Introduction
Allis-Chalmers WD: A Row-Crop Tractor Reference
The Allis-Chalmers WD is a row-crop tractor manufactured in West Allis, Wisconsin, between 1948 and 1953. With 146,125 units built, it represents a significant model in mid-20th-century agricultural mechanization, recognized for its specific mechanical innovations in power control.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by an Allis-Chalmers 4-cylinder, 8-valve, liquid-cooled gasoline engine with a displacement of 201 cubic inches (3.3 L). It operates at a rated speed of 1400 RPM. The engine features a 5.75:1 compression ratio and a 4.00x4.00 inch bore and stroke. Starting is facilitated by a 6-volt electrical system with a Delco generator, though a hand crank is also provided as a secondary starting method.
Transmission and Power Control
The WD utilizes a non-synchronized gear transmission offering 4 forward speeds and 1 reverse speed. A defining feature of this model is the Two-Clutch Power Control system. This dual-clutch arrangement employs a foot-operated dry clutch for the main driveline and a hand-operated wet clutch that allows the operator to maintain PTO operation while the tractor is slowed or brought to a full stop.
Hydraulics and PTO
The hydraulic system is of the open-center type, operating at a pressure of 1200 psi (82.7 bar) with a reservoir capacity of 1.25 gallons (4.7 L). The rear PTO operates at a standard 540 RPM, providing the necessary drive for mounted implements. The tractor is equipped with a single hitch point for implement attachment.
Mechanical Specifications and Dimensions
The tractor is a two-wheel-drive machine featuring manual worm and horizontal sector steering and manual external compression band brakes. It has an operating weight of 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg), which can be ballasted up to 5,050 lbs (2,290 kg). The wheelbase measures 88.1 inches (223 cm), and the rear tread width is adjustable between 55.6 and 90.1 inches (141 to 228 cm) to accommodate various row-crop configurations.
Conclusion
The Allis-Chalmers WD remains a notable example of post-war agricultural engineering. Its combination of a reliable, straightforward engine and the innovative dual-clutch system made it highly versatile for row-crop operations of its era, catering to farmers requiring both traction and consistent implement power.
Allis Chalmers WD Manuals & Documentation
Download the manuals and documentation available for the Allis Chalmers WD: repair and workshop manuals, operator's handbooks, spare-parts catalogs and technical leaflets — free PDF files.
Archive documentation provided for reference, hosted by Tractor-Info.
Production Information of Allis Chalmers, WD
- Row-Crop tractor
- The Allis-Chalmers WD featured Two-Clutch Power Control and power-shifted rear wheels. The dual clutch system used a foot-operated dry clutch to disconnect the PTO and driveline from the engine. A hand-operated wet clutch allowed the PTO to operate while the tractor was slowed or stopped.
- Built in West Allis, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Allis Chalmers |
|---|---|
| Original price | $1,830 |
| Total built | 146,125 |
Dimension and Tires Information of Allis Chalmers, WD
| Wheelbase | 88.1 inches [223 cm] |
|---|---|
| Ballasted weight | 5050 lbs [2290 kg] |
| Operating weight | 3500 lbs [1587 kg] |
| Length | 127 inches [322 cm] |
| Rear tread | 55.6 to 90.1 inches [141 to 228 cm] |
| Height | 81.5 inches [207 cm] |
| Ag front | 5.50-16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 11-28 |
| Ag rear | 12-28 |
Engine Specifications of Allis Chalmers, WD
- Allis-Chalmers
- In 1953 (SN 136318) a distributor ignition system replaced the older magneto system.
- Liquid-cooled vertical I-head
- Gasoline
- 4-cylinder 8-valve
| Starter | Electric |
|---|---|
| Compression | 5.75:1 |
| Displacement | 201 ci [3.3 L] |
| Starter volts | 6 |
| Starter volts(optional) | Hand crank |
| Firing order | 1-2-4-3 |
| Rated RPM | 1400 |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.00x4.00 inches [102 x 102 mm] |
Transmission Information of Allis Chalmers, WD
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Non-synchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Allis Chalmers, WD
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual external compression band type brakes
| Steering | Manual worm and horizontal sector |
|---|
Power Information of Allis Chalmers, WD
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | Live |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Hydraulics Specifications of Allis Chalmers, WD
| Type | Open center |
|---|---|
| Valves(optional) | 1 |
| Capacity | 1.25 gal [4.7 L] |
| Pressure | 1200 psi [82.7 bar] |
Three-Point Hitch of Allis Chalmers, WD
| Rear Type | Single Hitch Point |
|---|
Electrical System of Allis Chalmers, WD
| Ground | Positive |
|---|---|
| Charging system | Delco generator |
| Battery volts | 6 |
Where it sits
With 28 hp[P] HP, the Allis Chalmers WD sits between WC (23 HP) and WD45 (48 HP) in Allis Chalmers's range. Its power puts it in the 39th percentile of 1940s models in our database (263 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Allis Chalmers WD have?
The Allis Chalmers WD delivers 28 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Allis Chalmers WD produced?
The Allis Chalmers WD was produced in 1948-1953.
What engine does the Allis Chalmers WD have?
The Allis Chalmers WD is powered by a Gasoline, 4-cylinder 8-valve engine.
What transmission does the Allis Chalmers WD use?
The Allis Chalmers WD uses a Non-synchronized gear transmission.
How much does the Allis Chalmers WD weigh?
The Allis Chalmers WD weighs 3500 lbs [1587 kg].
Is the Allis Chalmers WD 4WD?
The Allis Chalmers WD is available in 2WD.