Antique Tractors in the History of Making Hay

Antique Tractors in the History of Making Hay

THE NEWBIE - The tractors that we now call “antique” served their owners well in many ways. One of the most important ways was their use in hay harvesting, when they pulled or powered equipment for mowing, raking, and baling. These days, haying is done with modern, enclosed, and air-conditioned tractors, but some people still keep those old machines in use, either out of necessity or as a link to our agricultural past.

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Tractors Come in Handy for Snow Removal

Tractors Come in Handy for Snow Removal

THE NEWBIE - Here at Antique Power magazine, we wish all our readers a very happy new year. January is upon us, and I know many of you have snow right now. Last October, my post in The Newbie was How to Winterize Your Antique Tractor, but not every tractor gets to spend all winter tucked away in a cozy barn. Some, including vintage models, end up being used for snow removal, snow blowing, and even winter logging. I thought it would be...

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Tractor Seats

Tractor Seats

THE NEWBIE - As readers of Antique Power magazine know, one of the most interesting things about antique tractors is the fascinating timeline of tractor technology. A critical part of the tractor, however, seems to get the least mention, and that is the seat. Looking at the big picture of the evolution of tractor seats, from the mid 19th century to today, you might describe it as a journey “from pain to pampering.”

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Rollover Risk

Rollover Risk

THE NEWBIE - Antique Power magazine celebrates the rewards of the antique tractor hobby, but any use of large and powerful machines constitutes a rollover risk. For instance, within the past week, I heard through a local tractor club that an 86-year-old tractor owner and friend to many was found dead, pinned under his overturned tractor and asphyxiated by its weight. These tragic tractor rollover accidents can happen to anyone, not just newbies.

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Nebraska Tractor Test

Nebraska Tractor Test

THE NEWBIE - Antique Power magazine articles often refer to a particular tractor’s horsepower or other ratings as determined by the Nebraska Tractor Test results. You might wonder what “Nebraska Tractor Test” means and how those ratings came to be established and accepted everywhere. The origins and evolution of this testing are an interesting part of tractor history, with worldwide consequences.

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