Introduction
Allis Chalmers CA Row-Crop Tractor
The Allis Chalmers CA is a row-crop tractor produced in West Allis, Wisconsin, between 1950 and 1958. Part of the manufacturer's legacy of agricultural equipment, this machine was designed for versatility and durability in diverse farming operations.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by an Allis Chalmers Champion J-8 gasoline engine. This liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder, 8-valve unit features a 125.2 cubic inch (2.1 L) displacement. It operates at a rated speed of 1650 RPM, delivering approximately 25 horsepower. The engine utilizes an oil bath air cleaner and requires specific maintenance, such as 0.012-inch valve clearances when hot.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The CA utilizes a non-synchronized transmission providing 4 forward gears and 1 reverse gear, coupled to a dry disc clutch. It is a two-wheel-drive machine featuring differential mechanical contracting band brakes. A notable feature is the 'live' rear PTO, which operates at 538 RPM; this was achieved via a hand clutch mechanism that allowed the differential to spin independently of the ground speed.
Hydraulics and Hitch
The hydraulic system features a capacity of 2 gallons (7.6 L) and operates at a pressure of 3200 psi (220.6 bar). Post-1954 models were equipped with the Allis Snap Coupler hitch system, which facilitated the connection of compatible implements for row-crop applications.
Dimensions and Weight
With a wheelbase of 82 inches (208 cm) and an overall length of 125 inches (317 cm), the tractor offers a stable platform. The operating weight is 2835 lbs (1285 kg), which can be increased to a ballasted weight of 5045 lbs (2288 kg). The adjustable rear tread ranges from 52 to 80 inches, allowing for adaptation to various crop row widths.
Conclusion
The Allis Chalmers CA served as a reliable row-crop tractor throughout the 1950s. Its combination of a 25-horsepower engine, live PTO, and adjustable tread width made it suitable for a wide range of medium-duty agricultural tasks. With nearly 40,000 units produced, it remains a significant model for vintage machinery collectors.
Production Information of Allis Chalmers, CA
- Original price was $1,900 in 1958
- Row-Crop tractor
- The live PTO on the CA was due to a hand clutch that "broke" the rear axle, causing the differential to spin freely.
- Built in West Allis, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Allis Chalmers |
|---|---|
| Total built | 39,499 |
Dimension and Tires Information of Allis Chalmers, CA
| Rear tread | 52 to 80 inches [132 to 203 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 82 inches [208 cm] |
| Ballasted weight | 5045 lbs [2288 kg] |
| Operating weight | 2835 lbs [1285 kg] |
| Length | 125 inches [317 cm] |
| Front tread | 6.25/13 inches [15/33 cm] |
| Height | 73 inches [185 cm] |
| Ag front | 5.00-15 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 10-24 |
Engine Specifications of Allis Chalmers, CA
- Allis Chalmers
- Liquid-cooled vertical I-head
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder 8-valve
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.012 inches (hot) [0.305 mm] |
|---|---|
| Compression | 6.25:1 |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.030 inches [0.762 mm] |
| Firing order | 1-2-4-3 |
| Starter volts | 6 |
| Rated RPM | 1650 |
| Displacement | 125.2 ci [2.1 L] |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x3.50 inches [86 x 89 mm] |
| Bore/Stroke(optional) | Autolite A-7 |
| Point gap | 0.020 inches [0.508 mm] |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.012 inches (hot) [0.305 mm] |
| Sparkplug | AC45 |
| Coolant capacity | 9 qts [8.5 L] |
Transmission Information of Allis Chalmers, CA
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Non-synchronized |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 4 qts [3.8 L] |
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Allis Chalmers, CA
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station
- Manual steering
- Differential mechanical contracting band brakes
Power Information of Allis Chalmers, CA
| Rear PTO | Live |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO Type | 538 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Allis Chalmers, CA
| Capacity | 2 gal [7.6 L] |
|---|---|
| Pressure | 3200 psi [220.6 bar] |
Three-Point Hitch of Allis Chalmers, CA
| Type | Allis Snap Coupler |
|---|
Available after 1954.
Electrical System of Allis Chalmers, CA
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Battery AH | 95 |
| Battery volts | 6 |
| Charging system | Generator |
| Charging amps | 10 |
Where it sits
With 25 hp[P] HP, the Allis Chalmers CA sits just above C (21 HP) in Allis Chalmers's range. Its power puts it in the 24th percentile of 1950s models in our database (592 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Allis Chalmers CA have?
The Allis Chalmers CA delivers 25 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Allis Chalmers CA produced?
The Allis Chalmers CA was produced in 1950-1958.
What engine does the Allis Chalmers CA have?
The Allis Chalmers CA is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder 8-valve engine.
What transmission does the Allis Chalmers CA use?
The Allis Chalmers CA uses a Non-synchronized transmission.
How much does the Allis Chalmers CA weigh?
The Allis Chalmers CA weighs 2835 lbs [1285 kg].
Is the Allis Chalmers CA 4WD?
The Allis Chalmers CA is available in 2WD.