A common question/problem people have with the Allis-Chalmers D-17 is identifying the differences between the 4 production series that were made. There are certain cosmetic and operational features that switched between each production. While cosmetic details can betray the untrained eye, the mechanical features don’t lie. Let’s take a look at the differences so that you will be better educated on the D-17 Series I, II,III & IV.
Series I
The D-17 Series I (Never officially designated that) was introduced in the fall of 1957. There were 2 different cosmetic looks in the 1st series of the D-17. Production of Series I started at serial no. 1001 and ended at 31625 in 1960
Cosmetic Characteristics
- Persian Orange #1 Paint
- Silver Decals (oval decal) 1957-1959
- Orange Grill 1957-1958
- Black Boarder and Bar Grill with Black and White Decal 1959-1960
- Lights Radiator Shell
- Round Muffler
- Metal Seat
- Black Steering Wheel
Mechanical
- Snap Coupler Hitch
- Oil Bath Air-Cleaner
- High Pressure Hydraulic Pump on Main Drive Line
Series II
The D-17 Series II, (again, never officially designated) came out in 1960. Production started at serial no. 32001 and ended with 41540 in 1962.
Cosmetic
- Persian Orange #2 Paint
- Cream Paint on Wheels, Grill & Steering Wheel
- Headlights on Grill Shell
- Tin Nameplate.
- Metal Seat
Mechanical
- Snap Coupler Hitch
- Oil Bath Air-Cleaner
- High Pressure Hydraulic Pump on Main Drive Line
Series III
The D-17 Series III was introduced in 1962. This was the first time the “Series” designation was put on the tractor. The previous two production series were unofficially coined Series I & II. Production started with serial no. 42001 and ended with 72768 in 1964.
Cosmetic
- Persian Orange #2 Paint
- Long Cream Hood Decal
- Series III Designation
- Headlights on Fenders
- Oval Shaped Muffler
- Seat Cushion
Mechanical
- Snap Coupler Hitch
- Dry Air-Cleaner
- High Pressure Hydraulic Pump on Main Drive Line
- Power-Director Oil Filter and Lines.
- Heavier Front Axle
Series IV
The D-17 Series IV was the 4th and final installment of the D-17 line. Production started in 1964 with serial number no. 75001 and ended with 89213 in 1967.
Cosmetic
- Persian Orange #2 Paint
- Long Cream Hood Decal
- Series IV Designation
- Headlights on Fenders
- Oval Shaped Muffler
- Seat Cushion
- Corporate Logo Grill Emblem
Mechanical
- Transmission Housing Cast Modified ( Changed to Accommodate New Drawbar & Hydraulic Setup)
- Hyrdraulic Lift Cylinders Mounted Externally
- Snap Coupler or 3-pt Hitch
- Dry Air-Cleaner
- Live Hydraulic System
- Externally Mounted Hydraulic Pump ( Located on Belt Pulley Outlet)
- Power-Director Oil Filter and Lines.
- Heavier Front Axel (Same as Series III)
Well, I hope I covered things that can help people identify the different series of D-17s. Remember that cosmetic looks are not everything when you look at these tractors! Many people rig stuff on or put decals and other cosmetics from other series. The surest way to know what series you are looking at is by the serial number. The D-17’s serial numbers were located on the left side on the tractor on the torque tube where the torque tube meets the engine. If you don’t know the serial numbers associated with the tractors, look at the mechanical differences too! That will also be a big help. This is not a COMPLETE list of the changes, but it does help one identify some of the differences between the tractors.
Austin M. Frederick 