A brief introduction of Allis Chalmers 4W-220 Tractor

As  an enthusiast of agricultural machinery , I’m delighted to present an in-depth analysis of the Allis Chalmers 4W-220 tractor.

This classic four – wheel – drive tractor holds a significant place in the history of agricultural machinery.

In this article, we will comprehensively explore its technical parameters, functional features, and its value in agricultural production.

We’ll examine its engine performance, transmission system, hydraulic system, operational characteristics, and historical background from multiple dimensions to provide you with a complete technical profile of this iconic agricultural machine.

Overview and Historical Background

The Allis Chalmers 4W – 220 is a medium – sized four – wheel – drive tractor launched by the American Allis Chalmers Company in the mid – 20th century.

It belongs to the company’s renowned “4W” series.

This tractor was widely popular in farms at that time due to its reliability and versatility, becoming the preferred power machine for many family farms and small commercial farms.

Allis Chalmers Company was known for its innovative design of agricultural machinery, and the 4W – 220 tractor was a manifestation of this innovative spirit.

The design of this tractor integrated the most advanced technologies of that era, including a fully hydraulic steering system, power take – off (PTO), and a variable – speed hydraulic system.

Compared with two – wheel – drive tractors of the same period, the four – wheel – drive system of the 4W – 220 provided excellent traction and stability, especially suitable for operations on wet, hilly, or rugged terrain.

This design made the tractor perform exceptionally well when pulling heavy farm implements or working on steep slopes, greatly improving agricultural production efficiency.

Allis Chalmers 4W-220 Technical Parameters

Engine Performance

Engine Type

The 4W – 220 is equipped with a four – cylinder diesel engine.

This type of engine was chosen for its balance between power output and fuel efficiency, which was crucial for long – term agricultural operations.

Displacement

The engine displacement is approximately 4.2 liters. This displacement allows the engine to generate sufficient power to drive the tractor and its attached implements.

Power Output

It delivers a power output of around 65 horsepower (hp).

This power is adequate for a wide range of farming tasks, from plowing fields to operating various farm machinery.

Torque

The engine produces a torque of about 250 N·m. High torque is essential for tasks that require pulling heavy loads, such as pulling a plow through tough soil.

Transmission System

Transmission Type

The tractor features a manual transmission with 8 forward and 2 reverse gears.

This transmission system provides a wide range of speed options, allowing the operator to adjust the tractor’s speed according to the specific task and terrain conditions.

Clutch

It is equipped with a dry, single – plate clutch.

This type of clutch is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance.

It allows the operator to smoothly engage and disengage the engine from the transmission.

Hydraulic System

Hydraulic Pump

The 4W – 220 has a hydraulic pump with a flow rate of approximately 25 liters per minute.

This flow rate ensures that the hydraulic system can operate various implements efficiently.

Hydraulic Control Valve

It is fitted with a three – position hydraulic control valve.

This valve allows the operator to control the lifting and lowering of the tractor’s implement, as well as adjust the height of the implement during operation.

Functional Features

Four – Wheel – Drive System

The four – wheel – drive system is one of the most prominent features of the 4W – 220.

Unlike two – wheel – drive tractors, all four wheels of the 4W – 220 are powered, which significantly improves traction.

This is particularly beneficial when working on wet, muddy, or hilly terrain.

The system ensures that the tractor can maintain good grip on the ground, reducing the risk of getting stuck and allowing it to pull heavy implements more effectively.

Power Take – Off (PTO)

The power take – off (PTO) is a crucial component that allows the tractor to power various farm implements.

The 4W – 220 has a 540 rpm PTO, which is a standard speed for many agricultural implements.

This PTO can be easily engaged and disengaged by the operator, making it convenient to switch between different tasks.

For example, it can power a rotary tiller for soil preparation or a hay baler for harvesting hay.

Hydraulic System

The hydraulic system of the 4W – 220 is highly versatile. It can be used to operate a wide range of implements, such as front – end loaders, backhoes, and various types of plows.

The three – position hydraulic control valve allows the operator to precisely control the movement of the implement, which is essential for tasks that require accuracy, such as planting crops or spreading fertilizer.

Comfortable Operator Station

The operator station of the 4W – 220 is designed with the operator’s comfort in mind.

It features a comfortable seat that can be adjusted to suit the operator’s height and preferences.

The steering wheel is easy to operate, and the pedals are well – positioned for easy access.

The dashboard is equipped with various gauges that provide real – time information about the tractor’s performance, such as engine speed, fuel level, and hydraulic pressure.

Versatility

The 4W – 220 is a versatile tractor that can be used for a wide range of agricultural tasks.

It can be used for plowing, harrowing, planting, harvesting, and transporting materials.

Its ability to attach various implements makes it a valuable asset for any farm, whether it is a small family farm or a larger commercial operation.

Allis Chalmers 4W-220 Specification

Here are its key specifications:

Engine and Power

Engine: 7.0L (426 cu in) 6-cylinder diesel engine
Horsepower: 220 hp (164.1 kW)
PTO Power (claimed): 180 hp (134.2 kW)
Bore x Stroke: 4.25 x 5.00 inches

Transmission

20-speed two-speed power shift transmission

Hydraulics

Type: Closed center load-sensing system

Number of valves: 3

SCV (Selective Control Valve) flow: 21 gallons per minute (79.5 liters per minute)

Total hydraulic flow: 74.9 gallons per minute (283.5 liters per minute)

Drive and Brakes

Four-wheel drive with planetary final drives
Wet disc brakes

Dimensions and Weight

Wheelbase: 126 inches (320 cm)
Length: 129.4 inches (328 cm)
Height (hood): 86.6 inches (219 cm)
Height (cab): 129.4 inches (328 cm)
Weight: 21,475 lbs (9,741 kg)

Tires

Front tires: 18.4×38
Rear tires: 18.4×38

Fuel and Electrical

Fuel tank capacity: 200 gallons (757 liters)
Electrical system: 12-volt negative ground with alternator charging

Cab and Comfort

Standard cab with air conditioning

PTO and Hitch

Rear PTO: Independent, 1000 RPM (1.75 inch spline)
Rear hitch: Type IV/III optional

Price

Original price around $74,490

The 4W-220 was designed as a high-horsepower utility tractor with strong hydraulics and durable four-wheel drive capabilities, suitable for heavy fieldwork and large implements.

Conclusion

The Allis Chalmers 4W – 220 is a classic agricultural tractor that combines reliable performance, advanced technology, and versatility.

Its technical parameters, such as engine power, transmission system, and hydraulic system, make it suitable for a wide range of farming tasks.

The functional features, including the four – wheel – drive system, PTO, and hydraulic system, further enhance its capabilities.

Although it was produced in the mid – 20th century, the 4W – 220 still holds a special place in the hearts of many farmers and agricultural enthusiasts.

It represents a period of innovation in agricultural machinery and continues to be a testament to the ingenuity of the Allis Chalmers Company.