Market Position:
The Allis-Chalmers Model B was a highly successful and popular utility tractor, widely used in small farms, horticulture, and general agricultural tasks during its production run. It was known for its reliability, affordability, and versatility.
Competitors:
Competed with tractors from manufacturers like John Deere (e.g., Model B, Model A), International Harvester (e.g., Farmall Cub, Farmall H), Ford (e.g., 8N), and Massey-Harris. The Model B offered a strong value proposition.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Compact size, robust construction, efficient engine, and a wide range of optional implements and attachments. Designed for ease of operation and maintenance.
Key Features Of Manual:
Comprehensive factory-level information, detailed diagrams, step-by-step instructions, and troubleshooting guides, catering to both novice and experienced users.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Clutch, Transmission, Rear Axle and Differential, Steering System, Brakes, Electrical System, Hydraulics, Implement Mounting, Sheet Metal and Frame, Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to actual manual for exact count; typically 300-600 pages for comprehensive service manuals of this era.
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the Allis-Chalmers Model B engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustments, fuel pump, fuel lines, and tank service.
Ignition System:
Magneto or distributor service, spark plug maintenance, timing adjustments.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and hose service.
Clutch:
Clutch assembly disassembly, inspection, adjustment, and replacement.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, component inspection, lubrication, and reassembly procedures.
Rear Axle And Differential:
Axle housing service, differential inspection, bearing adjustments, and gear backlash.
Steering System:
Steering gear box, linkage, and tie rod end service.
Brakes:
Brake shoe adjustment, drum service, and linkage maintenance.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter, generator/alternator service (if applicable).
Hydraulics:
Information on hydraulic lift systems (if equipped), pump, and cylinder service.
Implement Mounting:
Information on attaching and operating various implements.
Sheet Metal And Frame:
Body panel removal, installation, and chassis inspection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication charts, fluid changes, filter replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides are included.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Features high-quality diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations essential for understanding component relationships and assembly.
Engine Model:
Allis-Chalmers Model B 4-cylinder gasoline engine
Engine Displacement:
Approximately 125.5 cubic inches (2.05 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 3.00 in x 4.50 in (76.2 mm x 114.3 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 6.0:1 (varies slightly by year and configuration)
Horsepower Rating:
Advertised drawbar horsepower typically around 22-24 HP; belt horsepower higher.
Torque Rating:
Not prominently advertised in the same way as modern vehicles, but designed for substantial pulling power.
Fuel Type:
Gasoline (Standard)
Carburetor:
Zenith or Marvel-Schebler (specific model varies, covered in manual)
Fuel Delivery:
Mechanical fuel pump
Ignition Type:
Magneto (e.g., Wico or Fairbanks-Morse) or battery ignition system with distributor.
Transmission Type:
Sliding gear, constant mesh transmission
Number Of Gears:
4 Forward speeds, 1 Reverse speed
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for each gear.
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch
Power Take Off:
Standard PTO (Power Take-Off) shaft, typically 540 RPM, with detailed service information.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 75 inches (1905 mm)
Overall Length:
Approximately 115 inches (2921 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 65 inches (1651 mm) at rear wheels
Ground Clearance:
Varies with tire size, but typically around 12-15 inches (300-380 mm) under the rear axle.
Shipping Weight:
Approximately 2,400 - 2,800 lbs (1089 - 1270 kg), depending on configuration.
Operating Weight:
Higher than shipping weight due to fluids and operational readiness.
Safety Standards:
Tractor safety features are basic by modern standards. Manual covers safe operating practices and mechanical safety checks. Modern safety features like ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structures) are not original equipment but may be aftermarket additions, and the manual would not cover their installation or specific safety benefits.
Active Safety Features:
Basic braking system, sturdy chassis. Manual emphasizes correct operation and maintenance for safe use.
Passive Safety Features:
Operator seat, basic controls. No airbags, seatbelts, or crumple zones as found in modern vehicles.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 50-100 operating hours or annually. Specific recommendation in manual.
Transmission Oil Change:
Refer to manual for specific intervals; usually less frequent than engine oil.
Grease Points:
Daily or weekly lubrication of various pivot points and bearings as per lubrication chart in manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 30 or SAE 10W-30 (depending on climate and specific engine recommendations at the time of production; manual will specify)
Transmission Oil Type:
GL-1 or GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 90W or 140W, manual is definitive)
Coolant Type:
Water with anti-freeze additive (e.g., ethylene glycol) for cold weather operation.
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
If hydraulic lift is present, specific hydraulic oil or tractor fluid as per manual.
Common Issues:
Wear on clutch, transmission synchros (if applicable to specific years), carburetor adjustments, magneto maintenance, potential oil leaks from seals and gaskets, wear in steering components.
Brand Heritage:
Allis-Chalmers was a major American manufacturer of agricultural, construction, and industrial machinery. Known for innovation and quality, the company has a significant legacy in the tractor industry.
Model Evolution:
The Model B was introduced in 1937 and produced until 1957, undergoing various updates and variations (e.g., C, RC, DC, DLC models). It was a foundational model for the company.
Production Period:
1937 - 1957
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured at the Allis-Chalmers plant in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Serial Number Location:
Typically found on a plate attached to the tractor frame or engine block; specific location details will be in the manual.
Front Tire Size:
Various sizes were optional; common sizes include 4.00-12 or 5.50-16.
Rear Tire Size:
Various sizes were optional; common sizes include 9.00-24 or 10.00-24.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
Refer to manual for specific wheel hub details and bolt patterns. Wheel types (e.g., steel, adjustable split rims) can vary.
