Allis Chalmers B
Power
17 hp[B] hp
Production
1938-1957
Engine
Gasoline, 4-cylinder
Transmission
Unsynchronized gear
Weight
2060 lbs [934 kg]
Drive
2WD
Introduction
Allis-Chalmers Model B: Row-Crop Tractor
The Allis-Chalmers Model B is a row-crop tractor produced between 1938 and 1957. Developed in response to the prevalence of small-scale farms under 100 acres in the 1930s, this machine was designed as an economical alternative to draft animals.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 113 cubic-inch (1.9 L) 4-cylinder gasoline engine manufactured by Waukesha. It utilizes liquid cooling and operates at a rated speed of 1400 RPM. The engine features an intake and exhaust valve clearance of 0.010 inches when hot, with a firing order of 1-2-4-3.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The powertrain consists of an unsynchronized gear transmission offering three forward speeds and one reverse gear. Power is transferred via a dry disc clutch. The unit is configured for two-wheel drive, utilizing differential mechanical contracting band brakes for stopping power.
Electrical and PTO Systems
The electrical system operates on a 6-volt battery with a positive ground and utilizes a generator for charging at 12 amps. The rear power take-off (PTO) is transmission-driven and operates at 560 RPM, providing consistent power for implements attached via the Allis Snap Coupler hitch.
Dimensions and Handling
The Model B has a wheelbase of 73.4 inches and a total length of 110.25 inches. Its versatility is enhanced by adjustable front and rear treads, allowing it to adapt to various row spacings. The base shipping weight is 2060 lbs, which can be increased to 4193 lbs with ballasting for improved traction.
Conclusion
The Allis-Chalmers Model B served as a foundational machine for smaller agricultural operations throughout its 19-year production run. Its design prioritizes mechanical simplicity, ease of maintenance, and versatility, making it a significant model for historians and collectors of mid-20th-century agricultural equipment.
Videos
Allis Chalmers B Manuals & Documentation
Download the manuals and documentation available for the Allis Chalmers B: repair and workshop manuals, operator's handbooks, spare-parts catalogs and technical leaflets — free PDF files.
- Brochure publicitairePDF · 2.186 Mo
- Brochure publicitairePDF · 2.281 Mo
- Brochure publicitairePDF · 0.474 Mo
- Documentation techniquePDF · 8.796 Mo
- Manuel d'atelierPDF · 24.386 Mo
- Manuel de servicePDF · 10.232 Mo
Archive documentation provided for reference, hosted by Tractor-Info.
Production Information of Allis Chalmers, B
- The Allis-Chalmers model B was the result of research by Harry Merritt, Allis tractor division manager, into U.S. farm sizes in the early 1930s. At that time, most tractors were being used on farms larger than 100 acres, while more than half of all farms were under 100 acres. The Allis B was specifically designed to enter into the small-farm market, and early literature focused on the economy of using tractors instead of horses.
- Row-Crop tractor
- Original price was $1,500 in 1957
| Manufacturer | Allis Chalmers |
|---|---|
| Total built | 120,783 |
| Total built(optional) | Southampton, England |
| Factories | West Allis, Wisconsin, USA |
Dimension and Tires Information of Allis Chalmers, B
| Front tread | 38 to 60 inches [96 to 152 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 73.4 inches [186 cm] |
| Height (exhaust) | 76.75 inches [194 cm] |
| Height (exhaust)(optional) | 62 inches (maximum) [157 cm] |
| Length | 110.25 inches [280 cm] |
| Ground clearance | 21.75 inches [55 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 2060 lbs [934 kg] |
| Width | 52.7 inches (minimum) [133 cm] |
| Rear tread | 40 to 60 inches [101 to 152 cm] |
| Rear tread | 40 to 52 inches [101 to 132 cm] |
| Front tread | 42 inches [106 cm] |
| Front tread(optional) | 28 inches (Asparagus Special) [71 cm] |
| Ballasted weight | 4193 lbs [1901 kg] |
| Ag front | 4.00-15 |
|---|---|
| Ag front(optional) | 8-38 (Asparagus Special) |
| Ag front(optional) | 7-28 (Potato Special) |
| Ag rear | 9-24 |
| Ag rear | 10-24 |
Engine Specifications of Allis Chalmers, B
- Waukesha
- Liquid-cooled
- Original engine, used in 1937 on the first 96 tractors built
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder
| Sparkplug gap | 0.035 inches [0.889 mm] |
|---|---|
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.010 inches (hot) [0.254 mm] |
| Rated RPM | 1400 |
| Point gap | 0.020 inches [0.508 mm] |
| Firing order | 1-2-4-3 |
| Coolant capacity | 8 qts [7.6 L] |
| Rated RPM | 1400 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.00x4.00 inches [76 x 102 mm] |
| Displacement | 113 ci [1.9 L] |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.010 inches (hot) [0.254 mm] |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.010 inches (hot) [0.254 mm] |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.010 inches (hot) [0.254 mm] |
| Point gap | 0.020 inches [0.508 mm] |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.040 inches [1.016 mm] |
Transmission Information of Allis Chalmers, B
Transmission variants 1
| 32oF [0oC]↓ | : SAE90 |
|---|---|
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
| Oil type | 32oF [0oC]↑ : SAE140 32oF [0oC]↓ : SAE90 |
| Oil capacity | 6 qts [5.7 L] |
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
| 32oF [0oC]↑ | : SAE140 |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Allis Chalmers, B
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station. Canvas cab optional.
- Differential mechanical contracting band brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|
Power Information of Allis Chalmers, B
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 560 |
Three-Point Hitch of Allis Chalmers, B
| Type | Allis Snap Coupler |
|---|
Electrical System of Allis Chalmers, B
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 6 |
| Charging system | Generator |
| Charging amps | 12 |
Where it sits
With 17 hp[B] HP, the Allis Chalmers B sits between 6-12 (13 HP) and 5015 (18 HP) in Allis Chalmers's range. Its power puts it in the 6th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Allis Chalmers B have?
The Allis Chalmers B delivers 17 hp[B] HP.
What years was the Allis Chalmers B produced?
The Allis Chalmers B was produced in 1938-1957.
What engine does the Allis Chalmers B have?
The Allis Chalmers B is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Allis Chalmers B use?
The Allis Chalmers B uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.
How much does the Allis Chalmers B weigh?
The Allis Chalmers B weighs 2060 lbs [934 kg].
Is the Allis Chalmers B 4WD?
The Allis Chalmers B is available in 2WD.