The Allis-Chalmers WD45 is a classic row-crop tractor produced by Allis-Chalmers from 1953 to 1957. This iconic tractor is known for its enduring popularity and contribution to the agricultural industry. It was manufactured in West Allis, Wisconsin, USA, and became a vital tool on many farms during its production years.
The WD45 was celebrated for being one of the first Allis-Chalmers tractors to offer power steering, making it easier for farmers to navigate their fields and handle various tasks. It was available with multiple engine options, including gasoline, tractor fuel, LP gas, and diesel, giving farmers the flexibility to choose the power source that best suited their needs.
Throughout its production run, the WD45 earned a reputation for its reliability, versatility, and efficiency. It was used for a wide range of agricultural applications, from plowing fields to operating belt-driven machinery. Its combination of power and maneuverability made it a valuable asset on farms of all sizes.
The tractor featured a mechanical steering system, although power steering was available as an optional feature. It also had mechanical band brakes for stopping and offered an open operator station, although an optional Allis-Chalmers Half Cab with a windshield and vinyl sides could be installed.
The WD45’s contributions to farming were significant, and it remains a symbol of the era’s agricultural progress and innovation. This classic tractor holds a special place in the history of American agriculture and is cherished by collectors and enthusiasts to this day.
Allis Chalmers WD45 Specs
Years Produced
1953 – 1957
Type
Row-Crop Tractor
Manufacturer
Allis Chalmers
Production Location
West Allis, Wisconsin, USA
Total Units Built
90,382 (Total), 83,536 (Gasoline), 6,509 (Diesel)
Original Price (1956)
$2,400
Engines Variants
Allis-Chalmers
3.7L 4-cyl Gasoline
Allis-Chalmers
3.7L 4-cyl Tractor Fuel
Allis-Chalmers
3.7L 4-cyl LP Gas
Allis-Chalmers
3.8L 6-cyl Diesel (Available after October 1954)
Engine Specifications (Gasoline)
Displacement
226 ci (3.7 L)
Bore/Stroke
4.00×4.50 inches (102 x 114 mm)
Compression Ratio
6.45:1
Rated RPM
1400
Torque
288 lb-ft (390.5 Nm) at 867 RPM
Starter Volts
6
Engine Specifications – (Tractor Fuel)
Compression Ratio
4.75:1
Rated RPM
1400
Engine Specifications – (LP Gas)
Compression Ratio
7.2:1
Torque
276 lb-ft (374.3 Nm) at 1250 RPM
Engine Specifications – (Diesel)
Displacement
230 ci (3.8 L)
Bore/Stroke
3.4375×4.125 inches (87 x 105 mm)
Air Cleaner
Oil Bath
Compression Ratio
15.5:1
Rated RPM
1625
Torque
259 lb-ft (351.2 Nm) at 1169 RPM
Starter Volts
12
Coolant Capacity
17 qts (16.1 L)
Tires
Front
5.50-16
Rear
12-28 or 13-28
Dimensions
Wheelbase
88 inches (223 cm)
Length
128 inches (325 cm)
Height (Steering Wheel)
68 inches (172 cm)
Height (Exhaust)
81.5 inches (207 cm)
Weight (Gasoline)
3995 lbs (1812 kg)
Weight (Diesel)
4285 lbs (1943 kg)
Ground Clearance
29 inches (73 cm)
Rear Tread
55.6 to 90.1 inches (141 to 228 cm)
Power
Plows
4
Drawbar (Tested)
39.50 hp (29.5 kW)
Belt (Tested)
44.13 hp (32.9 kW)
Mechanical
Drive
Two-Wheel Drive
Steering
Mechanical (Power Steering Optional)
Brakes
Mechanical Band Brakes
Operator Station
Open (Optional Allis-Chalmers Half Cab available with windshield and vinyl sides)
Capacity
Fuel Tank
15 gallons (56.8 L)
Hydraulic System
1.5 gallons (5.7 L)
Hydraulics
Capacity
1.5 gallons (5.7 L)
Tractor Hitch
Type
Snap-Coupler
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Live
Clutch
254mm Dry Disc
Rear RPM
540 (1.375)
Engine RPM
548@1400
Serial Numbers (Location – Left Brake Housing)
1953
146607
1954
160386
1955
190993
1956
217992
1957
230295
Belt Pulley
Diameter
9 inches (22 cm)
Width
6.5 inches (16 cm)
RPM
1458
Electrical
Ground
Positive
Gas Batteries
1
Diesel Batteries
2
Battery Volts
6
Battery AH
115
The Allis-Chalmers WD45 is a revered collector’s model with profound historical value in the world of tractors. Produced from 1953 to 1957, it stands as an enduring icon of the mid-20th-century agricultural era. This tractor holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts due to several key attributes.
Firstly, the WD45 was a pioneering tractor, being among the first from Allis-Chalmers to offer power steering. This innovation revolutionized the farming experience by providing operators with enhanced control and ease of use. This historical significance makes it a sought-after piece of machinery history.
Allis-Chalmers WD-45 Antique Tractor TIN SIGN
Moreover, the WD45 was available with various engine options, including gasoline, tractor fuel, LP gas, and diesel. This versatility allowed it to adapt to different farming needs and regions, showcasing the adaptability of agricultural equipment during its time.
Its robust construction and reliability made it a dependable workhorse on countless farms, contributing to the agricultural prosperity of its era. Farmers relied on it for plowing fields, operating belt-driven machinery, and a wide range of other tasks.
As a collector’s model, the WD45 is cherished for its classic design, with distinctive features like its mechanical steering system and open operator station. Enthusiasts often seek out well-preserved or restored versions of this tractor to add to their collections.
In essence, the Allis-Chalmers WD45 is a symbol of a pivotal period in agricultural history when technology was advancing, and farming practices were evolving. Its historical value as a collector’s item reflects the enduring legacy of this iconic tractor in the world of agriculture and machinery. Collectors and admirers continue to preserve and celebrate the WD45 as a tribute to its historical importance and timeless appeal.
Allis-Chalmers WD-45 Antique Tractor TIN SIGN