Challenger 55
Power
250 hp[P] hp
Production
1996-1998
Engine
Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder
Transmission
Full power shift
From the same series:
Introduction
Challenger 55 Agricultural Crawler Tractor
The Challenger 55 is a high-horsepower agricultural crawler tractor manufactured by Caterpillar between 1996 and 1998. Designed for heavy-duty field operations, this tracked machine provides significant traction and stability in demanding agricultural environments.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a Caterpillar 3126 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, offering 250 horsepower. This liquid-cooled unit features a 7.2 L displacement and a bore/stroke ratio of 110 x 127 mm, delivering consistent torque for heavy draft applications.
Transmission and Drive
The drivetrain consists of a full power shift transmission providing 16 forward and 9 reverse gears. An optional creeper transmission configuration is available, expanding the range to 32 forward and 18 reverse gears for specialized low-speed tasks. Steering is achieved through differential power, supported by wet disc brakes.
Hydraulics and Hitch
Equipped with a variable-displacement, load-sensing, and pressure-compensated hydraulic system, the tractor delivers a pump flow of 31.2 gpm (118.1 lpm) at a pressure of 2750 psi (189.6 bar). It features 3 or 4 valves for implement control. The rear hitch is a category III/II type with a standard lift capacity of 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg), with an optional upgrade available to 15,000 lbs (6,804 kg).
Chassis and Operator Environment
The tractor operates on 16-inch tracks with a 218 cm wheelbase, contributing to an operational weight of 26,000 lbs (11,793 kg). The operator station includes a standard cab equipped with air-conditioning to support long working hours in various field conditions.
Conclusion
The Challenger 55 is engineered for large-scale farming operations requiring high traction and heavy pulling capacity. Its combination of a powerful Caterpillar engine, sophisticated load-sensing hydraulics, and tracked design makes it a specialized tool for soil preparation and heavy implement management.
Production Information of Challenger, 55
- Agricultural Crawler tractor
- Original price was $133,000 in 1998
| Manufacturer | Challenger (a part of Caterpillar) |
|---|
Engine Specifications of Challenger, 55
- Caterpillar 3126
- Liquid-cooled
- Turbocharged diesel
- 6-cylinder
| Rated RPM | 2100 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 442 ci [7.2 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.33x5.00 inches [110 x 127 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 34.4 qts [32.6 L] |
Transmission Information of Challenger, 55
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Full power shift |
|---|---|
| Gears | 16 forward and 9 reverse |
Transmission variants 2
| Type | Creeper |
|---|---|
| Gears | 32 forward and 18 reverse |
- 16-speed full power shift
- 32-speed creeper
Mechanical Specs of Challenger, 55
- Cab standard with air-conditioning.
- Wet disc brakes
| Drive | Crawler |
|---|---|
| Steering | Differential power |
Power Information of Challenger, 55
| Rear PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Engine RPM | 1000@1900 |
| Clutch | Electro-hydraulic wet disc |
| Rear PTO Type | 1000 (1.75) |
Hydraulics Specifications of Challenger, 55
| Type | Variable-displacement load-sensing pressure-compensated |
|---|---|
| Type(optional) | 55 gpm [208.2 lpm] |
| Pump flow | 31.2 gpm [118.1 lpm] |
| Pressure | 2750 psi [189.6 bar] |
| Valves | 3 or 4 |
Optional.
Three-Point Hitch of Challenger, 55
| Rear Type | III/II |
|---|---|
| Rear Type(optional) | 15000 lbs [6804 kg] |
| Control | Draft control |
| Rear lift | 12500 lbs [5670 kg] |
Optional.
Electrical System of Challenger, 55
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Charging system | Alternator |
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 250 hp[P] HP, the Challenger 55 sits just above 45 (240 HP) in Challenger's range. Its power puts it in the 96th percentile of 1990s models in our database (2097 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Challenger 55 have?
The Challenger 55 delivers 250 hp[P] HP.
What years was the Challenger 55 produced?
The Challenger 55 was produced in 1996-1998.
What engine does the Challenger 55 have?
The Challenger 55 is powered by a Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Challenger 55 use?
The Challenger 55 uses a Full power shift transmission.