The Oliver 2255 was a robust and versatile row-crop tractor manufactured by Oliver in the early to mid-1970s. Built in Charles City, Iowa, USA, this tractor was known for its power and efficiency in agricultural operations. With its two- or four-wheel drive options, power steering, and hydraulic disc brakes, it offered operators ease of use and control. The tractor came equipped with a Caterpillar diesel engine, which provided ample power for various tasks on the farm. It featured options such as an open operator station, ROPS, and even a cab with heating and air conditioning, ensuring operator comfort during long working hours. The Oliver 2255 remains a notable model from its era, appreciated for its reliability and performance in the field.
| Oliver 2255 Specs |
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| Production Years | 1972 – 1976 |
| Series | 55 Series |
| Type | Row-Crop tractor |
| Production |
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| Manufacturer | Oliver |
| Total Built | 2,160 |
| Original Price (1976) | $18,500 |
| Liquid-cooled |
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| Displacement | 573 ci (9.4 L) for the Caterpillar 3150 and 636 ci (10.4 L) for the Caterpillar 3208 |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.50×4.50 inches (114 x 114 mm) for the Caterpillar 3150 and 4.50×5.00 inches (114 x 127 mm) for the Caterpillar 3208 |
| Air Cleaner | Dry element |
| Compression Ratio | 17:1 for the Caterpillar 3150 and 16.5:1 for the Caterpillar 3208 |
| Rated RPM | 2600 for the Caterpillar 3150 and 2800 for the Caterpillar 3208 |
| Starter Volts | 12 |
| Oil Capacity | 13 qts (12.3 L) |
| Coolant Capacity | 40 qts (37.9 L) |
| 6-speed Transmission with 6 forward and 2 reverse gears |
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| Clutch | 14-inch dry disc |
| Power |
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| Drawbar (Tested) | 115.35 hp (86.0 kW) |
| PTO (Tested) | 146.72 hp (109.4 kW) |
| Hydraulics |
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| Type | Closed center |
| Valves | 1 to 4 |
| Pump Flow | 20 gpm (75.7 lpm) |
| Tractor Hitch |
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| Rear Type | II/III |
| Control | Draft control |
| Rear Lift Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2721 kg) |
| Power Take-off (PTO) |
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| Rear PTO | Independent |
| Rear RPM | 1000 and 540/1000 (optional) |
| Tires |
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| 2WD Ag Front | 11.00-16, 14.00Lx16.1 |
| 4WD Ag Front | 14.9-26, 16.9-26 |
| Ag Rear | 18.4-38, 23.1-34, 20.8-38 |
| Dimensions |
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| 2WD Wheelbase | 108.3 inches (275 cm) |
| 4WD Wheelbase | 83.5 inches (212 cm) |
| Length | 166 inches (421 cm) for 2WD and 154 inches (391 cm) for 4WD |
| Width | 81.5 inches (207 cm) |
| Weight | 16,500 lbs (7484 kg) |
| Front Axle Clearance | 24.5 inches (62 cm) for 2WD and 15.5 inches (39 cm) for 4WD |
| Rear Axle Clearance | 27.3 inches (69 cm) for both 2WD and 4WD |
| Front Tread | 60 to 80 inches (152 to 203 cm) for 2WD and 66 to 70.75 inches (167 to 179 cm) for 4WD |
| Rear Tread | 61 to 91 inches (154 to 231 cm) |
| Height (Steering Wheel) | 85.4 inches (216 cm) |
| Exhaust Height | 105.7 inches (268 cm) for 2WD and 107 inches (271 cm) for 4WD |
| Serial Numbers |
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| 1972 | 235-598 |
| 1973 | 237-210 |
| 1974 | 244-825 |
| 1975 | 258-472 |
| 1976 | 266-683 |
| Nebraska Tractor Test (1973 – Diesel 18-speed 2WD) |
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| PTO Performance | Power at rated engine speed |
| PTO Performance | Power at rated PTO speed |
| Drawbar Performance | Max power |
The Oliver 2255 overview
The Oliver 2255, originating from the early 1970s, holds a special place in the history of agricultural machinery. In today’s context, it stands as a classic and sought-after collector’s model, revered for its robust construction and advanced technology of its time.
Specifications:
Powerhouse Engines: The Oliver 2255 was available with two Caterpillar diesel engines, the Caterpillar 3150 and later the 3208, known for their reliability and impressive performance. These engines were renowned for their large displacements, offering plenty of power for various farming tasks.
Innovative Transmission: It featured an 18-speed partial power shift transmission, a technological marvel in its era. This transmission allowed operators to smoothly shift gears on the go, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
Two or Four-Wheel Drive: The flexibility of choosing between two or four-wheel drive made the Oliver 2255 adaptable to different farming conditions, ensuring optimal traction and performance.
Operator Comfort: With options like power steering and an available cab with heating and air conditioning, the Oliver 2255 prioritized operator comfort, a feature that was progressive for its time.
Hydraulic Advancements: Its closed-center hydraulics with multiple valves and a substantial pump flow allowed for versatile implement use, showcasing advancements in hydraulic technology.
Sturdy Build: The tractor’s construction was robust and designed to withstand the rigors of farming, a testament to the durability and quality associated with Oliver tractors.
As a historical model, the Oliver 2255 reflects the pinnacle of tractor technology during the 1970s. It was known for its power, versatility, and innovative features, making it a popular choice among farmers of that era. Today, collectors cherish this tractor for its historical significance, as it represents a transitional period in agricultural machinery development. Its advanced transmission, powerful engine options, and operator-focused design make it a captivating piece of farming history, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its contribution to the evolution of tractor technology.
