Tractor Segment:
Mid-range utility tractor, popular in the late 1950s and early 1960s for agricultural and general farm work.
Competitors:
Competed with models from John Deere (e.g., 3020), International Harvester (e.g., 560), Ford (e.g., 4000), Massey Ferguson (e.g., 35).
Features:
Known for its robust build, reliable engines (often Perkins diesel or Waukesha gasoline), and versatile hydraulic system. The Series III introduced updates and refinements over earlier D-17 models.
Primary Coverage:
All mechanical and electrical systems for the Allis-Chalmers Model D-17 Series III Tractor
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 300-400 pages (typical for this era/type of manual)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Likely Printed (or Digital PDF reproduction of original)
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tune-up procedures, fuel system, lubrication, cooling system, starting system, ignition system
Transmission:
Gearbox service, clutch, PTO operation, hydraulics (lift systems, draft control)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, generator/alternator, starter motor troubleshooting
Chassis And Suspension:
Front axle, steering system, rear axle, differential, brakes (mechanical and hydraulic where applicable)
Body And Frame:
Sheet metal repair, component mounting, operator station
Routine Maintenance:
Lubrication charts, fluid change intervals, filter replacement, greasing points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems and their solutions across all systems
Major Repairs:
Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, hydraulic system repairs, brake overhauls
Adjustments:
Valve clearance, carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering complete disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major components. Includes specifications for torque, clearances, and testing procedures.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF; Searchable text and high-resolution scans of original factory documentation are desirable.
Print Quality:
Original factory print quality; clear diagrams, legible text.
Binding:
If printed: Saddle-stitched or perfect bound for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
If printed: Durable, matte finish paper suitable for workshop use, resistant to grease and dirt.
Engine Options:
Typically offered with either a gasoline engine (e.g., Waukesha 302ci) or a diesel engine (e.g., Perkins 4.203 or Allis-Chalmers own diesel variants).
Horsepower Diesel:
Approx. 50-60 PTO horsepower (diesel variants).
Torque Diesel:
Specifications vary, but diesel engines offered strong pulling power for their class.
Fuel Type Diesel:
Diesel fuel
Fuel Type Gasoline:
Gasoline
Carburetor Gasoline:
Zenith, Marvel-Schebler (depending on exact engine spec)
Injection System Diesel:
Roosa-Master or Simms (common for Perkins engines)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Transmission Type:
Allis-Chalmers 6-speed constant mesh transmission (Manual Shift)
Power Director:
Optional Power Director (a two-speed planetary gearset offering 12 forward and 3 reverse speeds).
Pto:
540 RPM Power Take-Off (PTO)
Differential Lock:
Standard differential lock
Wheelbase:
Approx. 82 inches
Length:
Approx. 130 inches (excluding implements)
Width:
Approx. 70 inches (standard rear tread)
Operating Weight:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration and fluids)
Drawbar Horsepower:
Rated for a variety of implements, typically in the 35-45 HP range for drawbar work.
Safety Features Era:
Standard safety features for the era: Rollover Protection (ROPS) was not standard, seat belts were not standard. Operator awareness and safe operating practices are paramount.
Brakes:
Independent rear wheel brakes, potentially hydraulic assist on later models or with specific options. Parking brake mechanism.
Operator Station:
Open operator station with basic controls. Shielding for PTO and moving parts is crucial and detailed in the manual.
Oil Change Engine:
Typically every 100-150 hours for diesel, 50-75 hours for gasoline (dependent on oil quality and operating conditions). Manual will specify.
Transmission Hydraulic Oil:
Change every 500-1000 hours. Manual will specify exact interval and fluid type.
Greasing:
Daily lubrication of all greasing points detailed in the manual. Check kingpins, tie rods, PTO shaft, etc.
Engine Oil Diesel:
API Service Classification CD or CE (or equivalent for era), SAE 30 or 10W-30 depending on temperature. Manual is definitive.
Engine Oil Gasoline:
API Service Classification SF or SG (or equivalent for era), SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Manual is definitive.
Hydraulic Fluid:
Allis-Chalmers HD-20 or equivalent (a specific tractor hydraulic fluid, often Type A or UTF). Capacity is critical.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixture, typically 50/50 with distilled water. Manual will list capacity.
Transmission Gear Oil:
Gear oil, SAE 90. Manual will confirm specifications and capacity.
Common Wear Points:
Wear in transmission gears, PTO clutch engagement, hydraulic pump performance, steering linkage wear, brake shoe adjustment/wear.
Engine Perkins:
Cylinder head gasket leaks, injection pump timing issues, piston ring wear.
Engine Waukesha:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition system (distributor, coil), oil consumption.
Electrical System:
Wiring harness degradation, generator/regulator issues, battery terminal corrosion.
Allishalmers Legacy:
Allis-Chalmers was a major American manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment, known for its orange tractors and innovative designs.
Dseries Development:
The D-17 was part of Allis-Chalmers' successful D-series, evolving from earlier models like the D-14 and D-15, and preceding larger models like the D-19 and D-21. Series III represented the final iteration before major redesigns.
Production Years:
D-17 Series III produced from approximately 1959-1962.
Manufacturing Location:
Galesburg, Illinois, USA.
