The Oliver 550 was a versatile utility tractor produced in Charles City, Iowa, USA. It had a significant production run and was available with both gasoline and diesel engine options. The tractor featured a two-wheel drive configuration and offered power-assisted steering for ease of operation. With its mechanical contracting band brakes and an open operator station, the Oliver 550 was a reliable workhorse on farms during its time. It had a capacity of 13 gallons for fuel and 2.5 gallons for its hydraulic system. The tractor was known for its drawbar and PTO power, making it suitable for various agricultural tasks. It remains a piece of agricultural history appreciated by collectors today.
Oliver 550 Specs
Manufacturer
Oliver
Type
Utility tractor
Production Location
Charles City, Iowa, USA
Total Built
20,368 (Oliver) and 3,915 (Cockshutt)
Original Price (in 1975)
$4,400
First-Year Engine
Equipped with the same 2.4L engine as the Super 55
Power
Drawbar Power (Claimed)
35.3 hp (26.3 kW)
PTO Power (Claimed)
41.39 hp (30.9 kW)
Drawbar Power (Tested)
35.36 hp (26.4 kW)
PTO Power (Tested)
41.39 hp (30.9 kW)
Engine Details (Gasoline)
Displacement
155 cubic inches (2.5 L)
Bore/Stroke
3.62×3.75 inches (92 x 95 mm)
Air Cleaner
Oil bath
Compression Ratio
7.75:1
Rated RPM
2000
Starter Voltage
12 volts
Oil Capacity
4 quarts (3.8 L)
Engine Details (Diesel)
Displacement
155 cubic inches (2.5 L)
Bore/Stroke
3.625×3.75 inches (92 x 95 mm)
Air Cleaner
Oil bath
Compression Ratio
16:1
Rated RPM
2000
Starter Voltage
12 volts
Transmission
Type
Gear
Gears
6 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch
Dry disc
Oil Capacity
20 quarts (18.9 L)
Mechanical Details
Drive Configuration
Two-wheel drive (2WD)
Steering
Power assist
Brakes
Mechanical contracting band
Operator Station
Open
Capacity
Fuel Tank Capacity
13 gallons (49.2 L)
Hydraulic System Capacity
2.5 gallons (9.5 L)
Hydraulics
Type
Open center
Hydraulic Capacity
2.5 gallons (9.5 L)
Pump Flow
5.25 gallons per minute (19.9 liters per minute)
Tractor Hitch
Rear Type
I
Rear PTO
Independent
Rear RPM
540/1000
Ground
Positive
Ground: Positive
Batteries
1 (gasoline)
Battery Voltage
12 volts
Electrical (Diesel)
Ground
Positive
Batteries
2 (diesel)
Battery Voltage
6 volts (diesel) and 12 volts (gasoline)
Tires
Front Tires
6.00-16
Rear Tires
12-26
Dimensions
Wheelbase
72.9 inches (185 cm)
Length
119.9 inches (304 cm)
Height (Steering Wheel)
58 inches (147 cm)
Height (Hood)
50.1 inches (127 cm)
Front Tread Width
Adjustable from 48 to 76 inches (121 to 193 cm)
Rear Tread Width
Adjustable from 48 to 76 inches (121 to 193 cm)
Weight
Gas Shipping Weight
3,070 lbs (1392 kg)
Diesel Shipping Weight
3,170 lbs (1437 kg)
Operating Weight
3,730 lbs (1691 kg)
Nebraska Tractor Tests
Gasoline Test
(NTTL 697) and Diesel Test (NTTL 698) conducted in 1959, including power and fuel use data for PTO and drawbar performance.
Oliver 550 Overview
The Oliver 550, a historical tractor model, represents a significant piece of agricultural history. Manufactured in the mid-20th century in Charles City, Iowa, USA, this versatile utility tractor was a staple on farms during its production years. It boasted two engine options, a 2.5L 4-cylinder gasoline engine and a 2.5L 4-cylinder diesel engine, reflecting the technology available at the time. These engines, while not exceptionally powerful by today’s standards, were reliable workhorses of their era.
The Oliver 550 featured a two-wheel drive configuration with power-assisted steering, a feature that improved maneuverability and made it easier for farmers to operate. Its mechanical contracting band brakes provided effective stopping power for the time, and the open operator station allowed the driver to have a clear view of the field.
With its drawbar and PTO power, the Oliver 550 could handle a variety of tasks on the farm, from plowing and planting to powering machinery. It had a capacity of 13 gallons for fuel and 2.5 gallons for its hydraulic system, suitable for its intended applications.
Today, the Oliver 550 holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts of vintage tractors. Its historical significance, reliable performance, and the nostalgia it evokes make it a sought-after collector’s model. Restored Oliver 550 tractors are often showcased at agricultural shows and events, allowing people to appreciate the technological advancements and the role this tractor played in shaping agriculture during its time.
