Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory Offered Early Consumer Protection

1 / 2
The Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory logo.
The Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory logo.
2 / 2
A restored Ford Model B seen several years ago at the Tri-State Tractor & Gas Engine Assn. Show in Portland, Ind.
A restored Ford Model B seen several years ago at the Tri-State Tractor & Gas Engine Assn. Show in Portland, Ind.

The Nebraska Tractor Test
Laboratory has tested more than 1,750 tractor models since it was officially
organized in 1919, when the Nebraska Legislature passed a bill ensuring that:

• A stock tractor of each model sold in the state is tested and approved by a
board of three engineers under state university management.

• Each company, dealer or individual offering a tractor for sale in Nebraska is required to
have a permit.

• A service station with a full supply of replacement parts for each model of
tractor shall be maintained.

Testing
activities were assigned to the University’s Department of Agricultural
Engineering. In 1920 the Waterloo Boy was the first tractor tested by the new
laboratory. About 160 tractor manufacturers were operating in the U.S. at that
time. Completing testing kept the laboratory very busy. By 1930, 172 tractors
had been evaluated by the laboratory. FC

Read more about the Ford Model B in The Fraudulent Ford Model B and Unanswered Questions for Ford Model B.

  • Published on Dec 4, 2012
Online Store Logo
Need Help? Call 1-866-624-9388