Would you believe me if I told you that it was a coincidence that we have two articles heavily featuring the development of Ford tractors?
This isn’t a complaint, of course. I’m a fan of having a thematic connection between the articles in Farm Collector. Further, as an automotive enthusiast (a “petrolhead” in U.K. terms), Ford is an interesting topic. Considering the Model T was a cornerstone in automotive history and the Mustang is one of the most iconic cars of all time, I think my interest is understandable.
For this issue of Farm Collector, I have Josephine Roberts to thank for our title and cover. As a U.K.-based vintage tractor enthusiast and writer, she’s covered many of the Ford and Fordson tractors that were (and still are) popular in their market. Her latest “Tales from Wales” covers the Fordson Major, which is still a common highlight at U.K. farm and tractor shows. The Major’s popularity is certainly warranted, considering the many variants built from it. You can read the full story in “The Major Influence.”
Barry Thomas, our go-to Farm Truck expert, brought me a unique story for this issue. In his research, he learned about the tractor tester Fred Stobbe, who was involved in the development of machines for Ford, Ferguson, and Willys Overland. His research led to an excellent article on a seldom-credited voice who helped make many iconic machines. Read the full story of Fred Stobbe in “The Tractor Tester.”
Taking a departure from talk of Ford, Fred Hendricks’ story (Old-Fashioned Farm Equipment) features some properly old-fashioned farm equipment. While Merve Yoder’s entire collection is impressive, one item stands out: his dog treadmill. Walking your dog using a treadmill seems like an incredibly modern idea. However, Merve’s treadmill is undeniably vintage, and his dog seems to love it. And yes, we do have pictures of Teddy the dog on his treadmill.
We have two solid articles for you restoration enthusiasts as well. A new writer for Farm Collector, who goes by the moniker “Running Bear,” tackled the restoration of an Oliver plow. Though not new to restoration, Running Bear had never worked on a plow before. See the results for yourself in “Oliver Plowmaster 100 Restoration.”
The other of our restoration articles technically falls more into the repair category. Engine expert Dr. David Cave covers 3D printing with a special emphasis on making a 3D printer useful in creating a magnet for your engine. You can read his expert advice in “3D Print an Engine Magnet.”
All this talk of Ford has the Petrol Head in me itching for a very particular article. I wonder if I can find a good story on a vintage Lamborghini tractor. I’ll think about that while you go and read the rest of this issue.
Until next time
