The Oliver 88 Row-Crop tractor, produced between 1947 and 1954, was a staple on farms during its time. Known for its durability and reliability, it was a common sight in agricultural fields, performing a wide range of tasks. This workhorse of the mid-20th century played a crucial role in helping farmers increase their productivity and meet the demands of post-war agriculture. Today, it holds a special place in the history of farming machinery and is often cherished by collectors for its historical significance and enduring appeal.
Oliver 88 Row-Crop
Years Produced
1947 – 1954
Type
Row-Crop tractor
Manufacturer
Oliver
Original Price (1954)
$3,000
Variants
88
Row-Crop
88
Standard (Fixed-tread)
Power
Plows
3
Drawbar (Tested)
38.47 hp (28.7 kW)
Belt (Tested)
43.53 hp (32.5 kW)
Mechanical
Drive
Two-wheel drive
Steering
Manual
Operator Station
Open
6-cylinder, liquid-cooled vertical I-head
Displacement
231 ci (3.8 L)
Bore/Stroke
3.50×4.00 inches (89 x 102 mm)
Air Cleaner
Oil bath
Compression
6.75:1
Rated RPM
1600
Firing Order
1-5-3-6-2-4
Coolant Capacity
18 qts (17.0 L)
Displacement
230.9 ci (3.8 L)
Bore/Stroke
3.50×4.00 inches (89 x 102 mm)
Air Cleaner
Oil bath
Compression
15.0:1
Rated RPM
1600
Firing Order
1-5-3-6-2-4
Starter Volts
12
Transmission
Type
Gear
Gears
6 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch
Dry disc
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Independent
Rear RPM
540
Dimensions & Tires
Wheelbase
93.75 inches (238 cm)
Length
141.875 inches (360 cm)
Width
68 inches (172 cm)
Height
69 inches (175 cm)
Operating Weight
5000 lbs (2268 kg)
Ballasted Weight
8484 lbs (3848 kg)
Front Tread
8.5/12.1 inches (21/30 cm)
Rear Tread
47 to 91 inches (119 to 231 cm)
Tractor Tests
NTTL 388
Gasoline 6-speed 2WD
NTTL 450
Diesel 6-speed 2WD
Nebraska Tractor Test 388 (Gasoline)
Belt Power (Max)
41.99 hp (31.3 kW)
Belt Fuel Use (Max)
3.7 gal/hour (14.0 l/hour)
Drawbar Performance (Max Power)
36.97 hp (27.6 kW)
Max Pull
5,173 lbs (2346 kg)
Nebraska Tractor Test 450 (Diesel)
Belt Power (Max)
43.53 hp (32.5 kW)
Belt Fuel Use (Max)
2.9 gal/hour (11.0 l/hour)
Drawbar Performance (Max Power)
38.47 hp (28.7 kW)
Max Pull
5,869 lbs (2662 kg)
Oliver 88 Row-Crop Overview
The Oliver 88 Row-Crop tractor, which was originally produced between 1947 and 1954, holds a unique place in the history of agricultural machinery. In today’s context, it is considered a vintage or historical model, and collectors often seek it out for its nostalgic value and historical significance.
During its production years, the Oliver 88 was at the forefront of tractor technology for its time. It was known for its reliability and versatility on the farm. The availability of both gasoline and diesel engine options reflected the transition in the industry from gasoline-powered to diesel-powered tractors. This versatility allowed farmers to choose the engine type that best suited their needs.
With a 6-cylinder engine and a range of gears in its transmission, the Oliver 88 offered ample power and flexibility for various agricultural tasks, including plowing and pulling. Its manual steering and open operator station were standard features of the era, providing the operator with a direct connection to the machine and the land.
Today, collectors are drawn to the Oliver 88 Row-Crop for its historical charm and the opportunity to preserve a piece of agricultural history. Restored models can be found at tractor shows and in private collections, where they serve as a reminder of a bygone era in farming technology. While it may not match the capabilities of modern tractors, the Oliver 88’s enduring appeal lies in its role as a symbol of the agricultural heritage and the innovations that shaped the industry.
