Maintaining the Fiat-Allis 65B Motor Grader in a Modern Fleet

[MikePhua]

The Fiat-Allis Legacy and the 65B’s Role in Roadwork
The Fiat-Allis 65B motor grader is a product of a historic collaboration between Fiat of Italy and Allis-Chalmers of the United States. This partnership, which began in the 1970s, produced a range of earthmoving equipment that combined European design sensibilities with American mechanical robustness. The 65B was introduced as a mid-sized grader, ideal for municipal road maintenance, rural grading, and light construction work.
With an operating weight around 14,000 to 16,000 pounds and a blade width typically between 10 and 12 feet, the 65B was designed for maneuverability and simplicity. It featured a mechanical transmission, hydraulic blade controls, and a straightforward diesel powertrain—often powered by Fiat’s own 6-cylinder engines or Perkins alternatives depending on market and year.
Though production ceased decades ago, the 65B remains in service in many parts of North America, especially in small towns and private landowner fleets. Its mechanical layout and lack of electronic systems make it a favorite among operators who value repairability over automation.
Understanding the Transmission and Hydraulic Oil Requirements
One of the most important aspects of maintaining a Fiat-Allis 65B is selecting the correct transmission and hydraulic oil. The original manuals specify TO-2 or C-3 rated oil, typically in a 10W viscosity. These specifications were designed to meet the needs of older torque converter and hydraulic systems, ensuring proper lubrication, pressure stability, and seal compatibility.
TO-2 (Transmission Oil Type 2) was a Caterpillar specification used widely across older construction equipment. C-3 was an Allison Transmission standard for powershift systems. Both are now considered obsolete, but modern equivalents exist.
Recommendations for oil selection:

• Use a modern universal tractor transmission oil (UTTO) that meets or exceeds TO-2/C-3 specs
  
• For colder climates, stick with 10W or 15W oils to ensure cold-start flow
  
• In warmer regions, 20W may be acceptable, but verify against pump tolerances and startup behavior
  
• Avoid multi-viscosity oils unless specifically approved for older hydraulic systems
  

A common concern is whether using 20W oil in place of 10W will damage the transmission. In most cases, the difference is negligible for hydraulic circuits, but transmission clutches and torque converters may respond differently. If the machine is used seasonally or in high-load applications, erring on the side of manufacturer recommendations is wise.
Fluid Change Strategy and Preventative Maintenance
When acquiring a used grader like the 65B, a full fluid change is essential. This includes:

• Transmission/hydraulic reservoir
  
• Engine oil and filter
  
• Differential and final drive oil
  
• Cooling system flush and refill
  
• Fuel system inspection and filter replacement
  

Before draining the transmission, inspect the fluid for signs of contamination—metallic particles, burnt odor, or water intrusion. If the machine has sat idle for years, consider flushing with a low-viscosity cleaning oil before refilling with service-grade lubricant.
Additional maintenance tips:

• Replace all filters with OEM or high-quality aftermarket equivalents
  
• Inspect hydraulic hoses for dry rot and cracking
  
• Check blade lift and articulation cylinders for seal leaks
  
• Grease all pivot points and blade slide rails
  
• Verify tire pressure and inspect for sidewall cracking
  

Field Anecdotes and Operator Experience
A retired firefighter in Texas recently helped his local POA acquire a Fiat-Allis 65B for road maintenance. After downloading the manuals and preparing for a full fluid change, he questioned whether 20W oil would be safe for the transmission. His concern reflects a broader truth: older machines require thoughtful care, especially when modern fluids differ from original specs.
In another case, a grader operator in Alberta used a 65B for snow removal and gravel grading. He found that switching to synthetic hydraulic oil improved cold-weather performance, but only after replacing several seals that had hardened over time. His advice: “Don’t just change the oil—change the mindset. These machines were built for a different era.”
Parts Availability and Long-Term Support
Fiat-Allis ceased grader production decades ago, and parts sourcing can be a challenge. However, many components—especially filters, seals, and hydraulic fittings—are standardized and available through industrial suppliers. For proprietary parts like blade lift cylinders or transmission internals, salvage yards and specialty rebuilders may be the only option.
Suggestions for sourcing:

• Document casting numbers and part codes during disassembly
  
• Join vintage equipment forums and owner groups for leads
  
• Consider reverse-engineering non-critical components
  
• Keep a logbook of fluid types, service intervals, and modifications
  

Conclusion
The Fiat-Allis 65B motor grader is a testament to durable, no-nonsense engineering. While fluid specifications like TO-2 and C-3 may be outdated, modern equivalents allow these machines to continue working reliably. With careful oil selection, thorough maintenance, and a respect for mechanical simplicity, the 65B can remain a valuable tool for roadwork and land management. In a world of sensors and screens, it reminds us that steel, hydraulics, and a skilled operator are still the foundation of earthmoving.