The Oliver 1955, part of the 55 Series, was a versatile and powerful row-crop tractor designed for a variety of agricultural tasks. With its turbocharged diesel engine and advanced transmission options, it represented a significant technological advancement during its production years. Its robust construction, power capabilities, and adaptability made it a popular choice for farmers in the 1970s, and it remains a collector’s item today due to its historical significance in the world of agriculture.
| Oliver 1955 Specs |
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| Years of Production | 1970 – 1974 |
| Series | 55 Series |
| Type | Row-Crop tractor |
| Production |
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| Manufacturer | Oliver (a part of White) |
| Type | Row-Crop tractor |
| Original Price (1974) | $14,250 |
| Oliver 1955 Power |
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| PTO (claimed) | 108 hp / 80.5 kW |
| Drawbar (tested) | 90.32 hp / 67.4 kW |
| PTO (tested) | 108.16 hp / 80.7 kW |
| Engine Specs |
|---|
| Engine | Oliver-Waukesha |
| Type | Turbocharged diesel |
| Type | 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 310 cubic inches (5.1 L) |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.875×4.375 inches (98 x 111 mm) |
| Air Cleaner | Dry |
| Rated RPM | 2400 |
| Starter Volts | 12 |
| Coolant Capacity | 20 quarts (18.9 L) |
| Transmissions variants |
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| var | 6-speed gear |
| var | 18-speed partial power shift |
| Transmission |
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| Type | Gear |
| Gears | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | 330mm cerametallic disc |
| Transmission |
|---|
| Transmission | Hydraul-Shift |
| Type | Partial power shift |
| Gears | 18 forward and 6 reverse |
| Clutch | 330mm cerametallic disc |
| Note | The Hydraul-Shift offers power shift between overdrive, underdrive, and direct-drive for each gear. |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Chassis | 4×2 2WD and 4×4 MFWD 4WD |
| Steering | Power |
| Brakes | Differential hydraulic dry disc |
| Cab | Open operator station with optional two-post ROPS and cab. |
| Hydraulics |
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| Type | Closed center |
| Pump Flow | 20 gpm (75.7 lpm) |
| Tractor Hitch |
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| Rear Type | II/III |
| Rear Lift | 6000 lbs (2721 kg) |
| Power Take-off (PTO) |
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| Rear PTO | Independent |
| Rear RPM | 1000 |
| 1955 Serial Numbers |
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| 1970 | 222-304 |
| 1971 | 226-858 |
| 1972 | 232-958 |
| 1973 | 239-032 |
| 1974 | 247-871 |
| Final | 253-050 |
| Electrical |
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| Ground | Negative |
| Battery Volts | 12 |
| Oliver 1955 Tires |
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| Ag Front | 11L-15 |
| Ag Rear | 20.8-38 |
| Dimensions |
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| 2WD Wheelbase | 103 inches (261 cm) |
| 4WD Wheelbase | 86.25 inches (219 cm) |
| 2WD Length | 159.5 inches (405 cm) |
| 4WD Length | 152.375 inches (387 cm) |
| Width | 80.625 inches (204 cm) |
| Height (steering wheel) | 85.5 inches (217 cm) |
| Operating Weight | 11,250 lbs (5103 kg) |
| Ballasted Weight | 16,220 lbs (7357 kg) |
| 2WD Ground Clearance | 25.5 inches (64 cm) |
| 4WD Ground Clearance | 13.5 inches (34 cm) |
| 2WD Front Tread | 61.5 to 87.5 inches (156 to 222 cm) |
| 4WD Front Tread | 60/70.75/80 inches (152/179/203 cm) |
| Rear Tread | 57 to 119.5 inches (144 to 303 cm) |
| Nebraska Tractor Test 1055 |
|---|
| Engine | Diesel 18-speed 2WD |
| PTO Performance | Power at Rated Engine Speed 108.16 hp (80.7 kW) |
| Fuel Use | 6.9 gal/hour (26.1 l/hour) |
| Drawbar Performance | Max Power 90.32 hp (67.4 kW) |
| Fuel Use | 7.0 gal/hour (26.5 l/hour) |
| Max Pull | 12,639 lbs (5733 kg) |
| Note | Gear 2-under used for pull test. |
Historical Model in Today’s Context:
The Oliver 1955, produced from 1970 to 1974, is a historical tractor that offers a fascinating look into the past while providing insights into the technology of its time. In today’s modern world of agriculture, this classic tractor stands as a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of its era. While it may not match the cutting-edge features of contemporary tractors, it was a powerful workhorse during its heyday. Today, enthusiasts and collectors appreciate the nostalgia and historical significance of the Oliver 1955. It serves as a reminder of a time when farming required sturdy and dependable machinery, and its enduring charm has not faded with the years.
Collectors’ Model:
For tractor enthusiasts and collectors, the Oliver 1955 is a prized possession. Its historical importance and role in shaping the agricultural landscape of the 1970s make it a sought-after collector’s item. Restoring and maintaining an Oliver 1955 is a labor of love, and those who own one take great pride in preserving this piece of farming history. Its turbocharged diesel engine, advanced transmission, and hydraulic features were cutting-edge during its production years, and collectors appreciate these aspects as a testament to the technological advancements of the time.
Overview of Specifications and Aspects:
The Oliver 1955 was equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine boasting 108 horsepower, a significant power output for its era. Its 6-speed gear transmission and optional 18-speed partial power shift offered versatility and efficiency in various farming tasks. The tractor’s power take-off (PTO) performance was impressive, making it suitable for a wide range of implements. Hydraulic features and the ability to adjust front and rear tread widths showcased the tractor’s adaptability to different farming conditions.
With its 2WD and 4WD options, the Oliver 1955 catered to the needs of farmers, and its power steering and differential hydraulic dry disc brakes enhanced maneuverability and safety. The inclusion of an open operator station with optional safety features such as a two-post ROPS and cab highlighted the tractor’s focus on operator comfort and safety.
The Oliver 1955’s dimensions, ground clearance, and adjustable front and rear tread widths made it suitable for various farm applications. Its performance, as evidenced by Nebraska Tractor Test results, underscored its capabilities in terms of power, fuel efficiency, and pulling strength.
In conclusion, the Oliver 1955 is a historical model that represents an era when tractors were evolving rapidly in terms of power and technology. Today, it remains a cherished collector’s item, appreciated for its role in advancing farming practices and its enduring appeal as a piece of agricultural history.
