Jimmy Screamin’ at Ollie: 1963 Oliver 1900 GM 4×4

The start of the ‘60s was when the passenger car horsepower races got hot and heavy, but not many car guys know the same thing was happening with tractors. The difference was farmers needed the power to get their work done faster and more efficiently. The car guys just wanted it. Well, so did the farmers – they just had better justification.

The World of Diesel-Powered Tractors

Oliver’s 1960 introduction to the realm of increased horsepower came with the four-digit series of tractors, which were in many ways just a rehash of the late ‘50s era gear. (That may sound dismissive until you consider their ‘50s era tractors were a bit ahead of the competition.) John Deere and International’s “All-New!” six-cylinder tractors were somewhat blunted by Oliver’s “25 Years of Six-Cylinder Power” ad campaign.

The 1800 and 1900 models came first in ’60, then the 1600 in ’62. Four-wheel drive versions of the 1800 and 1900 debuted for ’62, along with revisions for all the tractors that were dubbed the Series Bs. A four-wheel 1600 came in ’64. Oliver had used diesels as far back as 1948, starting with the inline 4-stroke sixes from Waukesha. These were good, economical diesels that used the Lanova Power Cell but they weren’t high power engines. When Oliver decided to tap the high-horsepower diesel market, they went with GM’s 2-stroke diesels.

The first GM-powered Ollie was the ‘54 Super 99 GM, which used a 3-71. The ’58-61 990 GM and 995 GM also used the 3-71, but enhanced it to extract a few more ponies. For 1960, the “Big-Dog” Oliver 1900 went with the GM 4-53, which had a similar total displacement as the 3-71, but used four cylinders of 53 cubic inches each to make a 212 ci displacement (versus using three 71 ci cylinders for 213 ci.) If you didn’t know GM’s whiz-bang method for engine designation, now you do!

The GM 53 Series, 2-stroke diesels appeared in late 1958 as an evolution of the similar 51 Series that had debuted a few years earlier. Like their earlier brethren and the original 71 Series that dated back to 1938, these tractors were naturally aspirated, loop-scavenged, 2-stroke diesels that were modular and came in two, three, and four-cylinder inline configurations. The 53 series added Vee configurations as well, including 6V, 8V and even a few 12V engines. The 53 Series became as respected as the legendary 71 Series and lived on to the end of the 2-strokes in the mid 1990s, when they died from not being emissions-friendly enough.

“When Oliver decided to tap the high horsepower diesel market, they went with GM’s 2-stroke diesels.”

The 4-53 came with 2-valve or 4-valve heads. The 4-valve heads could generate more power in the applications where it was needed due to the increased ability to vacate exhaust gasses. We could not determine 100 percent whether the Olivers used 2-or 4-valve heads, but 4-valves were better at keeping EGT down with high loads, and that seems the likely choice. Remember, there are no intake valves on a GM 2-stroke and the air comes from the blower via ports in the cylinder liner. The valves are only used for exhaust. The blower is constantly pushing air, so with the exhaust valves open and the intake ports exposed by the piston at BDC, the cylinder is cleared rapidly.

The early 1900s used a first generation 4-53 with a 17:1 compression ratio that made 89 PTO hp (about 100 flywheel). In ’62, with the 1900 B models, they upgraded to the 4-53N, which had a 21:1 compression ratio and, with other minor tweaks, developed a 100 PTO hp (about 108 hp flywheel) at the typical 2200 rpm tractor rating. With a 2800 rpm rating, as seen on many on-road or marine units, the 4-53N made 120 net hp at the flywheel.

By 1970, the GM (then called Detroit Diesel) 4-53 had a turbocharger (becoming the 4-53T) and was making around 140 hp for 2200 rpm applications like tractors and up to 170 hp with big injectors for road going equipment or marine applications. The GMs were gone from Oliver at this point, but there are old Ollie GMs with 4-53T retrofits.

In ’62, Oliver debuted a four-wheel drive option in both the 1800 and 1900 diesel tractors. These axles used planetary gears in the hubs, and there were several tire options to suit the operator. When comparing the Nebraska Test drawbar horsepower of a two versus a four-wheel drive 1900 (same PTO power), the four-wheeler comes out only a little ahead (about 5 hp). Comparing maximum drawbar pull, the four-wheeler was way ahead on the Nebraska tests, cranking out 16,991 lbs at full power (14.6 percent tire slip) versus 13,471 lbs at the same slip. Since the Nebraska drawbar tests were done on a concrete pad, the advantages of the extra driving wheels was not as apparent as it would be in the field, and the 4-by would have a huge advantage in dirt by being able to split the traction torque to four drivers rather than two. The four wheeler could also generate more pull with less wheel slip for better fuel economy, especially at high drawbar loads. Plus, with larger tires all around, it had better flotation on softer ground. It was an expensive option, usually about 30 percent more (a ’63 1900 with four wheel drive was about $13K), so it wasn’t purchased on a whim.

The standard transmission was a 6-speed mechanical unit, but an optional two-speed partial power shift doubled the gearing choices. The four-wheel drive was a part-time system with a single-speed, “in-or-out” control. Power steering was standard for the four-wheel drive with two hydraulic cylinders on the axle. Olivers were about average for the era in terms of driver comfort, with a suspended seat and a good control layout.

“The GM 2-stokes used unit injectors that generated their own pressure via the camshaft, and that’s why you don’t see injector lines or a pump.”

For 1965, the 1900 GM became the 1950 GM, with a few cosmetic and comfort improvements and a 5-hp boost in PTO power. Jimmy stopped screaming at Oliver in 1967, when the 1950-T tractor debuted with a turbocharged six-cylinder Waukesha 4-stroke that made 105 PTO hp (same as the last GM) from 310 ci and used a gallon-per-hour less fuel at the same output. The GM 2-strokes have earned endless respect for their high power output and reliability, but most farmers were not sad to see them go. On an open tractor, 10 hours of Jimmy screaming was enough to turn your brain to Jello. DW

Engine: 4-cylinder diesel, GM 4-53N Displacement: 212 ci
Bore & Stroke: 3.875 x 4.5 in.
*Rated Power: 100.62 hp @ 2200 rpm
Flywheel Power: 120 hp @ 2800 rpm (SAE Net)
Flywheel Torque: 270 lbs-ft @ 1800 rpm
Compression Ratio: 21:1
Transmission: 12-speed (6×2)
Weight: 12,905 lbs
Tires: Front: 13.6-28
Rear: 24.5-32
*Fuel Consumption: 7.46 GPH at full power
*Drawbar Pull: 16,991 lbs w 14.59% slip
*Top Speed: 15.34 mph

*As Rated by Nebraska tractor Test 847

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How did the mergers under White Motor Corporation lead to the formation of the White Farm Equipment Company?

In 1969, White Motor Corporation undertook strategic mergers that were pivotal in establishing the White Farm Equipment Company. By uniting its subsidiaries, namely Oliver and Minneapolis-Moline, White Motor Corporationeffectively consolidated its resources and expertise. This merger enabled the corporation to streamline its operations and enhance its competitive edge in the agricultural equipment industry. The newly formed entity was headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, marking a significant transition and expansion in White Motor Corporation’s business endeavors. This union played a crucial role in shaping the company’s future and fortifying its market presence during that era.

What acquisitions did White Motor Corporation make in the 1960s?

In the dynamic decade of the 1960s, White Motor Corporation made several strategic acquisitions. In 1960, the company expanded its portfolio by acquiring the Oliver Corporation, integrating it as a fully owned subsidiary. Moving forward in 1962, White Motor broadened its reach by taking over Cockshutt of Canada. The acquisition spree continued in 1963 with the addition of Minneapolis-Moline to their holdings. These acquisitions marked a period of significant growth and expansion for White Motor Corporation.

When did the last Oliver green tractor roll off the assembly line, and what was its model designation?

The final tractor painted in the distinctive Oliver green exited the production line in 1976. This last model carried the 2255 designation.

What happened to the Oliver brand under White Motor Corporation’s ownership?

Under the ownership of White Motor Corporation, the Oliver brand underwent several significant transformations. Initially, in 1960, White Motors expanded its portfolio by acquiring the Oliver Corporation. This move was part of a broader strategy to integrate various agricultural machinery companies.

Following this, White Motors continued to expand by acquiring additional brands, including Cockshutt of Canada in 1962, and Minneapolis-Moline in 1963. By 1969, White Motors decided to streamline their operations and combined Oliver with Minneapolis-Moline, forming the White Farm Equipment Company, stationed in Oak Brook, Illinois. This consolidation marked the end of Oliver functioning independently.

The parent corporation, White Motor, retained control of the farm equipment operations until 1980, when it chose to sell this division to another entity, TIC. The automotive arm of the company was sold the following year to Volvo. Despite these changes, the production of Oliver tractors continued until 1976, with the final model identified by the 2255 designation. This marked the end of an era for tractors bearing the Oliver name.

What was James Oliver’s contribution to the agricultural equipment industry?

James Oliver made a significant impact on the agricultural equipment industry with his innovative development of the chilled plow. In 1855, Oliver began his journey by acquiring a share in a small foundry near South Bend, Indiana.

Two years later, he patented a plow with an enhanced hard outer layer known as the chilled plow. This innovation was particularly valuable as it efficiently operated in tough, sticky soils and offered increased durability compared to existing designs. The improved performance and sturdiness of Oliver’s plow led to widespread adoption internationally, transforming agricultural practices globally and positioning him as a prominent figure in plow manufacturing.

How did Cletrac’s acquisition by Oliver Corporation affect its production?

When the Oliver Corporation acquired Cletrac in 1944, it marked a significant shift in Cletrac’s production landscape. This transition allowed the continuation of crawler production under new management, but it also set the stage for future changes.

Following the acquisition, Cletrac continued to produce its well-known line of crawlers, ensuring their place in both domestic and international markets. Notably, the full range of models, from nine to 100 horsepower, remained in production, maintaining the brand’s reputation for versatility and strength.

However, it wasn’t until 1962 that a more substantial change occurred. The White Motor Corporation’s purchase of Oliver led to another strategic relocation. This move shifted crawler production to Charles City, Iowa. Despite remaining operational for a couple more years, the decision to relocate foreshadowed the eventual discontinuation of crawler production in 1965.

In essence, the acquisition by Oliver and subsequent events under White Motor’s ownership gradually tapered off Cletrac’s crawler production, aligning it with broader corporate strategies rather than the brand’s original trajectory.

How did the Hart-Parr Company evolve into the Oliver Farm Equipment Company?

The evolution of the Hart-Parr Company into the Oliver Farm Equipment Company unfolded through a strategic merger. In 1929, Hart-Parr, known for its innovative agricultural machinery, joined forces with another industry leader, the Oliver Chilled Plow Works. This partnership combined their strengths and expertise, leading to the formation of a new entity, the Oliver Farm Equipment Company. By leveraging the combined resources and legacies of both original companies, the new organization positioned itself to better serve the farming community with a wider array of advanced equipment solutions.

What was Cletrac’s role in the production of crawler tractors?

Cletrac played a significant role in the development and manufacture of crawler tractors throughout the early to mid-20th century. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, the company was known for producing a diverse lineup of crawler tractors, catering to both domestic and international markets. Their models spanned a wide horsepower spectrum, starting at a modest nine horsepower and going up to a robust 100 horsepower.

In 1944, the company underwent a change in ownership but continued its legacy of crawler production until 1962. Later, production was relocated to Charles City, Iowa, where it persisted until 1965. Over the years, Cletrac was responsible for the creation of roughly 75 distinct crawler models, establishing itself as a significant player in the crawler tractor industry.

What was the outcome of Oliver’s experimentation with tractor development in the 1920s?

In the 1920s, Oliver embarked on a new venture by tinkering with tractor designs, ultimately crafting what came to be known as the “Chilled Plow Tractor.” This innovative creation was a significant step for Oliver, yet the project produced only a single, rare example that survives to this day.

Shortly after this experimentation, a pivotal merger occurred. Oliver joined forces with Hart-Parr, a company with a strong foothold in the tractor industry. This strategic alliance infused Oliver’s initial ideas from the Chilled Plow Tractor with Hart-Parr’s seasoned expertise. As a result, they launched a new line of tractors, integrating the strengths and innovations of both companies.

What changes occurred in the Oliver Corporation in 1944?

In 1944, the Oliver Farm Equipment Company underwent a significant transformation when it rebranded as the Oliver Corporation. This change marked a pivotal shift in the company’s identity and direction. By evolving from a farm equipment enterprise to a more diversified corporation, it aimed to expand its reach and adapt to a broader market. The rebranding reflected an effort to modernize and align with contemporary business strategies, positioning the company for future growth and innovation in various industries.

How did the Oliver Chilled Plow Works impact the global plow market?

The introduction of the chilled plow in 1857 revolutionized the global plow market by offering a solution to the difficulties posed by heavy, sticky soils. This innovation featured a robust outer layer that enhanced its durability and efficiency, enabling it to scour through challenging terrain with ease. As a result, the plow quickly gained global recognition, leading to widespread production and distribution.

The surge in demand for these plows catalyzed significant changes in agricultural practices, setting new standards for wearability and performance. This advancement not only established a reputation for high-quality plow production but also spurred other manufacturers to improve their designs to match these new benchmarks. In turn, this competitive pressure accelerated advancements within the industry, underscoring the profound impact of the chilled plow on agricultural technology worldwide.

What range of products did the Oliver Farm Equipment Company offer to farmers?

The Oliver Farm Equipment Company provided farmers with a comprehensive selection of agricultural machinery to support various stages of crop production. Their offerings included robust tractors for versatile farm work. They also supplied essential tillage tools to prepare the soil effectively, planting equipment to sow seeds efficiently, and sophisticated harvesting machines to ensure a smooth and productive harvest.

How did the merger of Hart-Parr and Oliver Chilled Plow Works influence their product line?

The merger between Oliver Chilled Plow Works and Hart-Parr led to a significant transformation in their product line. By combining their resources, they capitalized on Oliver’s innovative designs and Hart-Parr’s established expertise in tractor manufacturing.

This synergy resulted in a new generation of tractors that integrated Oliver’s cutting-edge features with Hart-Parr’s proven technologies. The collaboration allowed them to enhance the performance and reliability of their machinery, reflecting the strengths of both companies.

Ultimately, this strategic alliance enabled them to expand their offerings and serve a broader range of agricultural needs, setting a new standard in the industry.

What significant changes occurred within the Hart-Parr Company in 1917?

In 1917, the Hart-Parr Company underwent a notable transformation when co-founder Charles Hart decided to part ways with the company. This departure marked a significant shift in the leadership dynamics. Charles Parr, the other co-founder, continued his involvement with the business, guiding it through subsequent evolutions.

What was the origin and initial focus of the Hart-Parr Company?

The Origin and Initial Focus of the Hart-Parr Company

Foundation and Relocation

The Hart-Parr Company began its journey as the Hart-Parr Engine Works, established by pioneers Charles Hart and Charles Parr. Initially set up in Madison, Wisconsin, their ambition soon demanded a broader horizon. By , the company had relocated to Charles City, Iowa, marking the start of a significant chapter in their history.

Pioneering in Tractor Production

Winter of 1901-1902 was pivotal, as it was during this time that Hart-Parr produced their inaugural gas traction engine. Their groundbreaking work laid the foundation for what would come next — a successful foray into mass-producing these machines.

Innovation and Industry Milestone

Through their ingenuity, Hart and Parr not only revolutionized engine manufacturing but also enriched the English lexicon. They are widely recognized for coining the term ‘tractor,’ marking a monumental shift in agricultural machinery and terminology.

In summary, the Hart-Parr Company was born out of innovation and the quest for modernizing agricultural tasks, cementing its influence in both industrial progress and language.

What companies merged to form the Oliver Farm Equipment Company in 1929?

In 1929, the Oliver Farm Equipment Company came into existence through the union of four pioneering companies. These were Hart-Parr Tractor Works, Nichols & Shepard, Oliver Chilled Plow Works, and the American Seeding Company. By combining their expertise and resources, these companies laid the foundation for what would become a formidable entity in farm equipment manufacturing.

What challenges did Hart-Parr face during World War I, and how did it affect their operations?

During World War I, Hart-Parr encountered significant hurdles that adversely affected their operations. The company’s efforts to pivot their production lines towards munitions manufacturing did not go as planned.

Key Challenges:

1. Retooling Costs:Switching from their primary focus to war-related production required substantial investments. These financial demands stretched their resources thin.
2. Financial Losses:Despite their attempts to support wartime efforts, the financial returns did not meet expectations. The gap between the costs of redefinition and actual profits led to considerable monetary losses.
3. Disruption in Core Business:By diverting attention and resources to munitions, their primary operations in machinery took a backseat. This disruption further compounded their operational struggles.

In essence, the strategic shift Hart-Parr undertook during this global conflict, rather than boosting profitability, strained their finances and disrupted their regular business trajectory.