Tractor Spotting

E

Allis-Chalmers Models B or C

In profile, the Allis-Chalmers Co. models B and C look very much alike, so either guess is technically correct. Introduced in 1937, at the unheard of price of $495 with rubber tires, the one-row, one-plow Model B was quickly accepted by small-scale farmers everywhere. The slightly more powerful tricycle Model C was introduced in 1940, which offered two-row capability. Model B production ended in 1957, after nearly 140,000 were produced. More than 84,000 Model C tractors were sold between 1940 and 1950, until the Model CA tractor was introduced.

F

Minneapolis-Moline Model RTU Universal

Minneapolis-Moline introduced the 'vision lined' Model RTU, also called the 'Universal,' in 1939. Rated to pull two 12-inch plows, the Model RTU was the first general-purpose tractor in America with an all-season 'Comfort Cab.' In 1940, Minneapolis-Moline offered a specially equipped Model RTU to solve '... the problem of undelivered mail in rural districts.' Equipped with a cab, a high-clearance, wide-front axle, wide-front fenders and racks for carrying mail sacks - as well as a 19-mph top gear - the tractor was said to '... make delivery of mail a pleasant and simple task,' regardless of deep mud or snow. The Model RTU developed 20 drawbar hp at the Nebraska facility and was produced until 1953.

G

J.I. Case Model VAC

Rated as a one- or two-plow machine, the Case V series was introduced in 1940 with a Continental L-head engine. In 1942, the VA series - which used a Case-made OHV engine - replaced the V series. The Model VAC used a tricycle configuration and could handle two-row equipment. The high operator's platform and narrow hood gave the driver good observation for close cultivation of row crops. In addition to the Model VAC row-crop tractor, other designs included a Model VA standard tread, a Model VAO orchard, a Model VAI industrial and a Model VAH high clearance. VA series production ended in 1955.

H

Massey-Harris Pony

The one-row, one-plow Massey-Harris Co. Pony was added to the line-up in 1947, to do '... all jobs on the small farm ... [and to replace] the last team on the large farm.' Built at Massey's Woodstock, Ontario, Canada, factory, more than 27,000 Pony tractors were sold from its 1947 introduction until production ended in 1954. In 1947, a Pony cost $685, although PTO and pulley, starter and lights were extra. Most Pony tractors were painted in traditional Massey-Harris colors, but some were painted Ferguson gray after the 1953 merger of Massey-Harris and Ferguson, Ltd., into Massey Ferguson Co.