5 hours ago
The FiatAllis Brand and FG85 Development
FiatAllis was born from the merger of Fiat and Allis-Chalmers in the 1970s, combining European design with American manufacturing strength. The FG85 motor grader emerged during the 1980s as part of their push into mid-size grading equipment. Built for county road maintenance, site prep, and general grading, the FG85 was designed to compete with Caterpillar’s 12G and John Deere’s 670 series. Though never a volume leader, the FG85 earned a reputation for rugged simplicity and affordability.
The FG85 weighed approximately 31,000 lbs and was powered by a Cummins diesel engine rated at 160 horsepower. It featured an articulated frame, hydraulic controls, and a rear-mounted ripper, making it suitable for aggressive grading tasks. While FiatAllis eventually transitioned into New Holland and later CNH Industrial, the FG85 remains a recognizable machine in rural fleets and private contractor yards.
Terminology Clarification
The FG85 was built with enough weight and horsepower to handle demanding grading jobs. Its articulated design allowed tight turns and precise blade control, especially in confined areas. The rear ripper added versatility, enabling operators to loosen hardpan or frost before grading.
In terms of raw specs:
Parts Availability and Support Challenges
One of the main concerns with owning an FG85 today is parts support. Since the model is no longer in production and FiatAllis has undergone multiple corporate transitions, sourcing components can be difficult. Common issues include:
Anecdote from the Field
In Louisiana, a county fleet ran several FG85s for road maintenance. While the machines performed well initially, they began experiencing seal failures on the rear tandems. Heat buildup during summer grading caused the bearings to expand and damage the seals. The local dealer eventually stopped selling the model due to repeated warranty issues. However, one farmer still operates an FG85 for field leveling, noting that with proper maintenance and cooler operating conditions, the machine remains reliable.
Cost Comparison and Value Proposition
For contractors who don’t need daily blade work, the FG85 offers a compelling value. Used units with under 4,000 hours can be found for under $30,000—far below the $120,000 price tag of a high-hour Caterpillar 143H. While it may not match the refinement or resale value of a Cat, the FG85 can perform most grading tasks with competence.
Key advantages:
If considering an FG85:
Conclusion
The FiatAllis FG85 motor grader is a capable, mid-size machine that delivers solid performance for its class. While parts availability and tandem reliability are concerns, its affordability and mechanical simplicity make it a viable option for operators who understand its limitations. With proper care and realistic expectations, the FG85 can still move dirt with authority—proving that not every good grader needs to wear yellow paint.
FiatAllis was born from the merger of Fiat and Allis-Chalmers in the 1970s, combining European design with American manufacturing strength. The FG85 motor grader emerged during the 1980s as part of their push into mid-size grading equipment. Built for county road maintenance, site prep, and general grading, the FG85 was designed to compete with Caterpillar’s 12G and John Deere’s 670 series. Though never a volume leader, the FG85 earned a reputation for rugged simplicity and affordability.
The FG85 weighed approximately 31,000 lbs and was powered by a Cummins diesel engine rated at 160 horsepower. It featured an articulated frame, hydraulic controls, and a rear-mounted ripper, making it suitable for aggressive grading tasks. While FiatAllis eventually transitioned into New Holland and later CNH Industrial, the FG85 remains a recognizable machine in rural fleets and private contractor yards.
Terminology Clarification
- Articulated Frame: A chassis design that allows the front and rear halves of the machine to pivot, improving maneuverability.
- Ripper: A rear-mounted attachment used to break up compacted soil or pavement before grading.
- Final Drives: Gear assemblies at the wheel ends that transmit torque from the transmission.
- Tandems: Paired rear wheels that distribute weight and improve traction.
- Hydraulic Controls: Systems that use fluid pressure to operate blades and attachments.
The FG85 was built with enough weight and horsepower to handle demanding grading jobs. Its articulated design allowed tight turns and precise blade control, especially in confined areas. The rear ripper added versatility, enabling operators to loosen hardpan or frost before grading.
In terms of raw specs:
- Operating weight: ~31,000 lbs
- Engine: Cummins 6BT or similar, 160 hp
- Blade width: Typically 12 feet
- Transmission: Powershift, often Clark-built
- Ripper: 3–5 shank configuration
Parts Availability and Support Challenges
One of the main concerns with owning an FG85 today is parts support. Since the model is no longer in production and FiatAllis has undergone multiple corporate transitions, sourcing components can be difficult. Common issues include:
- Limited availability of tandem bearings and seals
- Hydraulic valve parts requiring custom machining
- Electrical components with outdated connectors
- Cab glass and body panels no longer stocked
Anecdote from the Field
In Louisiana, a county fleet ran several FG85s for road maintenance. While the machines performed well initially, they began experiencing seal failures on the rear tandems. Heat buildup during summer grading caused the bearings to expand and damage the seals. The local dealer eventually stopped selling the model due to repeated warranty issues. However, one farmer still operates an FG85 for field leveling, noting that with proper maintenance and cooler operating conditions, the machine remains reliable.
Cost Comparison and Value Proposition
For contractors who don’t need daily blade work, the FG85 offers a compelling value. Used units with under 4,000 hours can be found for under $30,000—far below the $120,000 price tag of a high-hour Caterpillar 143H. While it may not match the refinement or resale value of a Cat, the FG85 can perform most grading tasks with competence.
Key advantages:
- Lower purchase cost
- Simple mechanical systems
- Adequate power and weight for most jobs
- Articulated frame for tight spaces
- Limited parts support
- Potential tandem overheating
- Less refined cab and controls
If considering an FG85:
- Inspect tandem bearings and seals for heat damage.
- Verify transmission and hydraulic function under load.
- Check for aftermarket support or salvage yard access.
- Avoid Brazilian-built units if possible due to known seal issues.
- Use synthetic gear oil and monitor operating temperatures during summer work.
Conclusion
The FiatAllis FG85 motor grader is a capable, mid-size machine that delivers solid performance for its class. While parts availability and tandem reliability are concerns, its affordability and mechanical simplicity make it a viable option for operators who understand its limitations. With proper care and realistic expectations, the FG85 can still move dirt with authority—proving that not every good grader needs to wear yellow paint.
