Homestead mailing list

[Roy Morgan <k1lky AT earthlink.net>]

On May 10, 2008, at 9:17 PM, Marie McHarry wrote:
> > Does anyone know much about a 1950 International Harvester H-4
> > tractor?  ...
> My father always had Allis-Chalmers tractors, but the new tractor,
> when he finally more or less retired, was at least 25 years old.

We've heard stories like this from many quarters.

> ... At least one of the old
> tractors runs fine too. Tractors that old are relatively easy to
> maintain and don't really wear out.

Indeed.  The modern Kobuka or whatever they are, costs $20,000 for a  
medium-small one, and you have to send to the Pacific Rim for the  
computerized controllers when anything quits.  Not for me!

There is a lively and strong community keeping old tractors running.  
I worked with a fellow who is now making in his home shop piston  
sleeve puller/inserter tools and the like for tractors made in the  
1940's or earlier.  He also makes a big pin and plate thing that  
allows attachment of front end implements.

On the way home yesterday, I passed a used car/truck dealer who had  
three medium sized tractors on the lot. I did not stop, but it  
encouraged me to think that there may well be a good selection of  
tractors available for modest money that would respond well to my  
attention in the shop.

Not long ago, I retrieved the late 40's copy of the Disney Uncle  
Remus Stories I had as a kid.  In one story the fox gets ready to  
fling Br'er rabbit into the briar patch.  "Oh NO!  Not the Briar  
Patch.  Don' fling me in THERE!" the rabbit begs.

Roy


Roy Morgan
k1lky AT earthlink.net
Lovettsville, VA 20180