The Allis Chalmers D17 reviews one of the best tractors from the D-series. The tractor was built with a high-clearance design, and it’s still one of the best for basic farming tasks.
Although the model is discontinued, we will look into some basic features, specs, and common issues in this tractor.
Key Notes:
- The Allis Chalmers D17 tractor is a vintage model from D-series.
- The tractor features three engine choices, so users can opt for a preferable one.
- The D17 tractor underwent serial changes, and only a few series offer a snap coupler and a three-point hitch.
- The tractor’s high-clearance design improves visibility and is excellent for fieldwork.
Table of Contents
The History of Allis Chalmers D17
Allis Chalmers D17 tractor is a part of the Allis Chalmers D series, manufactured from 1957 to 1969. The D-series tractors were initially produced to replace the previous line of tractors. The new series focused on delivering higher horsepower and better reliability.
The tractors from the D-series were equipped with a three-point hitch, diesel engine options, power steering, and low-compression fuel options.
The majority of the D-series tractors offered a hand-operated shift on-the-go clutches. The hand clutch was available in all models except for the D21.
One of the unique features of the D-series was the previously mentioned hand-clutch, popularly known as Power-Director. This system made every tractor worth the price. The power director indicated that the clutch was in a low position when it was pulled back, while it stayed neutral in the middle and high in the forward range.
The Allis Chalmers D17 tractor was produced in 1957 as a replacement for the popular WD45 tractor. Style-wise, the D17 tractor resembled the D14 model. The tractor was sold in diesel, gas, and LPG engine versions.
The tractor offers a wide clearance, wide front, and narrow dual and single front wheels. The D17 tractor was also built as an orchard model, a wheatland model, while the taller version was excellent for sugar cane agricultural work.
It’s interesting to note that this great tractor underwent several changes throughout production. The most notable D17 tractor is the series IV, also known as the last series.
In 1968, the Allis Chalmers D17 tractor was replaced by the 170 models.
Allis Chalmers D17 Serial Numbers
| Year of production | Serial Number |
|---|---|
| 1957 | 1001 (Series I) |
| 1958 | 4300 (Series I) |
| 1959 | 16500 (Series I) |
| 1960 | 28200 (Series I) |
| Final | 31625 (Series I) |
| 1960 | 32001 (Series II) |
| 1961 | 33100 (Series II) |
| 1962 | 38070 (Series II) |
| Final | 41540 (Series II) |
| 1962 | 42001 (Series III) |
| 1963 | 65001 (Series III) |
| 1964 | 70611 (Series III) |
| Final | 72768 (Series III) |
| 1964 | 75001 (Series IV) |
| 1965 | 77090 (Series IV) |
| 1966 | 80533 (Series IV) |
| 1967 | 86061 (Series IV) |
| Final | 89213 (Series IV) |
Key Specifications
| Model | Allis Chalmers 17 |
| Width | 76.4 inches |
| Length | Gasoline: 139.8 in Diesel: 143.0 in |
| Height | 80.7 inches |
| Wheelbase | Gasoline: 92.9 in Diesel: 95.7 in |
| Fuel tank capacity | Gasoline/diesel: 72.0 liters LP-gas: 84.4 liters |
| Cabin type | Open operator station |
Allis Chalmers D17: Engine
The Allis Chalmers D17 tractor is mainly known for its engine choice. The tractor is equipped with one of the three engines so that you can opt for a diesel, gasoline, or LPG engine.
Allis Chalmers diesel engine: this model is a six-cylinder 4.3L engine with a cylinder bore of 3.54 inches and a piston stroke of 4.37 inches. The compression ratio for this engine measures out in 15.7:1 while the maximum power output at 1.650 rpm is 61HP.
Allis Chalmers gasoline/LPG engine: this model is a four-cylinder 3.7L engine. The cylinder bore measures 4.02 inches while the piston stroke is 4.49 in. The compression ratio for the gasoline engine is 7.25:1, while the LPG engine has a compression ratio of 8.25:1. The maximum power output for the gasoline engine is 63 HP.
Gasoline Engine
| Engine model | Allis Chalmers |
| Engine type | Four-stroke, liquid cooled, inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement | 226 cu·in |
| Bore and stroke | 4.02 in x 4.49 in |
| Compression ratio | 7.25:1 |
| Horsepower | 63 HP |
| Starter | electric |
| Coolant capacity | 13.7L |
| Rated rpm | 1650 |
| Firing order | 1-2-4-3 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches |
| Point gap | 0.022 inches |
| Intake valve clearance | 0.013 inches |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.013 inches |
Diesel Engine
| Engine model | Allis Chalmers |
| Engine type | Four-stroke, liquid cooled, inline |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Displacement | 262 cu·in |
| Bore and stroke | 3.54 in x 4.37 in |
| Compression ratio | 15.7:1 |
| Horsepower | 61 HP |
| Starter | electric |
| Coolant capacity | 15.1L |
| Oil capacity | 5.7 L |
LP gas engine
| Engine model | Allis Chalmers |
| Engine type | Four-stroke, liquid cooled,vertical I-head |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement | 226 cu.in |
| Bore and stroke | 4.00×4.50 inches |
| Compression ratio | 8.25:1 |
| Firing order | 1-2-4-3 |
| Rated RPM | 1650 |
Allis Chalmers D17: Transmission
The Allis Chalmers D17 tractor features a partial power shift transmission with eight forward and two reverse gear options.
One of the most notable features in this review is the Power Director. The power director is a transmission model commonly used with Alli Chalmers D-series.
Other tractors may not deliver smooth transmission, but the D17 is an exception. Instead of using a foot clutch, you can put the Power Director in a neutral position. This is an excellent feature that lets you operate different equipment and tasks. For example, most people found this system beneficial for snow hauling or hay baling.
In addition, the partial power shift transmission allows this great tractor to shift more than two speeds without clutching.
Transmission
| Chassis | 4×2 2WD |
| Steering type | Manual steering or power steering |
| Transmission model | Power-Director |
| Transmission type | partial power shift |
| Brakes | – |
| Number of gears | 8 forward; 2-reverse |
| Speed | Forward: 19.0 kmhReverse: 4.1 kmh |
Allis Chalmers D17: Hydraulic & PTO
The Allis Chalmers D17 hydraulics is an open-center type. As you may be familiar, the open center hydraulics offer the advantage of using a single central pump. In addition, the open-center hydraulic system allows you to use more than one pump in different stages for different farm applications.
The live PTO and live hydraulics are only available with the Series IV. However, they only apply with a power director that stops the tractor’s ground. When the live hydraulics and the three-point hitch are combined, this tractor can utilize and load heavy-duty tasks with little work.
On the D17 tractor, the PTO power is supplied from the PTO shaft, located behind the flywheel foot clutch and ahead of the power director transmission.
One of the best things about the Allis Chalmers D17 tractor is that it uses an oil bath. So if you are ever stuck in a heavy baling, brush hogging, or similar operations, you can put the PD in a neutral position.
For instance, the D17 Series I, series II and series III are equipped with a snap coupler and have the piston type high pressure pump in the torque tube. The hydraulics stop as soon as the foot clutch is activated. However, it continues to work when the power director is neutral.
The Allis Chalmers D17 is a bit tricky for loader work, but nothing an experienced operator cannot manage. Before you purchase the aftermarket tractor, make sure to test drive it and check the hand clutch.
The Series IV is available with a snap coupler or a Category II three-point hitch.
Hydraulics
| Hydraulic type | Open center |
| Hydraulic capacity | 36.9 L |
| Pressure | 2000 psi |
| Number of valves | 1 |
| Pump Flow | 1.5 gpm |
| Total flow | 10.5 GPM |
PTO
| Rear pto type | Live PTO |
| Rear pto speed | 540 rpm |
| Plows | 5 |
| Drawbar | 48.64 hp |
| Belt | 52.70 hp |
Allis Chalmers D17: Tires & Dimensions
The AC D17 features AG rear tires that measure 13-28 inches, while the front wheels measure 6.00-16 inches. Considering these are agricultural wheels, operators should be fine with traction.
When the weather conditions get rough, it’s advisable to use weight or chains. But, in regular everyday conditions, the AG tires work terrifically. They do not slip or slide, while the stability is guaranteed.
| AG rear tires | 13-28 |
| AG front tires | 6.00-16 |
| Dimensions | |
| Height of the hood | 62 inches |
| Exhaust height | 81 inches |
| Ballasted weight | 9,395 lbs |
| Operating weight | 4,670 lbs |
| Front thread | 53 to 79 inches |
| Rear thread | 58 to 92 inches |
FAQs
What is the most popular Allis-Chalmers tractor?
The most popular Allis Chalmers tractor is the WD45 model. The WD 45 AC is the first tractor by the brand that features power steering. The WD45 tractor features a diesel engine, powerful built, and reliable delivery, and it’s one of the mightiest tractors of its size.
How many Allis-Chalmers D17 was made?
The Allis Chalmers D17 tractor was produced between the years 1957 to 1969, and within that time, around 89,000 were made. The AC D17 tractor remains one of the most popular by the Allis Chalmers brand, so it’s safe to say this model brought popularity and financial benefit to the company.
Does Allis Chalmers D17 have live PTO?
Yes, the Allis Chalmers D17 does feature a live PTO. Like the rest of the D-Series, the live PTO is an integral part of these tractors. Although the PTO is live via a hand clutch, it’s not independent. As soon as the foot clutch is depressed, the PTO stops. However, when the power director is in a neutral position, the PTO will work without a problem.
How much horsepower does an Allis Chalmers D17 have?
The Allis Chalmers D17 tractor delivers a total engine power of 63 HP, while the drawbar power is rated at 46 HP.
What engine is in a D17 Allis-Chalmers?
Allis Chalmers is equipped with one of the three engine choices: diesel, gasoline, or an LP gas engine.
What is the difference between D17A and D17A2?
The difference between the D17A1 and the D18A2 tractor is that in the head of the tractor. The D17A2 has higher compression pistons, different exhaust, and an oil pan. In addition, the D17A1 does not feature vTec, while the a2 version does.
Conclusion
We hope our review of the Allis Chalmers D17 tractor helped you understand all the qualities to get your money’s worth! Whether you sell or buy this tractor, it still holds a fair price.
The vintage model only experiences common problems if it has been neglected. The majority of possible repairs are easy to fix.
