Oliver 88 Tractor

Manufacturer Oliver
Price 3,000(USD)
Model 88
Equipment Type Row-Crop Tractors
Factory Charles City, Iowa, USA

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 388 2

Description Gasoline 6-speed 2WD/October 20 - 31, 1947/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 388 file/Drawbar performance/Gear 3 used for power test./Gear 1 used for pull test.
Belt power (max) 41.99 hp/31.3 kW
Belt fuel use (max) 3.7 gal/hour/14.0 l/hour
Max power 36.97 hp/27.6 kW
Max pull 5,173 lbs/2346 kg

NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 450 2

Description Diesel 6-speed 2WD/September 25 - October 9, 1950/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 450 file/Drawbar performance/Gear 4 used for power test./Gear 1 used for pull test.
Belt power (max) 43.53 hp/32.5 kW
Belt fuel use (max) 2.9 gal/hour/11.0 l/hour
Max power 38.47 hp/28.7 kW
Max pull 5,869 lbs/2662 kg

OLIVER 88 POWER

Plows 3
Drawbar (tested) 38.47 hp/28.7 kW
Belt (tested) 43.53 hp/32.5 kW

ENGINES OVERVIEW

The Oliver 88 tractor, equipped with either a Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cylinder gasoline or diesel engine, provides versatility and power, delivering approximately 40-45 horsepower. The gasoline variant offers quicker startup and lower initial costs, while the diesel version boasts better fuel efficiency and torque for heavier loads. Potential challenges include limited parts availability for older models and the need for regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Description Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl gasoline/Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl diesel

ENGINE DETAIL 1

The Oliver 88 tractor features a robust 6-cylinder Waukesha gasoline engine with a displacement of 231 ci (3.8 L) and a compression ratio of 6.75:1, providing adequate power for general farming tasks. Its liquid-cooled system with an 18-quart capacity ensures efficient temperature regulation during operations at a rated RPM of 1600, beneficial for sustained performance. However, the oil bath air cleaner requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal airflow and engine performance, which may be a consideration for users in terms of operational upkeep.

Description Waukesha-Oliver/gasoline/6-cylinder/liquid-cooled vertical I-head
Displacement 231 ci/3.8 L
Bore/Stroke 3.50x4.00 inches/89 x 102 mm
Air cleaner oil bath
Compression 6.75:1
Rated RPM 1600
Firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
Coolant capacity 18 qts/17.0 L

ENGINE DETAIL 2

The Oliver 88 features a robust Waukesha 6-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 230.9 ci, ensuring ample torque and power for heavy-duty tasks. Its oil bath air cleaner and 15:1 compression ratio enhance durability and efficiency, although the lower rated RPM of 1600 may limit its performance in high-speed applications. Ideal for farming and industrial uses, this tractor balances fuel economy with the capability to handle demanding loads.

Description Waukesha-Oliver/diesel/6-cylinder/liquid-cooled vertical I-head
Displacement 230.9 ci/3.8 L
Bore/Stroke 3.50x4.00 inches/89 x 102 mm
Air cleaner oil bath
Compression 15.0:1
Rated RPM 1600
Firing order 1-5-3-6-2-4
Starter volts 12

OLIVER 88 ENGINES

The Oliver 88 features a Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cylinder engine, available in both gasoline and diesel variants, providing versatility depending on fuel availability and application. Its 22-gallon fuel tank allows for extended operation, making it suitable for long-duration tasks in agriculture or industrial use. However, potential challenges include managing the weight distribution and power output differences between the gasoline and diesel engines, which may affect operational efficiency based on specific workloads.

Description Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl gasoline/Waukesha-Oliver 3.8L 6-cyl diesel
Fuel tank 22 gal/83.3 L

TRANSMISSION

The Oliver 88 tractor is equipped with a 6-speed forward and 2-speed reverse gear system, providing versatility for varying field conditions. The dry disc clutch offers efficient power transfer; however, it may require more maintenance compared to hydraulic clutches in terms of wear and adjustment. In scenarios that demand frequent directional changes, the gearing system allows for better operational control, making it suitable for both farming and hauling tasks.

Type gear
Gears 6 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch dry disc

MECHANICAL

The Oliver 88 features a 4x2 2WD chassis, enhancing traction on even terrain but limiting performance in muddy or uneven conditions. Its manual steering system provides direct control but requires more effort compared to power steering, particularly during extended operation. The 6-speed transmission offers versatility in speed selection, making it suitable for various field applications, although shifting may require skill for optimal efficiency.

Chassis 4x2 2WD
Steering manual
Cab Open operator station.
Transmission 6-speed gear

POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)

Rear PTO independent
Rear RPM 540

OLIVER 88 TIRES

The Oliver 88 tractor features 16-inch front tires sized at 6.00-16 and rear tires ranging from 11-38 to 12-38, providing a suitable balance between traction and stability for various farming tasks. The larger rear tire dimensions enhance load-bearing capacity, beneficial for plowing and hauling applications, while the front tires ensure maneuverability in tight spaces. However, the limited tire options could restrict adaptability to specific terrains or agricultural practices.

Ag front 6.00-16
Ag rear 11-38/12-38

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 93.75 inches/238 cm
Length 141.875 inches/360 cm
Width 68 inches/172 cm
Height 69 inches/175 cm
Operating weight 5000 lbs/2268 kg
Ballasted weight 8484 lbs/3848 kg
Front tread 8.5/12.1 inches/21/30 cm
Rear tread 47 to 91 inches/119 to 231 cm

DIMENSIONS & TIRES

The Oliver 88 tractor features a relatively long wheelbase of 93.75 inches, providing enhanced stability during operation, particularly when towing heavy implements. Weighing 5000 lbs allows for decent traction, while the tire specifications – 6.00-16 at the front and 11-38 at the rear – suggest a balanced distribution of weight and contact area for various terrain conditions. However, its size may present challenges in maneuverability in tight spaces, making it less suitable for small-scale farming or urban applications.

Wheelbase 93.75 inches/238 cm
Weight 5000 lbs/2268 kg
Front tire 6.00-16
Rear tire 11-38

88 SERIAL NUMBERS

Location Right side of tractor behind the belt pulley or on the lower part of the instrument console.
1947 120001
1948 120353
1949 123301
1950 128653
1951 132863
1952 138184
1953 3500977
1954 4500076


Last Updated 2025-01-01
Stephen is a passionate tractor hobbyist with a deep-seated love for all things mechanized and agricultural. Growing up in a rural setting, he developed a fascination with these mighty machines that have played a crucial role in shaping the farming industry.

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