Motor Grader AD-3 or BD-3

hard to tell from the picture, but I am leaning toward Ad-3. both models were available with 3-71 Detroit. AD has 10 inch pipe frame and if I remember correctly, 122 inch circle for blade. BD should be 8 inch pipe and smaller circle, cant remember exactly. Don't have Norms book on me at work, can look this evening.

tag under cab on right should have model and serial #

the shifter setup is different on BD than AD also but no pic of inside cab

Edited by CAL(KS) - 28 Oct 2015 at 12:00pm

More grader photos:












Brakes:







Thanks!


Edited by DJS - 29 Nov 2015 at 8:55pm

We had a similar grader at my first civilian employer after Army, those dog clutch controls were unforgiving if try to feather in, hand bruisers number one!!

Thanks so much for all the input.  its been really helpful.  So we are thinking that its a 1946 AD-3 motor grader.  We plan on restoring her and using it in the subdivision here.     I drove her 12 miles across the desert last weekend. The seller just put 4 new tires on her. She purred all the way home. I will keep you guys updated on our new money pit.


Edited by DJS - 29 Nov 2015 at 8:57pm

That works for me, Diy Dave.  I didn't even think about that. I found two AD graders for parts for cheap, but there to far from here.  So we are going to try to hunt one down with in a coupe hundred miles from here.  I am replacing the wiring and adding lights now.   

That is one very nice looking grader !! Keep us posted on your progress.

Where abouts in AZ are ya?  I'm in the Safford area.  We have an AD3 as well.  They're fun to run!

Don't need brakes, just drop the blade...

I had 2 BD-3's , both had 3-71 Detroits in them.---also had a 45 stolen from me a few years ago too!--it had the 516 motor with a jimmy super-charger on it! ( never did see it again)--it was a 1960 model! thanks; ac fleet

I also have an ad 30 up here in oregon, got it on trade for an old jeep I had sitting around. Has 6 brand new tires and chains to go with them, waiting for my Manuel to show up so I can change all her fluids. I know the motor takes 30 weight and 80/90 gear oil in chain case for wheels, but other than that I'm clueless does it take standard hydraulic oil for control valves in cab? I removed plug on top and fluid is nasty, checked rear end and oil is nasty as well was wondering if anybody could tell me what oil or fluid is needed for a complete service? Also I would like to purchase u joint assemblies as when im.plowing snow it would be easier and faster to just pull 2 bolts and done. And yes mine needs brakes as well lol

The supercharger on an AC Forty Five was made by Sweitzer.  It is cast iron and heavy.

Edited by Ian Beale - 14 Nov 2021 at 3:58pm