The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor is a remarkable piece of agricultural machinery that holds a significant place in the history of American farming. Manufactured by Allis Chalmers in West Allis, Wisconsin, USA, this 2WD row-crop tractor was produced from 1960 to 1968, comprising two series: Series I from 1960 to 1963 and Series II from 1963 to 1968. With its exceptional design and versatile capabilities, the D15 became a reliable companion to farmers across the nation.

The Allis Chalmers D15 Series I is available with two engine options, offering flexibility to suit the specific needs of farmers. One option is a robust 2.4-liter (149.0 cu·in) four-cylinder gasoline/LP-gas engine, providing ample power for various farming tasks. Alternatively, farmers can opt for the 2.9-liter (175.0 cu·in) four-cylinder diesel engine, known for its efficiency and durability. In the Series II model, a 2.6-liter (160.0 cu·in) four-cylinder gasoline/LP-gas engine is offered, delivering reliable performance and fuel economy. These engine choices ensure that the D15 can handle a wide range of agricultural operations with ease.

The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor offers two transmission options, both designed to enhance productivity and operator convenience. The first option is a partial power shift transmission, featuring eight forward gears and two reverse gears. This transmission provides smooth and efficient gear shifting, enabling farmers to adapt to varying field conditions effortlessly. The second option is a shuttle transmission, equipped with four forward gears and four reverse gears. The shuttle transmission allows for quick and seamless directional changes, making tasks such as loading, grading, and maneuvering in tight spaces considerably easier.

Features Of Allis Chalmers D15 Tractor

Image Source: tractordata.com

Farmers can rely on D15 robust performance to efficiently accomplish a wide range of tasks, from plowing and planting to hauling and cultivating. The D15 represents a significant milestone in the legacy of Allis Chalmers, let’s learn more about its prominent features:

Engine

The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor offers distinct engine options that cater to the specific needs and preferences of farmers. Let’s delve into the engine specifications available for both the Series I and Series II models.

For the Allis Chalmers D15 Series I, farmers have the choice between two engine options. The first engine is a 2.4-liter (2,441 cm2, or 149.0 cu·in) four-cylinder gasoline/LP-gas engine. It features a cylinder bore of 89.0 mm (3.5 in) and a piston stroke of 98.0 mm (3.86 in). The compression ratio rating for the gasoline version is 7.75:1, while the LP-gas version boasts a compression ratio of 8.9:1. This engine generates a PTO output power of 40.5 PS (29.8 kW; 40.0 HP) at 2,000 rpm.

Moving on to the Allis Chalmers D15 Series II, farmers have access to the Allis Chalmers Power Crater engine. This engine is a 2.6-liter (2,622 cm2, or 160.0 cu·in) four-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. It features a cylinder bore of 92.0 mm (3.62 in) and a piston stroke of 98.0 mm (3.86 in). The compression ratio rating for the gasoline version is 8.0:1, with an LP-gas version boasting a compression ratio of 9.0:1.

It’s worth noting that the Allis Chalmers D-175 engine is available in both the Series I and Series II tractors. This engine is a 2.9-liter (2,867 cm2, or 175.0 cu·in) four-cylinder naturally aspirated diesel engine. It features a cylinder bore of 90.0 mm (3.54 in) and a piston stroke of 111.0 mm (4.37 in). With a compression ratio rating of 15.35:1, this diesel engine provides exceptional torque and fuel efficiency. It also produces a PTO output power of 40.5 PS (29.8 kW; 40.0 HP) at 2,000 rpm.

Transmission

The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor offers two transmission options: a partial power shift transmission and a shuttle transmission. Let’s take a closer look at each of these transmission systems.

The partial power shift transmission available in the Allis Chalmers D15 tractor provides farmers with enhanced versatility and ease of use. It features eight forward gears and two reverse gears, the partial power shift transmission enables smooth and efficient gear shifting, ensuring seamless transitions between gears without the need for clutching. This feature is particularly beneficial when navigating hilly terrain or when frequently changing speeds. The transmission’s eight forward gears provide a maximum speed of 24.0 km/h (14.9 mph) in the forward direction, in reverse, the transmission provides a speed of 7.5 km/h (4.7 mph).

To maintain optimal performance, it is important to ensure the partial power shift transmission is properly lubricated. The transmission oil capacity for the Allis Chalmers D15 tractor with this transmission option is 14.0 liters (3.7 US gal, 3.1 Imp. gal.), providing sufficient lubrication and cooling for the transmission system.

The shuttle transmission available in the Allis Chalmers D15 tractor is designed to provide operators with exceptional convenience and maneuverability. This transmission system features four forward gears and four reverse gears, the shuttle transmission enables operators to easily switch between forward and reverse gears, making tasks such as loading, grading, and maneuvering in tight spaces more efficient. This feature eliminates the need for clutching or stopping the tractor to change directions, saving time and effort in various agricultural applications.

Other General Features

The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor boasts a range of Mechanical features that further enhance its value in the agricultural sector. Whether manual or power-assisted, the steering system provides precise control and maneuverability, facilitating efficient operation in the field. The expanding shoe brakes ensure reliable stopping power, enhancing safety during demanding tasks. The open operator station provides excellent visibility and comfort, allowing operators to work for extended periods without fatigue. Furthermore, the D15 comes equipped with a fuel tank capacity of 60.6 liters (16 US gal.; 13.3 Imp. gal) for gasoline and diesel fuel, and 59.6 liters (15.7 US gal.; 13.1 Imp. gal) for LP-gas, ensuring extended working hours without frequent refueling.

List Of Serial Numbers

The serial number of the D15 series I can be found on the torque housing of the tractor.

The serial number of the tractor is written adjacent to the year of its manufacture:

• 1960: 1001
• 1961: 1900
• 1962: 6470
• Final: 8169

The serial number of the D15 series II can be found stamped into the flange where the engine and transmission meet on the left side of the tractor.

The serial number of the tractor is written adjacent to the year of its manufacture:

• 1963: 13001
• 1964: 16928
• 1965: 19681
• 1966: 21375
• 1967: 23734
• 1968: 25127
• Final: 25419

Pros and Cons

Here are some factual pros and cons considering the overall Allis Chalmers D15.

Pros of Allis Chalmers D15 Tractor

• The D15 tractor offers different engine options, including gasoline, LP-gas, and diesel, providing farmers with choices that suit their specific needs in terms of power, fuel efficiency, and fuel availability.
• The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor is a versatile machine that can handle a wide range of agricultural tasks. Whether it’s plowing, planting, cultivating, or hauling, this tractor is designed to adapt to various applications.
  With both a partial power shift transmission and a shuttle transmission available, operators have the flexibility to choose a transmission system that best fits their preferences and operational requirements, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
• Allis Chalmers tractors, including the D15, are known for their sturdy construction and durability. These machines are built to withstand the rigors of agricultural work, ensuring longevity and reliability for farmers.

Cons Of Allis Chalmers D15 Tractor

• The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor was manufactured from 1960 to 1968, which means that finding a well-maintained, original D15 tractor may be challenging. Spare parts and services for older models might also be less readily available compared to newer tractors.
• While the D15 tractor provides essential features for agricultural work, it may lack some of the advanced features found in newer tractors.

Price Of Allis Chalmers D15 Tractor

The original price of the Allis Chalmers D15 tractor was $4,400 in 1967. The price of a used tractor can depend upon the condition of its engine and other mechanical components.

Conclusion

The Allis Chalmers D15 tractor, with its range of engine and transmission options, offers versatility and reliability to farmers in various agricultural applications. While the D15 may lack some of the modern features and advancements found in newer tractors, its sturdy construction and durability make it a dependable choice for those seeking a robust machine. The open operator station, comfortable seating, and intuitive controls contribute to a more comfortable working environment. However, due to its age, finding a well-maintained, original D15 tractor may pose a challenge, and spare parts and services for older models might be less readily available.