Allis Chalmers tractors were manufactured in the United States from 1914 to 1985. During this time, Allis Chalmers used specific paint codes to identify the different colors used on their tractors. One of the iconic colors associated with Allis Chalmers tractors is Persian Orange. This bright reddish-orange hue was used on many Allis Chalmers tractor models throughout the company’s history. Determining the specific paint code for Persian Orange on Allis Chalmers tractors requires some research into old paint records and color charts. With some digging, the paint code can be identified.
History of Allis Chalmers Tractors
Allis Chalmers has its origins in the Edward P. Allis Company, which was founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1861. They produced steam engines and other machinery. In 1901, Edward Allis died and his sons took over the company. In 1912, they merged with the Fraser & Chalmers Company to form Allis-Chalmers. The new company went on to become one of the major manufacturers of farming and industrial equipment in America.
Allis-Chalmers began producing tractors in 1914 with the Model 6-12. This was a 12 horsepower crawler-type tractor. Over the next seven decades, Allis Chalmers would manufacture dozens of farm tractor models including the B, C, CA, WC, WD, WF, 170, 175, 180, 185, 190XT, 200, 210, 220 and others. They also produced the iconic All-Crop Harvester series of combines.
In the 1960s and 70s, Allis Chalmers was one of the top five farm tractor manufacturers in the United States. They were known for their bright Persian Orange paint scheme. This distinct color helped make the Allis Chalmers tractors stand out in the fields.
Allis Chalmers Persian Orange
Throughout most of the company’s history, Allis Chalmers painted their tractors in a reddish-orange color that came to be known as Persian Orange. It was a vivid bright orange hue with a slightly red tint. This was adopted as the standard factory color for Allis Chalmers tractors from the 1920s to the 1960s. The eye-catching shade helped the tractors stand out from the competition.
Persian Orange became synonymous with Allis Chalmers. Even after the company began offering tractors in other color options in the 1960s and 70s, Persian Orange remained a popular choice among farmers. It was a unique color that made Allis Chalmers tractors easy to spot. The Persian Orange paint was specially formulated to resist fading and hold its bright color through years of exposure to sunlight and weather.
Identifying the Paint Code
To determine the exact paint code for genuine Allis Chalmers Persian Orange, some research is required. The color formulation likely changed slightly over the decades as technology improved. But original paint records can provide the codes.
Here are some of the known paint codes used for Allis Chalmers Persian Orange over the years:
- 1970s – AC-19025 (Latex enamel)
- 1960s – AC-14096 (Oil-based enamel)
- 1950s – AC-8310 (Enamel)
- 1940s – AC-38329 (Enamel)
- 1930s – AC-2851 (Enamel)
These codes can be used to accurately reproduce the iconic Persian Orange paint for restoration projects on vintage Allis Chalmers tractors. Touch-up paint is available from specialty vendors using these paint codes to precisely match the original Persian Orange color.
The table below summarizes some of the known paint codes used for Persian Orange on Allis Chalmers tractors over the decades:
| Decade | Paint Code | Paint Type |
| 1970s | AC-19025 | Latex enamel |
| 1960s | AC-14096 | Oil-based enamel |
| 1950s | AC-8310 | Enamel |
| 1940s | AC-38329 | Enamel |
| 1930s | AC-2851 | Enamel |
Matching the Original Persian Orange Color
For those looking to paint their classic Allis Chalmers tractor in the iconic Persian Orange, matching the original color is important. In addition to tracking down the right paint code, there are a few other tips for getting an accurate match:
– Use a paint brand designed for farm and industrial equipment for durability and color accuracy. Brands like Martin Senour, AkzoNobel, and Sherwin Williams have paint lines formulated specifically for tractors.
– Look for enamel paint in either oil-based or latex for a glossy, durable finish. Match the paint type to the original.
– Apply primer and paint in multiple coats for proper coverage and brightness of color.
– Carefully prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning to help the paint adhere properly.
– Test spray paint samples before fully painting to ensure you’ve achieved an ideal color match. Adjust if needed.
Taking the time to properly prep the surface and apply quality paint using the precise Persian Orange paint codes will result in a vibrant orange that looks factory fresh.
Conclusion
The iconic Persian Orange paint of Allis Chalmers tractors is an important part of their history and appeal. While the paint formulas changed over the decades, the codes above can be used to identify the correct shades for a given model year. This allows restorers to accurately recreate the eye-catching Persian Orange color that looks like it rolled off the factory floor. Whether touching up a chip or a full repaint, matching the original paint is key to preserving the heritage of these classic American tractors. When properly prepped and painted, they’ll stand out in their bright Persian Orange as a testament to Allis Chalmers’ memorable tractor legacy.
