Oliver 550 Tractor Review & Specification

oliver 550

Oliver 550 Tractor Review & Specification

Header
Brand:
Oliver
Model:
Oliver 550
Engine:
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, inline
Transmission & Oil Capacity:
18.9 L (5 US. gal, 4.2 Imp. gal.)
Year:
1958 - 1975
Fuel Type:
Diesel, Gasoline
Cylinders:
4

The Oliver 550 tractor is a classic piece of farm machinery that has been a reliable workhorse for generations of farmers. It is a 2WD utility tractor manufactured by Oliver in Charles City, Iowa, USA, from 1958 to 1975, a company known for producing innovative and dependable agricultural equipment. With its rugged build and powerful engine, the Oliver 550 quickly became a staple on farms across the United States.

The Oliver 550 is available with either a 2.5 L (155.0 cu·in) four-cylinder gasoline engine or a 2.5 L (155.0 cu·in) four-cylinder diesel engine, which gives farmers the option to choose an engine that suits their specific needs.

The tractor is equipped with a gear-type transmission with 6 forward and 2 reverse gears and a dry disc clutch, providing farmers with precise control over the tractor’s speed and power. It uses power-assist steering and differential mechanical dry disc brakes for easy handling and safe stopping. Additionally, the tractor features an open operator station and a hydraulic type-open center system.

The Oliver 550 was a popular tractor among farmers due to its versatility and reliability. It was able to handle a variety of tasks, from plowing fields and hauling loads to mowing grass and baling hay. The tractor’s power and performance made it a valuable asset to farmers looking to maximize their efficiency and productivity.

Features of The Oliver 550 Tractor:

Features of the Oliver 550 Tractor
Image source: youtube.com

The Oliver 550 was known for its durability and longevity, making it a long-term investment for farmers. Overall, the Oliver 550 Tractor has cemented its place in history as a reliable and versatile workhorse that helped shape the farming industry. Let’s learn more about its features.

Engine

The engine options of the Oliver 550 tractor were a key selling point for farmers looking for a reliable and efficient workhorse. Farmers could choose between two engines: a 2.5 L (155.0 cu·in) four-cylinder gasoline engine or a 2.5 L (155.0 cu·in) four-cylinder diesel engine.

The gasoline engine provided farmers with a reliable and efficient power source of 42 PS (30.9 kW; 41.4 HP) at 2,000 rpm of PTO output power that was easy to start and maintain. With its four cylinders and 2.5-liter displacement, 92.0 mm (3.62 in) of the cylinder bore, and 95.0 mm (3.74 in) of the piston stroke, it delivered plenty of power to handle a variety of tasks on the farm.

The diesel engine, on the other hand, has a cylinder bore of 92.0 mm (3.62 in) and a piston stroke of 95.0 mm (3.74 in). It was known for its exceptional fuel efficiency and longevity. It provided farmers with 42 PS (30.9 kW; 41.4 HP) at 2,000 rpm of PTO output power at a compression ratio rating of 16.0:1. It could run for hours on end without needing to refuel.

Both engine options brought their own unique benefits and comfort to farmers. The gasoline engine offered a smooth and quiet ride, while the diesel engine was known for its low-end torque and exceptional pulling power. Additionally, both engines were easy to maintain and service, ensuring that farmers could keep their tractors running smoothly year after year.

Transmission

The transmission model of the Oliver 550 tractor is a gear-type transmission with 6 forward and 2 reverse gears, providing farmers with precise control over their tractor’s speed and power. The dry disc clutch allows for smooth and easy shifting between gears, making it easy for farmers to adjust their speed to suit the task at hand. With a top speed of 23.9 km/h (14.9 mph) in forward gear and 6.6 km/h (4.1 mph) in reverse, the Oliver 550 was designed to handle a variety of tasks on the farm. Whether it was plowing fields, hauling loads, or mowing grass, the transmission of the Oliver 550 provided farmers with the power and speed they needed to get the job done efficiently and effectively.

Hydraulic System

The hydraulic system of the Oliver 550 tractor is an open center system, meaning that the hydraulic fluid flows through the system constantly, even when there is no demand for power. This allows for quick and efficient response to the operator’s commands to any adjustments in speed or direction. The hydraulic capacity of the Oliver 550 is 9.5 L (2.5 US. gal, 2.1 Imp. gal.), with a pump flow of 5.25 gpm (19.9 lpm) providing plenty of power to operate implements such as plows, mowers, and loaders.

Other General Features

The Oliver 550 tractor is a 4×2 2WD utility tractor, It has power assist steering with differential mechanical dry disc brakes and an open operator station, it has a fuel tank capacity of 49.2L.

In Oliver 550 Tractor, the live rear PTO is independent, This ensures your safety when using the tractor. The rear PTO speed is 540/1000 rpm. It is rated at 41.39 HP at the PTO (Power take-off).

List of Serial Numbers Of Oliver 550 Tractor

List of the serial numbers with the year of manufacture is as follows:

1958 – 60501

1959 – 72632

1960 – 84416

1961 – 111868

1962 – 117541

1963 – 127365

1964 – 140620

1965 – 162265

1966 – 171923

1967 – 186165

1968 – 206095

1969 – 213340

1970 – 222833

1971 – 226965

1972 – 232918

1973 – 238237

1974 – 248375

1975 – 259255

Final – 259491

Pros of Oliver 550 Tractor

  • With a 4×2 2WD and  4-cylinder engine that could produce up to 42 horsepower, the Oliver 550 tractor is a versatile and powerfull machine that could handle heavy-duty tasks.
  • The Oliver 550 tractor was built to last, with a sturdy design and high-quality materials that could withstand the rigors of heavy use on the farm or job site.
  • The Oliver 550 tractor has a 6-forward and 2-reverse gear-type transmission with a dry disc clutch that allows for smooth gear shifting. The tractor can reach a maximum speed of 23.9 km/h (14.9 mph) in forward gear and 6.6 km/h (4.1 mph) in reverse.
  • The Oliver 550 tractor has an open center hydraulic system that provides a constant flow of hydraulic fluid, even when there is no demand for power. The system has a hydraulic capacity of 9.5 L and a pump flow of 5.25 gpm, allowing it to power various implements like plows, mowers, and loaders.

Cons Of Oliver 550 Tractor

  • The Oliver 550 tractor may consume more fuel than newer models, which could make it less cost-effective over the long run.
  • While parts for the Oliver 550 are still available from aftermarket suppliers, they may be more difficult to find than parts for newer models. It also may require more time and effort in maintenance than newer models that are designed to be low-maintenance.

Price Of The Oliver 550 Tractor

The original price of the 1975 built Oliver 550 tractor was $4400 USD. The price of a used tractor depends on its condition and location.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Oliver 550 tractor is a versatile and reliable workhorse that played a significant role in shaping the farming industry. Its durable build, powerful engine options, and precise transmission and hydraulic system made it a valuable asset to farmers for decades. The Oliver 550 is a classic piece of farm machinery that has cemented its place in history as a long-term investment for farmers. Even though it was manufactured from 1958 to 1975, its legacy lives on, and it continues to be a sought-after tractor for collectors and farmers alike.

Technical Specifications

Engine Details
Engine Model: Oliver
Bore and stroke: 3.62x3.75 inches
Engine type: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, inline
Compression ratio: Gasoline- 7.75:1, Diesel- 16:1
Cylinders: 4
Horsepower: 41.4 HP
Fuel type: Diesel, Gasoline
Starter: Electric
Fuel Capacity: 49.2 liters (13 US gal.; 10.8 Imp. gal)
Coolant Capacity: NA
Rated RPM: 2000
Displacement: 2.5L(155 ci)
Intake valve clearance: NA
Torque RPM: NA
Exhaust valve clearance: NA
Power Details
Drawbar (Claimed):​ 35.3 HP
Drawbar (Tested): 35.36 HP
PTO (Claimed): 41.39 HP
PTO (Tested): 41.39 HP
Belt (Claimed): NA
Belt (Tested): NA
Plows: NA
Transmission and Chassis​
Chassis: 4×2 2WD
Transmission type: Gear type with dry disc clutch
Steering type: Power assist
Gears: 6 forward and 2 reverse
Brakes: Differential mechanical dry disc
Speed: Forward- 23.9 kmh (14.9 mph), Reverse- 6.6 kmh (4.1 mph)
Transmission model: NA
Transmission oil capacity: 18.9 L (5 US. gal, 4.2 Imp. gal.)
Dimensions and Tires​
Wheelbase: 72.9 inches
Front tire: 6.00-16
Weight: 3,730 lbs(1691 kg)
Rear tire: 12-26
Height: 58 inches
Height (Exhaust): NA
Hitch And Attachments​
Mower deck type: NA
Mower deck size: NA
Mid mower deck: NA
Mid mower deck size: NA
Blade type: NA
Blade Width: NA
Hitch type: I
Attachment list: NA

Quick Overview:

Header
Brand:
Oliver
Model:
Oliver 550
Engine:
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, inline
Transmission & Oil Capacity:
18.9 L (5 US. gal, 4.2 Imp. gal.)
Year:
1958 - 1975
Fuel Type:
Diesel, Gasoline
Cylinders:
4

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