The Oliver 88 Standard is a classic tractor that was manufactured in Charles City, Iowa, USA, from 1947 to 1954. It is known for its standard-tread design and was restyled in 1948 as part of the Fleetline series. This tractor comes in two variants, the row-crop 88 and the fixed-tread 88 Standard. With its distinctive appearance and mechanical features, the Oliver 88 Standard has a special place in agricultural history and is appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts for its unique design and functionality.
Oliver 88 Standard Specs
Type
Standard-tread tractor
Factory
Charles City, Iowa, USA
Note
The Oliver 88 was restyled in 1948 to the Fleetline series (S/N 820486).
Variants
88
Row-crop
88 Standard
Fixed-tread
Engine
Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cylinder
gasoline
Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cylinder
diesel
Engine Details (Gasoline)
Displacement
231 cubic inches (3.8 liters)
Bore/Stroke
3.50×4.00 inches (89×102 mm)
Air cleaner
Oil bath
Compression Ratio
6.75:1
Rated RPM
1600
Firing Order
1-5-3-6-2-4
Coolant Capacity
18 quarts (17.0 liters)
Engine Details (Diesel)
Displacement
231 cubic inches (3.8 liters)
Bore/Stroke
3.50×4.00 inches (89×102 mm)
Air cleaner
Oil bath
Compression Ratio
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
Mechanical
Chassis
4×2 2WD
Steering
Manual
Brakes
Mechanical contracting band
Cab
Open operator station
Power Take-off (PTO)
Rear PTO
Independent
Rear RPM
540
Serial Numbers
1947
820001
1948
820136
1948
820486
1949
821086
1950
824241
1951
825811
1952
826917
1953
3501813
1954
4500080
1947 (Industrial)
920001
1948 (Industrial)
920016
1949 (Industrial)
920366
1950 (Industrial)
920506
1951 (Industrial)
920721
1952 (Industrial)
920956
1953 (Industrial)
3502979
1954 (Industrial)
4500133
Belt Pulley
Diameter
11.875 inches (30 cm)
Width
7.25 inches (18 cm)
RPM
992
Speed
3,080 ft/min (938.78 meters/min)
Tires
Ag Front
6×16
Ag Rear
13-26
Dimensions
Wheelbase
79.25 inches (201 cm)
Length
141.9 inches (360 cm)
Height
68.5 inches (173 cm)
Operating Weight
4,700 lbs (2131 kg)
Ballasted Weight
7,804 lbs (3539 kg)
Front Tread
48.75 to 54.75 inches (123 to 139 cm)
Rear Tread
54 to 62 inches (137 to 157 cm)
Nebraska Tractor Test 391 (Gasoline 6-speed 2WD)
Belt Power (Max)
43.15 hp (32.2 kW)
Belt Fuel Use (Max)
3.8 gal/hour (14.4 l/hour)
Drawbar Performance Max Power
37.27 hp (27.8 kW)
Max Pull
5,270 lbs (2390 kg)
Oliver 88 Standard Overview
The Oliver 88 Standard, a historical agricultural icon, continues to hold a significant place in today’s world as a collector’s model and a symbol of vintage tractor technology. Manufactured from 1947 to 1954 in Charles City, Iowa, this standard-tread tractor was part of the Fleetline series, which featured a distinctive design. It’s available in two variants: the row-crop 88 and the fixed-tread 88 Standard.
In its time, the Oliver 88 Standard represented cutting-edge tractor technology. With its Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cylinder engine, it provided reliable power for various agricultural tasks. The tractor’s mechanical features, such as manual steering, mechanical contracting band brakes, and dry disc clutch, were state-of-the-art for its era. It also offered an independent rear Power Take-off (PTO) with a speed of 540 RPM, making it versatile for different farm operations.
The tractor’s design, with a distinctive front grille and fenders, was restyled in 1948 as part of the Fleetline series. Its large belt pulley and solid construction made it suitable for demanding farm work. With a wheelbase of 79.25 inches and an operating weight of 4,700 lbs, it was designed for stability and durability in the field.
Today, collectors and enthusiasts value the Oliver 88 Standard for its historical significance, unique design, and role in shaping the agricultural landscape. It serves as a reminder of a bygone era when tractors like this played a crucial role in modernizing farming practices. Restored models are prized possessions, and they often participate in vintage tractor shows and parades, keeping the legacy of the Oliver 88 Standard alive for generations to come.
