanical design that keeps repair costs down and makes independent servicing practical. For buyers in Europe or with access to a good local McCormick or Landini dealer, it is an excellent value proposition in the 90 HP used market.
For buyers in North America or other thin-dealer markets — the machine quality is there, but parts sourcing requires more planning than it would with a Kubota or John Deere. Factor in your nearest competent independent mechanic and your tolerance for occasional 2–4 week parts lead times before deciding. If those are manageable, the CX90 delivers strong value at $17,500.
Frequently Asked Questions: McCormick CX90 Tractor
What horsepower is the McCormick CX90 tractor?
90 HP from a 4-cylinder diesel engine — Perkins or ARGO Power depending on production year and market. Suited to medium farm tillage, loader work, haying, and livestock operations on farms up to 200+ acres.
Who makes McCormick tractors now?
ARGO SpA — an Italian agricultural equipment group based in Fabbrico, Italy. Also owns Landini and Laverda. Entirely independent of CNH Industrial (Case IH, New Holland) and AGCO (Fendt, Massey Ferguson).
Are McCormick tractors the same as Case?
Not today — but the CX90-era machines share the same platform. The CX90 was produced during the period when McCormick was under CNH ownership, giving it many common components with the Case CX90. In 2001 McCormick was sold to ARGO SpA. Today they are separate brands with different ownership, dealer networks, and current model ranges.
Are McCormick tractors good quality?
Yes — the CX90 is a durable, well-built utility tractor on a proven platform. Well-maintained examples regularly reach 5,000–8,000+ operating hours. Main buyer risk in some markets is parts sourcing infrastructure, not machine quality itself.
What are common problems with the McCormick CX90?
Hydraulic seal leaks on higher-hour units, synchro transmission wear above 4,000 hours without service, front axle seal leaks on 4WD units, electrical connector corrosion on older machines, and parts sourcing delays in thin-dealer markets. Machine reliability is well-regarded — most complaints relate to support infrastructure, not mechanical failure.
Can you get parts for McCormick tractors?
Yes — availability varies by location. Strong in Europe through ARGO dealer network. North America requires specialist dealers or online suppliers. The shared platform with Landini means some parts cross-reference. If your CX90 has a Perkins engine, engine parts are available through the global Perkins network.
Where can I buy McCormick tractor parts online?
EU specialist suppliers (widest inventory), TractorJoe.com (US-based, some McCormick stock), Landini dealer network (for cross-reference parts), and eBay/forums for NOS parts. Also worth checking Case CX90 cross-references given the shared platform.
What is the McCormick CX90 price?
$17,500 at Farmers Equipment. Used CX90s trade on the open market for approximately $9,000–$18,000 depending on hours, condition, and specification. Our $17,500 price is at the competitive end for a machine in this condition with worldwide shipping available.