The Oliver 1655 was a robust and versatile tractor produced by Oliver in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Known for its power and reliability, it was a popular choice among farmers during its time. With options for both diesel and gasoline engines, as well as different transmission types, it could handle a wide range of agricultural tasks. The tractor featured power steering for ease of operation and offered an optional cab with a heater for operator comfort. Its design and capabilities made it a valuable asset on the farm, serving as a workhorse for various tasks. Today, the Oliver 1655 is a collector’s item and a testament to the durability and engineering of vintage agricultural machinery.
Oliver 1655 Specs
Years in Production
1969 – 1975
Series
55 Series
Type
Row-Crop tractor
Production
Manufacturer
Oliver (a part of White)
Factory
Charles City, Iowa, USA
Original Price (in 1975)
$10,000
Transmission
Hydraul-Shift with 18 forward and 6 reverse gears
Power
PTO (claimed)
70 hp (52.2 kW)
Drawbar (tested)
60.07 hp (44.8 kW)
PTO (tested)
70.57 hp (52.6 kW)
Waukesha-Oliver 4.6L 6-cyl diesel
Displacement
283 ci (4.6 L)
Compression
16.5:1
Rated RPM
2200
Displacement
265 ci (4.3 L)
Compression
8.5:1
Rated RPM
2200
Transmissions
Hydraul-Shift Transmission
(Partial Power Shift) with 18 forward and 6 reverse gears
Helical Gear Transmission
with 6 forward and 2 reverse gears
Mechanical
Drive
Two- or four-wheel drive
Steering
Power steering
Brakes
Disc brakes
Station
Open operator station (optional cab with heater available)
Capacity
Fuel
27.5 gallons (104.1 liters)
Hydraulic system
14 gallons (53.0 liters)
Hydraulics
Type
Open center
Capacity
14 gallons (53.0 liters)
Valves
2 to 4
Tractor Hitch
Rear Type
II/I
Control
Lower-link draft control
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Independent
Rear RPM
540, 1000, 540/1000
Tires
Ag Front
Various sizes, including 7.50-16, 6.00-16, 6.50-16, 7.50-15, 7.50-18, and 11.00L-15
Ag Rear
Various sizes, including 18.4-34, 12.4-38, 13.6-38, 14.9-38, 15.5-38, and 16.9-38
Dimensions
2WD Wheelbase
99.25 inches (252 cm)
4WD Wheelbase
82.125 inches (208 cm)
2WD Length
154.5 inches (392 cm)
4WD Length
145.5 inches (369 cm)
Width
81.5 inches (207 cm)
Front Tread
2WD – 61.5 to 87.5 inches (156 to 222 cm), 4WD – 60/70.75 inches (152/179 cm)
The Oliver 1655, a historical model from the late 1960s and early 1970s, stands as a testament to the agricultural technology of its era. In today’s context, it holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and vintage tractor enthusiasts.
Back in its prime, the Oliver 1655 was a workhorse on the farm, offering power and versatility to farmers. With engine options that included a robust 4.6L 6-cylinder diesel and a 4.3L 6-cylinder gasoline engine, it delivered the kind of horsepower needed to handle a variety of tasks. The availability of an innovative Hydraul-Shift transmission allowed for on-the-go shifting between overdrive, direct drive, and underdrive for each gear, which was a notable technological advancement of its time.
The tractor featured power steering for easier maneuverability and mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power. It was available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations to suit different farming needs.
One of the standout aspects of the Oliver 1655 was its spacious and comfortable operator station, which could be equipped with an optional cab and heater—a luxury in the era when many tractors lacked such amenities.
The Oliver 1655’s design and capabilities made it a popular choice among farmers during its production years. Today, it has found a new lease on life as a collector’s model. Enthusiasts appreciate its historical significance and the engineering that went into its construction. Restored Oliver 1655 tractors are cherished for their vintage appeal and are often showcased at agricultural exhibitions and events, serving as a reminder of a bygone era in farming technology.
