The Oliver 1800 Series A, produced between 1960 and 1962, was a notable row-crop tractor manufactured by Oliver in Charles City, Iowa, USA. This tractor model offered farmers reliability and versatility, making it a popular choice for various agricultural tasks during its time. Its well-designed mechanical features and robust engines contributed to its reputation as a dependable workhorse on farms across the country.
Oliver 1800 Series A
Model Year
1960-1962
Series
4-Digit Series
Type
Row-Crop Tractor
Production
Manufacturer
Oliver
Waukesha-Oliver 4.6L 6-cylinder Diesel Engine
Displacement
283 cubic inches (4.6 liters)
Bore/Stroke
3.875×4.00 inches
Air Cleaner
Oil bath
Compression Ratio
16:1
Rated RPM
2000
Starter Volts
12
Waukesha-Oliver 4.3L 6-cylinder Gasoline Engine
Displacement
265 cubic inches (4.3 liters)
Bore/Stroke
3.75×4.00 inches
Air Cleaner
Oil bath
Compression Ratio
8.5:1
Rated RPM
2000
Firing Order
1-5-3-6-2-4
Starter Volts
12
Power
Drawbar (Tested)
62.55 horsepower (46.6 kW)
PTO (Tested)
73.92 horsepower (55.1 kW)
Mechanical
Drive
Two-wheel drive
Steering
Power assist
Brakes
Disc brakes
Operator Station
Open
6-speed Gear Transmission
Gears
6 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch
Dry disc
12-speed Partial Power Shift Transmission (Hydra-Power)
Gears
12 forward and 4 reverse
Clutch
Dry disc
Note
Hydra-Power Drive adds a power shift between direct engine drive and a lower gear.
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Independent
Rear RPM
540/1000
Serial Numbers
Location
Serial plate on the instrument panel
1960
90-525
1961
111-025
1962
118-344
Final
124-395
Tires
Ag Front
7.50-15
Ag Rear
15-34
Ag Rear
18.5-38
Dimensions
Wheelbase
103 inches (261 cm)
Length
159.5 inches (405 cm)
Width
86.4 inches (219 cm)
Height (Steering Wheel)
80 inches (203 cm)
Operating Weight
8,585 lbs (3894 kg)
Ballasted Weight
14,345 lbs (6506 kg)
Ground Clearance
25.5 inches (64 cm)
Front Tread
9.25/14.5 inches (23/36 cm, tricycle)
Rear Tread
68 to 89.5 inches (172 to 227 cm)
Nebraska Tractor Test (Gasoline 6-speed 2WD – 1960)
PTO Performance
73.92 hp, Fuel Use 5.6 gal/hour
Drawbar Performance
Max Power – 61.66 hp, Fuel Use – 5.3 gal/hour, Max Pull – 10,619 lbs
Nebraska Tractor Test (Diesel 6-speed 2WD – 1960)
PTO Performance
70.2 hp, Fuel Use 4.9 gal/hour
Drawbar Performance
Max Power – 62.55 hp, Fuel Use – 4.8 gal/hour, Max Pull – 11,040 lbs
Oliver 1800 Series A Overview
The Oliver 1800 Series A, a historical tractor model, represents a fascinating piece of agricultural history. Manufactured between 1960 and 1962 in Charles City, Iowa, USA, this row-crop tractor was emblematic of its era. In today’s context, collectors and enthusiasts highly value it as a piece of farming heritage.
During its production years, the Oliver 1800 Series A featured two engine options: a Waukesha-Oliver 4.6L 6-cylinder diesel engine and a 4.3L 6-cylinder gasoline engine. These engines provided reliable power for various farming tasks. The tractor offered a choice of transmissions, including a 6-speed gear transmission and a 12-speed partial power shift Hydra-Power transmission, which was a technological advancement at the time, allowing for more efficient and smoother gear changes.
One notable aspect of the Oliver 1800 Series A was its power take-off (PTO) capability, with an independent rear PTO and the flexibility to operate at different RPMs. The tractor also featured power-assisted steering, enhancing maneuverability, and disc brakes for reliable stopping power. The open operator station provided a basic but functional working environment.
From a historical perspective, this tractor reflects the state of agricultural technology in the early 1960s, with its focus on improving efficiency and productivity in farming operations. Collectors today are drawn to the Oliver 1800 Series A not only for its historical significance but also for its enduring quality and craftsmanship. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of its time and serves as a cherished piece of machinery history in the world of agriculture.
