Green Magazine January 2024

G REEN Magazine ®

January 2024

In this issue...

The WA-14 to WA-17

Between the Froelich and the Waterloo Boy

Deere Belt Buckles

WHAT A DEAL! SPECIAL BUNDLE PRICE

on these TWO books published by Green Magazine

A Specialized Look Into

The Unstyled Model A The Handbook of the John Deere Model A 1934-1938

Fourth Edition • By Wes Malcolm Now in its fourth printing with 15 more pages, this is the handbook of the John Deere model “A,” 1934-1938. A book that should be on the “must read” list of any unstyled “A” owner. There is probably no other book on the market that goes into so much detail on a single model of tractor. Shows illustrations of nearly every change made in the parts that make up the unstyled “A.” 95 pages, 11x8-1/2 inches, soft cover.

Both books include history, specifications, serial numbers, original prices and much more

A Specialized Look Into

The Unstyled Model B The Handbook of the John Deere Model B 1934-1938

The same types of information as available in the book above, except now about the model “B,” written and compiled by a panel of experts who have spent decades collecting and restoring the unstyled version of Deere’s most popular tractor. This book shows nearly every change made in the parts that make up the unstyled “B.” 84 pages, 11”x8 ½”, soft cover, over 200 photos - most in color.

Order GMAB: $63.95 U.S. (Nebraska residents add 5.5% state tax)

$76.95 Canada (US funds) • $89.95 Foreign (US funds)

The prices shown here are for BOTH books shown above - the first time for this BUNDLE DEAL. •• Prices in this BUNDLE DEAL are up to 20% OFF the regular price •• Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express accepted • Nebraska residents add 5.5% sales tax • Price includes S/H

Call

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Auction: Merle Johnson Estate Auction: Annual LeMars Toy Store Auction: Brandon Utesch collection

Each March issue of Green Magazine includes an index of major articles from past issues.

The March 2023 issue featured the newest index.

The monthly publication for John Deere enthusiasts Editor Richard Hain Managing Editor Carol Hain Layout/Design Debbie Behne

Green Magazine® PO Box 95 Bee, NE 68314-0095

January 2024 • Volume 40 Number 1 10

38

Rephotography tracks family over 20 years

Deere & There

22

What’s new—and old?

40

Donna Parker

Belt buckles

John Deere model WA 14-17

Greg Stephen

Benjamin Hain

45

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Departments 5

Bill Proft

48

6

The tractor doctor

Deere John

The last furrow and good friends

16

Ron O’Neill

Digging Deeper

52

Between the Froelich and the Waterloo Boy

Do you have one?

28

Auction highlight

Richard Hain

Nebraska residents, add 5.5% sales tax ($42.15)

First Class/Airmail delivery available: See page 5 Visa/Mastercard/Discover/AmExpress accepted

Reflections on National Farm Toy Show 2023

Richard’s Column

U.S.: $39.95 / 1 year - 12 issues Canada: $59.95 / 1 year - 12 issues Foreign: $69.95 / 1 year - 12 issues

Scale models

Saw it online

Hose clamp rack = top money Adam Smith and Benjamin Hain

54

Two cylinders and grandkids— what's not to like?

30

How our hobby started

ON THE COVER:

Ryan Nitz restored this tractor, originally bought by his grandfather.

For more information, see page 6.

A new decade and the hobby keeps growing Richard Hain

32

Eric W. Mickelson

56

Aussie Ken

Australian wildfires and tractor adventures Ken Nicklas

69

The Young Timer

Advertiser index

Tyler Buchheit

Mr. Thinker

Wrapping up memories with an auction

72

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Page 4 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Here it is January, and it should come as no shock that I have completed practically none of the projects I had hoped to finish this fall. Every late summer, I think of all the projects I am going to get to by January 1, and every year short days, watching football and extra hours in the office get in the way. While I may not have done much actual physical work on shop projects, I have been exhausting quite a few brain cells trying to figure out a project I have rattling around in my head that has to do with making a half-size version of a classic John Deere tractor. My problem centers around how to configure the drive train and find a very small four-cylinder flathead engine. An astute few of you probably just figured out what I want to build. At any rate, while I may not be out in the shop getting greasy, my brain is often still out there working.

Does anyone else find that their favorite part of restoring a tractor is the teardown? It’s probably partly the infatuation of something new, but also the intrigue of what you are going to find inside. When you remove the valve cover, will the rocker arms be oily and in good shape or will you find a broken one? Will the valves move? And what will you find when you take off the head? Will the cylinder walls be shiny and smooth, or will they have the same texture as a cheese grater? All this along with the intoxicating smell of dirty oil and

old gas. Then, though, reality sets in and you look at all of the time and expense in your future and the intrigue begins to wane.

As you read last month, there is no Gathering of the Green this year, but I’m hearing about several summer shows that will feature John Deere. Among them are the Eastern National Expo, this year held in Lancaster, Ohio on June 13-15 and the Albert City Threshermen, held near Albert City, Iowa on August 9-11. One part of the Albert City show is going to focus on unstyled tractors with a lot of plowing and other activities going on. You’ll see an ad from them in this issue. I hope to see many of you at whichever ones I end up going to. Yeah, that’s kind of vague but we’re still at least six months away.

If you are looking for something to do on one of these cold winter nights, how about sending us a few good photos of one of your favorite tractors? My stock of photos for the covers and Deere and There sections is getting kind of low, so if you send us a good photo, it could end up in the magazine fairly soon. The easiest way is to email them to info@greenmagazine.com, though we can still use prints.

At the bare minimum, let us know what the tractor is and who owns it, but it is even better if you send us a letter or even a full story.

See you next month.

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Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 5

From the front cover: This is a photo of my Grandpa and Grandma’s “H” tractor that I restored in 2020. It is serial number 5971 and was originally shipped to Saginaw, Michigan on May 3, 1939. It was used mostly for cultivating on the farm. It is unclear if Grandpa bought the tractor new or used but is one of the first tractors (or the first tractor) on the farm. Grandma and Grandpa are long gone so the true answer is probably unknown forever.

This is the last tractor still remaining in the family and one of few items left of his farm.

Ryan Nitz Well done to Benjamin for his article on all the changes made to the “GP” during its production life.

Changes made to the “D” kept making it a better tractor. Its reputation kept getting better. Changes made to the “GP” were needed to correct the mistakes made in designing it.

The problems were corrected but its reputation never got better.

Dad’s first tractor was a 1938 “GP.” He farmed with it for 10 years and then replaced it with a Farmall “M.” Being a 1928, it had all the problems of the early “GPs.” He eventually bored it out to six inches. It didn’t help. I only ran it a few times. Best way I can compare the “GP” is against our little 40S Dad bought in 1958. The “GP” had to work hard to pull a three row weeder. Its operator had to work even harder to ride the ridges. The 40 just toyed with that weeder. And it was a joy to run. We only pulled some discs, a lister, and the weeder with the “GP.” And it was used a lot to power a Wetmore hammermill. We used that 40 to do everything except power the hammermill. I think some years we put more hours on that 40 than on our main tractor, a Case 930.

The “GP” could barely pull a two bottom plow. It couldn’t pull a one way. I’ve heard a “GP” with rubber Page 6 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

tires could pull a three bottom plow.

Is that true?

John G. Ruff, KS Your October issue of Green Magazine with the article, “Generations of Green” by Allison Luedeke of Ohio, was (I think) one of your best articles ever included in GM. It reminded me of my daughter 20 years ago riding with me on a JD 2955 baling hay and fixing her hairdo. Now she sits on the side of the seat and my grandson sits on my lap. The difference is now I gained 30 pounds that I can’t get rid of.

She played the piano for her enjoyment. I didn’t make taking her to all her lessons, but I never missed a recital either in all eight years she took lessons. I always made time for that.

My dad always said, “A poor excuse is better than none.” Have Allison write more articles in the future, please.

Thank you for a great magazine.

Jerry Feldmeier, MN

I have enjoyed Green Magazine for several months. Above is

a photo of the 1955 model 80 John Deere that I bought in 1974.

I used it for many years on our farm. Since I am retired now, the tractor has been sitting and collecting dust. This past winter, I decided to get it in the shop and work on it.

My main regret is that I did not take more pictures of it before I started.

I stripped it down completely. The radiator leaked some so off to the radiator shop for repairs. The fuel tank was pretty gummed up. I put two gallons of lacquer thinner in the tank and it cleared up nicely.

My 80 was pretty clean on the average, so not too much major work was done. The power steering pump got new bearings and seals. The fuel filter cans were real rusty so I replaced them.

I put on two new front tires. I painted the tractor and had a body shop paint the sheet metal. When I bought the tractor, it had a cab which I took off. The fenders and panel in front of the dash were in bad shape, due to the cab being rusty plus dirty. I cut out and welded in sections.

Below is another photo, this one of my three tractors I have collected.

Besides the 80, there is a 1942 “B” tricycle and a 1947 “D” John Deere.

The “D” I have wanted since my parents had one on the farm when I was growing up.

Earl Berg, MN

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Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 7

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Photographs, snapshots, pictures, photos…whatever you call them, the average American takes 20 of them a day. Most tractor collectors photograph before and after pictures of their restoration projects. When attending tractor shows, we can’t help but take a photo or two. At Classic Green’s show in 2023, we came across a tractor with a picture frame sitting atop it. The frame held three pictures, and here goes, I’m going to drop an elaborate (and not made up) word on you— rephotography.

Rephotography is repeating the same photograph of the same place with a passing of time between the photos.

This is the more scientific term for it but it’s also been called a now-and-then picture, photo recreation, or a sort of visual diachronic. More recently, these types of photos have become popular because of the awkward family photo contests, and recreating childhood pictures as adults, posing as closely to the same as they did in the original picture when they were kids and often creating a funny result.

The photo display we saw was of a tractor and four pretty girls in 2003, 2013 and again in 2023. Each photo showed the progression of a 1949 John Deere model “D” tractor as it changed along with the girls, sisters ranging in ages of only a few months old to the oldest being 10 years old. The tractor, belonging to Randy and Ardis

Page 10 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Ardis and Randy pose with the model “D.”

Kamenicky of Brenham, Texas, sat along the corridor to Fiddler’s Grove with the photo frame on its shiny, green hood. Their daughters (left to right) Elizabeth, Sarah, Anne-Marie and JuliAnn were pictured with the tractor.

Picture 1: The family found and purchased the 1949 “D” in Colorado in 2003. Randy tinkered with the tractor and got it running so they took it, with its faded paint (now known as original patina) to its first show, a local festival. That’s where the original picture

took place. The Kamenicky girls were into soccer, 4-H, softball, and their dad’s tractor hobby. The picture was taken with the sisters standing in front of Randy’s 1949 model “D” tractor, JuliAnn squinting into the sun with Anne-Marie perched on her hip. Sarah was standing next to them in her tank top and pink belt, while Elizabeth in her flowery pants leaned into the picture.

Picture 2, 10 years later, was the girls’ idea for a Mother’s Day present. The family sent Ardis off on a

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 11

Wal-Mart run, a legitimate errand, they claim. They scurried around to get ready, then put their dad to work taking the second picture. And work he did! Unfortunately, the tractor had sat too long and the tire had rotted. Randy aired it up, took a picture, aired it up again and rolled it, took another picture, and so the process went as the girls did their best to line up the same and pose as they had in the 2003 photo. Even though clothing sizes and styles had changed, they attempted to wear the same type of outfits in this repeat picture. The tractor is noticeably rusty and the flat tire still showed despite the valiant effort. They were able to keep their fun secret until Mother’s Day when they presented Ardis with the new two picture frame that held the old 2003 photo, along with the 2013 photo. Ardis said she kept laughing when she saw it and heard their stories. Sarah was proud that she could extend out the stretchy pink belt and still wear it. Elizabeth was in college at this point. She found the floral pants at a thrift shop but she told her mom she returned them after the picture because, after all, she was a poor college student and didn’t have money to throw around like that.

Picture 3, adding another 10 years makes the final picture of the trio 2023. It was a purely coincidental occurrence that each picture was 10 years apart. The idea was a send off gift for Randy and Ardis as they traveled to Classic Green in Tennessee. There was a last minute rush to get the hood on the tractor and to get it fully decaled. Ardis prepared snacks and they made a production of getting this final picture. A son-inlaw was drafted to take the photo to finish out the third of the rephotography series. JuliAnn was expecting and Anne-Marie, at 20 years old, was too big to hold. An impromptu chair was added to accommodate the “look” of being held. Three of Page 12 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

the girls are now moms themselves.

Elizabeth has an 18 month old daughter, Sarah has a five year old daughter and Juli-Ann has a one month old daughter. There’s now a fourth grandchild expected in January. The tractor, completely restored, looked crisp in its new green and yellow paint. Gone was the flat tire so no rolling or airing was required for picture 3, just good times for this creative family.

Fast forward to Classic Green—we met Randy in the Opry Shelter in Fiddler’s Grove as he was making the rounds to see exhibits.

We were standing with our running tractor as part of the 10 a.m. startup. He stood and studied our tractor, a 1950 model “D,” for a long time. He began asking questions and disclosed that he had brought a non-running tractor to the show. He had winched it off the trailer and set a pop-up tent over it. His mission throughout the show was to try to figure out what was wrong with the freshly restored 1949 “D.” He shared that he was partially to blame for its condition because he ran himself out of time, finishing up the restoration the Sunday before the show. He and wife, Ardis, were determined to bring the tractor to the “D” reunion at the Classic Green show and so they had tag-teamed restoration clear up to loading time. Ardis, who is a semi-retired teacher, would do what she could on the tractor during the day, then they would work together or Randy would take over in the evenings when he was home after work at Blue Bell Creameries, where he is an engineering manager.

Why would a person bring a tractor that won’t run to a show, you ask? Over the five days he and his wife spent at the show, he had many tractor experts offer ideas, he was able to study similar tractors like ours, and in the end, he winched the disabled tractor back on the trailer

and took it back home to Texas.

Randy and Ardis achieved the goal to come to Classic Green with a model “D” tractor even though their “D” did not run. Randy also said that they met a lot of good and helpful people who enjoy problem solving. Because of the inoperative tractor, they met more people and were reminded of how kind folks can be.

When they got home, a 13 hour drive divided into two days, Randy let the tractor sit for a couple of weeks. Once he got up the gumption, he checked the simple things but found it was not going to be easy. Digging in, he discovered the governor was 180 degrees out of time. He and Ardis worked together to fix the problem, she on the flywheel and he on setting the governor.

When asked if there would be a 2033 picture, there were laughs from both Randy and Ardis and talk of photoshopping a picture.

The girls would range in ages from 30 to 40, but then it might be fun to have one great big picture with all of them including grandkids. In reality, though, the restored tractor is on the chopping block. They have a price in mind and say it’s for sale especially now that it’s running. They have “approximately” two dozen tractors and are looking to add a shop to work in rather than more tractors at the moment. Selling a few will help fund that project.

What they won’t sell is Randy’s (and Ardis’) favorite tractor, the 4020. It’s the best tractor for drives and parades. In the meanwhile, they want to enjoy time with their granddaughters and perhaps sit back and have a bowl of Blue Bell ice cream.

Just as they have favorite tractors, they also have favorite ice cream.

Randy’s will be Pecans Pralines and Cream and Ardis will have Strawberry Cheesecake.

Show: Albert City, Iowa

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 13

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CHECK OUT Green Magazine’s website for links to museum information, old dealership photos, selected articles, online advertising and more: www.

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Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 15

The following was written by legendary Deere engineer L.W. Witry in 1930. Most of you who have been around the hobby for a while are probably very familiar with the first few paragraphs and the exploits of John Froelich. However, read a little further and you will find some things you probably never heard of before. A Waterloo Boy tractor in 1896? Waterloo Boy cars? A Waterloo Boy three-wheel bull tractor? Four-cylinder tractors? Opposed engine tractors? Lots of interesting stuff here. Read on.

Dated May 5, 1930

By L. W. Witry Mr. John Froelich was born at Giard, Iowa in 1849; later moved to the vil­lage named after his father, Froelich, Iowa, two miles from Giard, Clayton County. In 1888, he bought a J. I. Case Strawburner tractor and a threshing machine from the Case traveling salesman, Mr. S.G. Stewart, who resided at Waterloo. Mr. Froelich used this outfit about four years, threshing in Iowa and South Dakota, carrying with him his own dining and sleeping cars for a crew of 16 men, averaging about 82,000 bushels each fall.

An 1896 Waterloo tractor. Anyone near Geddes, South Dakota?

One was sold near there.

Page 16 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

In 1890, Mr. Froelich bought a 4-1/2 horsepower Charter horizontal station­ary engine, which he mounted and used on his well drilling outfit. It was this gasoline drilling outfit that developed the idea of using gasoline power for his tractor for threshing. He saw an advertisement of the Van Duzen Gaso­line Engine, and after some correspondence, went to Cincinnati in the spring of 1892 to the Van Duzen factory and purchased one of their large, vertical, single cylinder, gasoline engines, which was 14 inch bore by 14 inch stroke. This engine was shipped to Froelich, Iowa, where

it was mounted on wood beams, bearings and gears being purchased from a Robinson Company, who at that time were making steam tractors. This assembling was all done in a small blacksmith shop at Froelich, Iowa, by Mr. Froelich and the blacksmith. This tractor had one speed forward, about two miles per hour, and reverse.

Mr. S.G. Stewart, who sold Mr. Froelich his Strawburner tractor, was much interested in the gasoline tractor and assisted him in selling his old Strawburner tractor and thresher and sold him a new 40 inch cylinder Case threshing machine to operate with the new gasoline tractor. Mr. Froelich tested the gasoline tractor by threshing out a setting early that fall, 1892, and as it operated to his satisfaction, shipped his outfit to Langford, South Dakota, August 15, 1892, and successfully operated for 72 days, averaging 1,000 bushels per day.

During this time, Mr. S.G. Stewart developed considerable

Gasoline Traction Engine Company for the main purpose of manufacturing Mr. Froelich’s gasoline tractor.

The stockholders and incorporators were John Froelich, president; Richard Holmes, vice president; John H. Leavitt, secretary and treasurer; Emmons Johnson, S.G. Stewart, Thomas Cascaden, Sr., J.R. Vaughan, John G. Weller, P.H. Conger, George W. Miller. The company was incorporated for $50,000.

Operations of this organization were started in a frame building on the river bank on Cedar Street between Second and Third Street, now occupied by the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific freight house.

Mr. Froelich was not experienced as a factory manager or engineer so the company engaged a Mr. Quast from Chicago, who made the drawings for the tractor and engineer­ing work. He was not satisfactory and only worked about six months.

Four experimental gasoline tractors were built, two of which

Officially listed as being manufactured by the “Waterloo Foundry Company” in 1911, this tractor was called the “Big Chief,” listed at eight to 15 horsepower and had an opposed two-cylinder engine. interest in Mr. Froelich’s tractor among some of the progressive men of Waterloo. They got Mr. Froelich to ship his tractor to Waterloo about the middle of December 1892. Mr. Froelich demonstrated his gasoline tractor to the parties inter­ested, also showed his record of work in South Dakota. They then negotiated with Mr. Froelich for the manufacture of his gasoline tractor, and on January 10, 1893, organized the Waterloo

were sold—one of them at Hawarden, Iowa in July 1893. Both of them were returned. The company began to realize that they should have another line of manufacture in order to make the factory pay its own way, and Mr. Froelich felt his experience in operating his Charter four horsepower on his well drilling outfit would enable him to design a stationary gasoline engine for which there was a strong market in grain

elevators where they used sweep horse powers and tread mills. The farm also offered a big market.

Mr. Froelich engaged Mr. Sam Shoop in January 1894. He met him at the Charter factory when he bought his four horsepower Charter engine. Mr. Shoop was an experienced shop man but no inventor or designer. About this time, Mr. Ed Miller was put in as manager.

In February 1894, Mr. Froelich installed one of his 4-1/2 horsepower engines in the Waterloo Courier news­paper press room. This was the first gasoline engine in operation in Water­loo and the Courier was printed for years with this engine (and later was replaced with a larger gasoline engine made by the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Co.). Twelve of the 4-1/2 horse­power size and about 20 of the vertical 1-1/2 horsepower pumping engines were sold.

In September 1894, Mr. A. Lupton, an implement dealer of Mt. Auburn, Iowa, purchased an interest in the company and later was made presi­dent of the company. Mr. Sam Shoop only remained with the company until March, 1895, when Mr. W.F. DeWitt took charge of the factory.

The business of the company was not sufficient to continue its operation and it was found necessary to reorganize, which was done on November 18, 1895. The new company then was called the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company, incorporated for $40,000, stockholders and incorpo­rators being, as follows: P.H. Conger, O.V. Eckert, John J. Weller, Richard Holmes, A. Lupton, Henry Hauman. Articles were drawn up by attorney and notary public, George W. Miller. It was shown a short time later, however, that Mr. George W. Miller was a majority stockholder.

Mr. Froelich did not con­tinue with the new company.

The company continued to build the stationary engine and again started experimenting with a gasoline tractor in 1896. They had built a few large 25 horsepower Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 17

stationary engines and by using the cylinder, crankshafts and wheels of this stationary engine, they built up a tractor. In this tractor, the cylinder lay horizontally. While this tractor was far from being practical, it was much better than their previous attempts and one was sold at Geddes, South Dakota.

The stationary and portable engines had been developed to where the business was fairly good and tractor development was held up temporarily. In the summer of 1897, however, they built another one, which was finished shortly after the writer, L.W. Witry, became connected with the company in August 1897. This tractor also was sold.

Mr. Witry took charge of the shop in January 1898, when Mr. W.T. DeWitt resigned.

In November and December, a new brick factory and foundry was built across Cedar Street at the corner of Cedar Street and Third Street.

The shop was two-story, 50 by 100, with the foundry, 60 by 60. Machinery and equipment were moved into the new building in December 1897.

The old building was owned by Thomas Cascaden Sr., who objected to the new building and withdrew from the com­pany in March 1898, and started a new company, the Davis Gasoline Engine Company, located at Commercial Street and Great Western tracks. In August 1898, Mr. George B. Miller became manager in place of his brother, Ed Miller.

The Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company continued to manufacture stationary and portable gasoline engines. Twelve sizes of engines were being made, from a 1-1/2 horsepower with four inch cylinder to a 32 horsepower with 14 inch cylinder. On January 10, 1902, the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company and the Davis Engine Company joined to form the Waterloo Motor Works, which was incorporated for $200,000. lncorporators and stock­ holders were Thomas Cascaden Jr., George B. Miller, L.W. Witry, A. Lup­ Page 18 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

ton, J.R. Vaughan, F.B. Ballon, Emmons Johnson, C.O. Lamson, C.M. Berkley, S.A. Asquith. The Motor Works were to manufacture gasoline engines and Charles E. Duryea three­cylinder automobiles. The Motor Works put up a new factory, which is the building farthest east in Westfield. Just before the building was finished, the Davis factory was completely destroyed by fire and the damaged machinery was stored in the new building. A little later, it was decided by the old Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company it would be best to withdraw from the Waterloo Motor Works and take back the firm

Boy.” The demand for these engines exceeded the capacity of the factory.

This “Waterloo Boy” engine was the turning point for the prosperous future of the company and it required continuous yearly expansions to supply the trade. Thousands of these engines are running today, holding their own against later and newer engines of all makes. There is practically no farm gasoline engine made of any brand but has some of the features of the “Waterloo Boy” in its makeup.

The company also experimented with automobiles and built and sold six cars to local purchasers. This

Likely the model “LA” and the forerunner to the “R.” The two-cylinder opposed engine developed 15 horsepower. The induced draft-type radiator was replaced by a tubular type on later models. name of Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company and remain at the Third Street plant, which was done on June 3, 1904.

The Davis contingent of the Motor Works moved into the new building and continued to build the Davis en­gine and few of the Duryea automo­biles. In 1905, the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company redesigned its gasoline engines, making them much simpler and only half the weight—cylin­der and base were cast en bloc instead of separate units, as before, and were limited to six sizes instead of 12 sizes. The largest new engine was rated at 12 horsepower. This new line of engines was called the “Waterloo

was an opposed motor, two-cylinder car, and was equal to other makes at that time, but owing to limited finances, the auto was discontinued and the engine business increased so it required all of the space and facilities to supply the demand.

Mr. J.E. Johnson joined the company in 1907. The business continued to grow and additional building was done on Cedar Street until the entire half block was covered.

In 1909, the com­pany bought additional ground and built a foundry in Red Cedar addition and continued to enlarge same to its present size. This building is now known as Building B, used for manu­facturing of small farm gasoline en­gines. In

1910, the balance of Red Cedar addition was bought, making a total of 40 acres, and the building now known as “C-4” was built. Four sections were originally erected and later additional sections were added on both sides to its present length.

The company continued to manufacture stationary and portable engines. Nothing more was done on tractors until September 1911, when Mr. A.B. Parkhurst of Moline brought a tractor to Waterloo at the insistence of Mr. Galloway and was plowing on some of Mr. Galloway’s land near where the Dart plant is located, now occupied by

In 1911, another building was put up, now known as Building D, also power house and boilers and engine installed.

In 1912, we had Mr. Parkhurst design a four-cylinder, four-cycle engine to put on his chassis. This was some better, but still very unsatisfactory. Mr. Parkhurst left after being here about a year.

We then were contemplating building the Bull tractor, which was designed by Mr. Hartsough. We, however, did not get together with Mr. Hartsough and concluded to make a similar tractor ourselves.

In 1912, we built a two-cylinder,

A 1912 standard tread tractor using Parkhurst’s four-cylinder engine.

It developed 25 horsepower and weighed 8,400 pounds. The rear wheels were 62 inches in diameter. the Hawkeye Maintainer Company.

Mr. Miller and Mr. Witry saw this tractor in operation and interviewed Mr. Parkhurst, who explained that he had failed to make connections with Mr. Galloway for manufacturing his tractor. Mr. Parkhurst was engaged by the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company in October 1911, and brought with him three of his own tractors that had been made in Moline. These were two-cylinder, two-cycle tractors. One of these was sold by the P.J. Downs Company of Minneapolis, but proved so unsatisfactory in the field that it was returned with Downs’ recommendations that we should not manufacture this tractor.

opposed motor, and made a three wheel chassis, the front and right rear wheel running in the furrow, the left rear wheel on the unplowed ground to stabilize the frame, but soon found that we did not have sufficient traction with the one drive wheel and arranged to drive with both rear wheels. We experimented only a short time with the three wheel job and made it over into a four-wheel tractor. About 20 of the opposed motor, four-wheel, tractors were sold during the year 1913. This tractor was called the model “L-A.” Mr. Leavitt came to work for the company to build a Caterpillar tractor in 1913. His sole endeavors were confined to building the Cat-

erpillar tracks, using our frame as much as possible, and shafts, gears and motor. Early in the following year, 1914, the twin cylinder motor was designed and put on the same chassis that the two-cylinder opposed motor had been used on.

This tractor was called the model “R,” single speed tractor. This twin motor was a 5-1/2 inch bore, 7 inch stroke. The cylinders and head were cast integral. The valves were put in with cages in the end of cylinder similar to cages formerly used in the Buick automobile. This was to be a two-plow tractor, the same as the opposed model “L-A.” Tests were made of this tractor in the spring of 1914 and sold to Nathan Northey and used on one of his farms nearest to Waterloo. The soil on this farm was easy plowing and Mr. Northey added another plow, using three plows, and convinced us that this tractor could be sold as a three-plow tractor, which we, however, found was not true when we got on to other farms with heavier soil.

One hundred eighteen of these trac­tors were sold up to March 1915, when the cylinder was enlarged to six inches, beginning with tractor number 1144, the valve cages still being retained on the six inch cylinder. Four hundred sixty-six of the 6 by 7 single speed, model “R” tractors with valve cages were sold when we began to develop trouble with the valves overheating and found it necessary to put on a cylinder head in September, 1915, commencing with tractor number 1610.

In the summer of 1913, we engaged the services of an engineer employed by the Big Four Company of Minneapolis, who designed a tractor using a four cylinder motor, 5-1/2 by 7, called the “Mogul,” made by the Model Case Engine Company of Pittsburgh. This design was similar to the present four-cylinder type except that it was on channel irons instead of being closed, the radiator being crosswise in front with motor setting lengthwise and clutch at rear, the three speed sliding Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 19

gear transmission which enclosed in its own case and set lengthwise with bevel pinion and bevel gear, with differential in rear of transmission case with cross shafts projecting with exposed bull pinions and internal bull gears. Drive wheels were six feet in diameter and 18 inches wide.

The tractor weighed 8,200 pounds and pulled four plows readily. Four of these tractors were built and sold, but it was not placed in production on account of being too large and expensive for the average farmer.

In the fall of 1915, we began to see the necessity of an entirely enclosed tractor as there was some trouble with dirt getting into the large master gears and wearing them out too soon, especially in sandy country. Some tentative sketches were made up, but no real drawings gotten out until 1916. The trade at this time demanded twospeed tractor(s), so we developed an enclosed transmission for the two­ speeds in December 1916, and called the tractor model “N,” starting with number 10,000, and for about 1-1/2 years, both types were built to finish up stock of materials for model “R” parts, some of which were finished as late as 1918. A total number of 8,076 of the single speed model “R” type were built. In 1917, another foundry building was put up, now called Building “E.” This was not entirely completed when Deere & Company purchased the plant March 18, 1918.

In this same year, 1917, an experi­mental motor of the enclosed type, which was called the “bathtub” tractor, was built and was put on the Northey farm for test. This tractor in general plan is similar to the present “D” tractor, but it had an enclosed final gear drive. This did not prove satisfactory as the gears immediately showed wear on account of the spring of case, the mounting being similar at this point to the Wallis Cub tractor. We were contemplating a center support for the rear axle to get away from the over-hanging of the gears over Page 20 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

the axle bearings, but never built a center bearing. Wallis Cub later were forced to use a center bearing on account of excessive wear of these gears. We made one experimental tractor with the case shortened so that only the differential shaft was enclosed. We used the model “N” internal gear pinion to get away from the internal spur gear assembly as just mentioned. This also gave us the proper rotation of pulley.

We were not satisfied with the model “N” internal final drive combination and were again considering

on April 6, 1920, tractor number 20834, and put into production from that date.

The channel frames of the model “N” motor were bolted together up to this time when it was decided to use rivets, this decision going into effect September 30, 1920, and started on tractor number 28094.

Development was continued on the enclosed tractor, and finally adopted. Some early tractor development work was also done by Gas Engine Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. T.C. Menges, chief

This tractor seems to be the result of Parkhurst’s four-cylinder engine and Leavitt’s tracks. Besides “Sure Grip Never Slip,” it was referred to as the “Waterloo Catapillar.” Yes, that’s the way they spelled it. the installation of the center bearing, using the enclosed spur gear final drive. At this time, we also began to consider the desirability of using a chain which would not be susceptible to the slight deflection caused by the over-hanging of the sprocket not requiring a center bearing and would also give us the right rotation of pulley drive. The chain was finally adopted in 1918 and a tractor was put out the following year embody­ing the chain.

We continued in production with the model “N” tractor, but made some alterations of the front axle, which was of the swinging type and was changed to the auto type of steering, this being adopted

engineer of the gas engine department of the Associated Manufacturers Company, was employed with the Otto people in 1895 when they built a single cylinder horizontal hopper cooled tractor, of which they sold about 100. In 1896, Mr. Menges was employed by the Winona Manufacturing Company of Winona, Minnesota, who were also to build the Otto tractor. He was with these people about one-half year or so, building 50 tractors, using parts bought from the Otto Company of Philadelphia. The same year Mr. Menges went with the FairbanksMorse Company of Beloit, Wisconsin, who also experimented with tractors, but did not go into production.

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The John Deere 20 Series New Generation Tractors

By Benjamin Hain

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The release of Deere’s 8010 tractor in 1959 has been covered in detail for the cool reception that it received by the public and Deere’s struggle to sell the machine despite how impressive its introduction was. Put simply, the tractor was too big and expensive for most farms of the period and there was not a lot of equipment available that could fully utilize its power. It took Deere half a decade to sell the 100 model 8010 tractors that they produced, and the struggle that Deere felt dealing with the tractor impacted their decisions throughout the 1960s.

At the same time that Deere was struggling to sell their 100 tractors, the Wagner Tractor Company was selling 100 four-wheel drive tractors each year. How could this small company have so much success while Deere could not?

Wagner’s first experimental tractor was built in 1949. Elmer Wagner created the machine with inspiration from one that he had seen during his tour of duty in Europe. This machine Page 22 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

was more of an industrial vehicle than it was a tractor, but its potential in the fields was clear. Elmer and his six brothers formed the Wagner Tractor Company in 1954. The company’s machines were literally and figuratively centered upon the Pow-R-Flex coupling. This coupling was the articulated joint that made Wagner’s fourwheel drive tractors what they were.

It allowed the front and rear halves of the tractor to flex and to oscillate so that all four wheels were firmly planted on the ground and pulling the machine, no matter the direction or the terrain that was encountered.

The first of Wagner’s production tractors were imperfect. The Waukesha and Buda engines that they used caused some trouble, as

did vibration in the steering joint and some weaknesses in the axles that they chose. Cummins engines replaced the prior, and Clark Manufacturing axles with planetary gear reduction replaced troublesome Timken axles.

Fuller transmissions worked well in the tractors.

Full production of Wagner tractors began in 1955 and heavy marketing went with it. The 105, 120, and 150 horsepower TR-6, TR-9, and TR-14 were the first to the market. The tractors were able to establish a foothold in the regions where large farms were common. California, Montana, North Dakota, Colorado, Nebraska, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan were the destinations for most of Wagner’s tractors. Wagner added the 300 horsepower TR-24 in 1959, which put them at the top of the horsepower war for a couple of years.

Deere watched Wagner with interest. This little company was making quick progress in the high-horsepower

engines built by other companies for trucks. Most important, however, were the similarities between the Pow-RFlex coupling on Wagner’s tractors and the joint that mated the two halves of the 8010. Some say that this came about at least partly because Deere hired a former Wagner engineer to work on the 8010 project.

Wagner Tractor, Incorporated was sold to Four Wheel Drive Corporation in 1961. FWD produced heavy-duty off-road vehicles including trucks, snow plows, snow blowers, and more. A new lineup of tractors was released that year. These tractors had updated styling but were otherwise very similar to the earlier machines.

The TR- models were replaced by the WA-6, WA-14, and WA-24. The new WA-4 and WA-17 were added in 1961, also. FWD dropped the WA-6 in 1962, as the WA-4 had become more popular.

It was a 120 horsepower tractor that featured a three-point hitch—a feature that none of the larger models had.

The WA-14 and WA-17 were very popular, as well. Both of these tractors used the 773 cubic inch Cummins engine but were later updated to the N885-CI

Cummins. The engine in the WA-17 was equipped with a turbocharger. The tractors made 220 and 280 horsepower, respectively, and were well received in the large-scale small grain market.

The tractors were restyled for the 1969 model year, receiving updates to their bumper and grille. Operator comfort was improved, and a few mechanical changes were made to improve the function of the tractors.

Sales literature through the 1960s clearly shows that Wagner and FWDWagner were not pleased by Deere’s 8010 tractor. They refer to other companies “belatedly trying to copy FWD-Wagner features” and said that they were a company “where machines are originated… not imitated.” Aficionados of Wagner tractors believe that an infringement lawsuit had been filed against Deere and Company over the 8010, but nothing came of it and no documentation proves that this ever happened.

No matter what actually happened behind the scenes, it is clear that Wagner had become annoyed by Deere. Wagner also had a strong position in the field of four-wheel drive tractors, having held off competing machines from both Deere and International Harvester, and holding their own against their direct competitors

market with a tractor unlike any that Deere was producing. Deere was present at a test between one of Wagner’s tractors and an overpowered Case “LA” and saw the Wagner run away from the Case in a hilly plowing contest. Deere’s engineers swarmed around the Wagner and took notes. The Wagner was surely a great part of the inspiration behind Deere’s 8010, which was released shortly after this contest.

The 8010 had a lot of similarities to the Wagner. They both were built of components from trucks and heavy equipment, for instance. The 8010 and Wagner’s tractors used Clark axles, nine-speed transmissions, and diesel Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 23

of Versatile and Steiger. So it is tough to explain what happened next.

On December 31, 1968, Deere and FWD-Wagner signed a contract for as many as 100 tractors, split between the WA-14 and WA-17 models, to be built

by Wagner and painted, decorated, and sold by Deere. The contract also stipulated that Deere could cancel it at any time, and FWD-Wagner would not be allowed to sell any articulated four-wheel drive tractors for five years after the termination of the contract.

The reasons why Wagner would sign a contract with Deere at all are not terribly hard to understand. Either Deere offered to buy and sell Wagner tractors as a way to settle a copyright infringement lawsuit, or Wagner simply saw it as an opportunity to put a bigger name on their tractors, and to work with one of the heavyweights of the industry to gain market share and set themselves up for a strong future.

But why was the deal so onesided? Why would Wagner allow Deere to put them into such a vulnerable position? It has been postulated that FWD-Wagner may have been planning on liquidating soon, anyway.

Other companies were hot on their heels in their market and it seemed that Deere, IH, and other big-name tractor companies would soon have a successful four-wheel drive tractor of

Page 24 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

their own. FWD-Wagner had already sold the rights to some of their tractors to Raygo; perhaps the Deere deal felt like the best way to get a profit out of what they still had.

It has also been said that perhaps the deal was not quite as one-sided as it first appears. If the lawsuit was real and this deal was a part of it, maybe Deere substantially overpaid for the tractors. The cash terms are not known, after all, so maybe it was a windfall for Wagner. Maybe…

We may never know just what Wagner received out of the contract, but we do know what Deere got: two massive tractors with a name and pedigree known throughout grain country. The Wagner tractors were component-built, but after a decade and a half of experience and real world experience, Wagner had nailed down those components that were the most reliable in their tractors. The two tractors had the 855 cubic inch Cummins diesel, as mentioned earlier, and used Fuller’s Roadranger RTO 910 10-speed transmission. The axles were made by FWD and Wagner built the drop boxes and hinges.

Cabs were optional on the tractors and air conditioners and heaters were optional on the cabs. Hydraulic power was supplied by either a 15 or 35 gallon per minute hydraulic pump

and single, dual, or triple outlets were available. Neither tractor had a three-point as an option. The WA-14 was equipped with 18.4-34 inch dual wheels or 23.1-30 single or dual wheels, and the WA-17 had 28.5-26 inch single tires or 23.1-30 inch duals.

Sales of the WA-14 and WA-17 were about as poor as those of the 8010. The retail price of the tractors was over $35,000 and $41,000, meaning that they cost even more than the 8010, even after adjusting for inflation. The Wagner tractors had a proven track record that the 8010 did not have, however, and so were able to carry a bit more weight because of it. The tractors also had a limited customer base. They were big, weighing 23,000 and 27,000 pounds, and viable only on the largest of farms. They had very little use on a row crop farm outside of tillage. Still, Deere managed to sell between 55 and 65 of the machines.

The fact that Deere did not build the machines or any of their components did not help their sales. Most of Deere’s customers by this point were people who had Deere products in the past and were happy with them. Putting money, especially the great cost of these particular tractors, into any other brand felt risky. Even the salespeople at Deere were likely hesitant to sell one of the Wagner machines. Besides

not necessarily having full faith in some of the parts, they also probably knew less about them than they did about Deere’s own tractors. Having a couple of Wagners in the area could have created a headache for the service department, as well, who would have had to learn about these new and different machines. They also would have had to order parts from several outside sources to repair the things, which was much more complicated than simply sending parts orders off to Deere.

The Wagner tractors had two serial numbers. The Deere WA-14s started with a Wagner number of WA-14-902 and Deere number 101.

WA-17 tractors were numbered from WA-17-901 and 101. The Wagner serial number appeared on a larger tag that included transmission numbers, an engine number, and other information, as well. Deere-sold WA-14 tractors started with number 902 because Raygo sold a single tractor during the 1969 model year before their deal with Deere was struck. WA-14 serial number WA-14-902, or 101, has a fourlegged deer logo on the grill. The rest of the tractors have a two-legged deer.

Deere ended their agreement

with FWD-Wagner in 1970. FWDWagner was restricted from selling articulated four-wheel drive tractors for the next five years. This effectively ended Wagner’s business. With no tractors to sell, many Wagner dealers went out of business. Some went on to build their own tractors or to refit old Wagner tractors. Big Bud and Rite were two of the companies created out of the ashes of Wagner.

Deere had the 7020 and 7520 waiting right around the corner, so the poor sales of the Wagner and its quick demise were not big issues for the company. The 7020 and 7520 would bring new and unmatched versatility and maneuverability to four-wheel drive tractors, and their construction entirely of Deere parts certainly made them a bona-fide Deere machine.

The Wagner name lives on in the heavy equipment world. Allied Systems Company has a Wagner line that includes log stackers, wood chip and coal dozers, landfill compactors, magnetic scrap iron movers, coil carriers, heavy transporters, and more. Other lines of Wagner equipment have also

survived through the decades in other companies. Companies including PACCAR, WABCO, Raygo, and others have owned production rights to Wagner’s machinery.

The Deere-Wagner tractors are rarely seen at tractor shows today. This is due to several reasons. First, they are often forgotten by Deere enthusiasts.

They were not designed or built by Deere. Deere did not even advertise the machines very well. Also, they are big, heavy, and difficult to move around the country to get to the site of a tractor show. They are rare. With only around 60 of the machines in existence, they are less common than the 70 Hi-Crop, 620 orchard, or the model “C.” Finally, those tractors that do exist may well still be at work. These machines were built to be about as rugged as a tractor can be and many of the parts that they were built out of are standard sizes and easy to find replacements for. Compared to many tractors, the WA-14 and WA-17 are easy to keep running, so they keep working.

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 25

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Tractor Parts We Fabricate

Countryside Tractor

Weight Bracket Step w/Pads 5010, 5020, 6030: AR58358, Pr $490 5010, 5020, 6030 - AR40914, $165 Rear Engine Panels Step U Bolts $18 4620 Right, AR43290, $155 Seat Base Cover for Tractor w/o 4620 Left, AR51804, $255 Rock Shaft - AR26846, $295 2510 Right, AR38206, $300 4000 & 4020 Std SN 201,000 & Above Fabricated tractor parts - Dave 2510 Left, AR38207, $220 AR40773 LH Rear Eng Panel = $80 HaalaAR38202, $300 AR40774 RH Rear Eng Panel = $80 2520 Right, AR38838, 2520 Left, AR38839, AR38203, $220 AR40871 Platform (can modify 5010, 5020 R, AR35023, $300 AR48727) = $155 L, AR35024 OR AR36796 $300 AR41097 Platform Support = $84 6030 Right, AR53645, $350 AR41098 Platform Support = $84 6030 Left, AR53646, $350 AR41137 Dust Shield RH = $315 Dust Shields AR41138 Dust Shield LH = $315 5010 Right, AR35334, $320 AR41174 Support To Dust Shield=$27 5010 Left, AR35335, $320 R41253 Ext Front Right = $156 5020, 6030 RC Right, AR40930, $350 AR41451 Ext. (RH) = $74 5020, 6030 RC Left, AR40931, $350 AR42594 Step Bracket w/2 pads = $215 5020, 6030 Whd R, AR36772, $350 F3195R Step Pad = $30 5020, 6030 Whd L, AR36773, $350 AR42989 Cover Battery Box = $80 Rock Shaft Cover AR45129 Battery Box Support = $75 5010, 5020 Right, R36420, $295 AR45130 Battery Box Support = $75 5010,5020 Left, R36422, $160 AR45131 Ext L Ft AR48964 = $184 5010, 5020, 6030 Center, AR55756, $70 AR45207 Battery Box = $340 AR46289 Weight Bracket = $102 6030 Right, AR55755, $295 AR48964 Ext L Ft AR45131 = $176 6030 Left, R51485, $160 3020 Standard Tractor Toolbox Cover R34944 Floor Panel 3020 Std PS 5010, 5020, 6030 - AR35050, $65 R34943 Floor Panel 3020 Std PS Hood Air Cleaner Cover AR34801L Dust Shield = $325 4050, 4520, 7020 - AR43256, $165 AR34801R Dust Shield = $325 Hydraulic Dipstick Cover 5010, 5020, 6030 - R36421, $80 R42893 Fastener Pin for Battery Box = $36

Dave Haala: dave@haala.com or 507-920-9181

Robert’s Carburetor

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 27

Get more organized

at a cost of $1,267.32

This month What Brought More? is a contest between a ribbon from the 1908 John Deere annual picnic and a new old stock six-foot folding wood rule.

The old ribbon is in a plastic sleeve and comes with a slip with a few paragraphs written about Savannah, Georgia, where the picnic was held. The ribbon is a bit discolored and wrinkled, but it is a unique piece from early Deere history.

The wood rule still has its original paper packaging on it. It’s essentially “new in the box” and likely dates to the 1980s. One of these items is a lot more useful than the other, the other is more historical and decorative. Which do you think brought the higher price on eBay? Find out at the end of the article.

Deere entered the lawn and garden game with the model 110 in 1963.

The 110 could be attached to garden sized plows, planters, wagons, snowblowers, blades, and more and, of course, could get the lawn mowed. The timing was great as the suburban boom was fully underway, and getting a little Deere tractor to enjoy on your lawn was an attractive proposition for many people. A brochure, in great condition, Page 28 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

that it had a small and light stain on the top. It sold for $770.

The second hat is all black and was once worn by a watchman at the John Deere Malleable Iron Works.

Like the first, this hat had a metal badge on the front.

The seller said that this hat also had a bit of wear and discoloration. It sold for $849.99.

These hats both have the archetypical stylings of a police officer or security guard’s hat. The badge really sets

introducing the 110 for its first year of production, sold on eBay this month.

It sold for $230.50.

Two hats once worn

by John Deere factory security personnel were found on auction this month.

The first of these was worn by plant security at the John Deere foundry. It is a blue hat with a black brim, and it includes a metal badge with green paint filling the letters. The seller said

them off as pieces interesting for collectors of John Deere memorabilia.

I can’t imagine many of these exist. One would think that they had to be turned in after leaving the job.

Next up is a custom model “B” toy originally by Eska. This toy was modified to have a wide front end, and the modeler did a good job to make it look like a real Deere product. The only problem with it is that it does not steer. This toy has been restored and is in excellent condition. It sold for $115.

Just like the model “B” toys, the 7520 in original condition did significantly better than the restored model. The alloriginal sold for $670.71. The restored piece brought $209.50.

A cute little bale elevator model also sold this month. I suppose this would work better with a model “B” than a 7520, but hey, on a toy farm, anything goes! This elevator also came with the box. It was in great shape and sold for $404.

As a counterpoint to the previous toy, we have another model “B” toy that is in original condition. This toy appears to never have been played with, and its condition is superb. It also comes with the box which is in similarly fantastic shape. There is some very slight wear and discoloration to the tractor, but it is about as close to “factory fresh” as one could find these days. It brought $898.

Similar to the pair of model “B” toys, two 7520 toys sold this month.

The first of these was repainted. The second is in original condition and missing the exhaust pipe.

Need a hose clamp rack? I know I do. Mine are typically in a pile on the workbench or, if I’m lucky, in a plastic shopping bag somewhere. I know that

I found some that I forgot I had on the floor of the coat closet last spring.

I’ll admit that I’m not as organized as I wish I was. Perhaps I should have bought this hose clamp rack that was once in a Deere dealership. I can imagine how satisfying it would feel to have hose clamps of every size ready and waiting in one central location, just ready to grab and put on the sprayer, anhydrous applicator, or radiator hose. Maybe I even would’ve bid on it, too. But I never would have won it.

Not when it sold for $1,267.32! It’s a nice piece, but it’s a bit scratched and bent. I guess someone else is a lot more disgusted by their poor organization than I yet am.

I’m sure you’re on the edge of your seat with anticipation about the results of What Brought More? Well, bate no longer your breath, for the moment is nigh. The picnic ribbon, drab as it may have looked, is a rare piece that they certainly aren’t making any more. With that in mind, perhaps the $128.46 price is not surprising.

We’ve seen folding wooden rules in this article before. In fact, just a couple of months ago there was a very old folding rule featured in What Brought More? But never before have we had a brand new one like this. This rule managed to beat the price of the one from a few months ago, but it could not best the ribbon. It sold for $104.05.

See something interesting online? Forward it to sawitonebay@ yahoo.com

If you see a John Deere item of interest for sale online: Email: sawitonebay@yahoo.com

or info@greenmagazine.com Mail: Green Magazine/Auction Highlight PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095 Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 29

It was 1990, and as the new decade rolled in, the hobby was going pedal to the metal. Seems like everyone who had grown up on a farm, and many who hadn’t, were pulling trac-

tors out of the weeds, getting them running, painting them with a spray can, and becoming part of the hobby.

Small businesses were popping up to serve the growing hobby, many

Not a great photo of Wally Loewen’s third scale “D” and plow but it shows its general size. It even had a working magneto and water feed. Even back then, the builder preferred to remain anonymous.

I think I know who bought it back then, but I would love to hear where it is today.

Below: Typical beginning to one of Dana’s articles.

Page 30 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

of them still in business. Among the advertisers back then were 2-Cylinder Diesel Shop, Wengers, Denglers with Taper-Loc flywheels, IPCO grille screen material, Panning Brothers, Minn-Kota steering wheel recovery, Bob Shreiber with a host of reproduction parts for unstyled tractors, Magneeders and M.E. Miller with tires.

The Wallace Loewen Trust auctioned his tractors and many of the prices brought were not that different than what you might see today, though a restored 730 diesel standard, electric start for $4,000, Waterloo Boy “N” for $13,750 and six horse “E” for $1,500 look like bargains. A one-third scale “D” and two bottom plow, believe me, it was something you wish you had, brought $9,150.

In the fall of 1990, subscribers to Green Magazine received their firstever October issue. At the time, I had been farming enough to be considered a full-time farmer with my ground,

mostly rented, spread out over 18 miles, and some of it was furrow irrigated. For the first time ever, as one crop season drew to a close, I was not looking forward to the next season.

In other words, I was burned out. So I decided to go from being a farmer/ publisher to a publisher/farmer, gave up all of the rented ground, and began publishing Green Magazine twice as often.

The late Dana Marlin wrote her first article for us in 1990. She was a very talented writer whose humorous stories were based on tagging along with her husband, Roger, while he picked up or delivered tractors. If you have our book, The Green Experience, you’ve read some of her articles.

Besides Dana, we were publishing frequent articles from Selmer Nelson, Bill Vossler and Clarence Leazenby, who was a frequent contributor of how-to articles.

In the fall of 1990, Lyle Hermance, who was the coordinator of adult agricultural education at Southeast Community College in Lincoln, Nebraska and a John Deere collector, gave me a call to discuss a project he had in mind, that being a winter conference for John Deere collectors. I told him I thought that it was a great idea, and gave him a few suggestions of people to present workshops. The result was the Tracking the Deere conference, held in March of 1991. Roger Marlin was there to talk about two-cylinder diesel mechanics and Don Straube on gas tractors. Travis Jorde presented four sessions on decals and Eldon

Travis Jorde speaks at the Tracking the Deere conference in 1991.

Trumm discussed toy collecting. A couple of instructors from the college gave classes on welding and owners of a local body shop demonstrated painting. The event was popular enough that another was held in 1992. After that, Mr. Hermance’s duties at the college changed so he was no longer able to organize future conferences.

About 200 people attended, which was about capacity for the facility.

While that may not seem like many, that event was popular enough that when Mark Johnson called me almost 10 years later to talk about his idea for a similar conference in Moline, I

was again optimistic that it would be a success. That conference of course became Gathering of the Green.

Steve Just and John Nikodym had traveled to Argentina in November of 1989 to search for and eventually purchase two-cylinder tractors. According to the article that we published in June of 1991, Steve first learned that two-cylinder tractors had been built there until 1970 from George Leeper of Kingston, Missouri, who had visited South America on a Pioneer Seeds tour.

Five tractors eventually followed them home to Nebraska, with many more to follow.

We welcome your letters, photos and stories

Green Magazine • PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095

Email: info@greenmagazine.com

Please include your phone number on all submissions

Send your submission today!

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 31

Over the last 16 or so years I have been writing in Green Magazine, I know I have mentioned my tractor mentor, Marvin Fluegge, many times.

To say that he was an influence on me would be putting it lightly. Fortunately, I (along with my brother, Alex) was able to spend a good deal of time in Marvin’s farm shop north of Charleston, Missouri (located in the southeast or bootheel region). It was by fate that we got to know Marvin and his wife, Rosa Lee, as they attended church with my uncle, Dwayne Lorenz. Marvin and Uncle Dwayne were very close friends over the years and, as you might imagine, they buddied up when it came to all things antique tractor related.

Marvin learned how to repair all things mechanical first on the farm of his brother-in-law, Edwin Birk, after his mother passed away when he was only 15 (his father died when he was

only four years old and his family struggled to make a living in that time).

World War II was Marvin’s ticket off the farm as he enlisted in the US Army in 1943, starting the next chapter of his life. In the Army, he learned many things required to bring the fight to Europe. He received extra training in the form of vehicle maintenance as some of his service was driving truck loads of gasoline to the front and German prisoners back. Being part of the US 3rd Army, Marvin recalled many times when installing a cotter key that it must be good enough for General George S. Patton himself (meaning that the two ends of the key must be correctly positioned not only to stay tight but cut to the right length so they will not contact a dust cap or something that would cause them to work loose and fall out). Another term that he used daily was “combat ready,” meaning if something was checked out and

Zachary standing next to the OTC 30-ton hydraulic puller that we bought. He is dying to get to use it for a project in our shop so he can see how it works.

The F145H 4-14 plow with the new moldboards and shins sitting on it just as I had left it some years ago. I can remember discussing it with Marvin the last time we were together at the farm before his passing.

Page 32 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

verified to be in good working order, it was combat ready!

Marvin always liked to share that he was amazed the Germans lost the war, given all the excellent equipment they possessed. The opportunity to see firsthand many instances of wrecked German equipment during the war led to his amazement at the design of their tanks and aircraft. Those positive memories of German engineering led to him choosing a Deutz air cooled diesel engine to power his center pivot irrigation unit. Of course, Marvin had to improve upon the performance by adding a water sprinkler system that sprayed 55-degree water on the sides of the engine oil pan while the pump was running to aid in keeping oil temperatures cooler. He would say too much heat will kill an engine by breaking down the oil.

After the war, Marvin got a job at McDonnell Douglas and later at Fabick Caterpillar that kept him in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Marvin always spoke of Mr. John Fabick as his Auction scene right before it began.

second father (Marvin’s dad passed away when he was around 10 years old). Mr. Fabick taught Marvin that every job took a different tool and that it was always worth the time and effort to use the “proper tool” for the job. I will never forget about Marvin telling me to stop pounding on something we were working on together with my fist.

He said, “Old man Fabick told me a long time ago when he saw me doing the same thing as you with my fist that I should never abuse one of the best two tools a man can own—his hands.

He told me to take care of them because you cannot get new ones if you mess them up! Use the proper tool for job!”

Marvin spoke fondly of having the job of taking out brand new D8 bulldozers to local jobsites to put a few hours on them and add some scuff and scrapes so it would be obvious that they were in used condition. The purpose of this was so that the dozers

Marvin’s John Deere tools sold very well.

Below: My first purchase at the sale was this set of valve guide reamers and piston ring regroover. Marvin and I regrooved a set of pistons for my 520 LP since replacements were not available.

could be exported to Brazil as apparently in that time (post-war 1940s), no new construction equipment was allowed to be shipped there due to government regulations. However, there was no restriction to allowing used construction equipment to be exported from the USA to Brazil. Fabick CAT even offered Marvin a chance to go down to Brazil to teach operators and technicians about maintenance but he declined the opportunity since the time overseas in Europe during the war was enough time abroad.

Marvin moved back to southeast Missouri when he married his wife, Rosa Lee, in 1949. He took a job working for French Implement in Charleston, Missouri. He was factory trained in Waterloo at John Deere service school on the model “R” diesel (I cherish his training certificate which he gave me some years ago). I can hear Marvin’s voice saying, “Now if the farmer went to town by himself to buy a tractor, he would often buy a Deere because they were built the heaviest, had the fewest number of parts, and would run longer. But if he took his wife along, she would say that the Farmall or Oliver was the best because they ran the smoothest. That putt-putt was annoying for the Mrs., but was music to Mr. Farmer’s ears because of the economy and longevity of the JD.” I do not know if that was true but it sure makes for an interesting story.

In 1957, Marvin quit his job as a repairman at French Implement and went into partnership with Mr. Giltz

in Charleston, Missouri. They operated a full service machine shop for over 20 years. Marvin said they could bore engine blocks up to eight inches with their boring bar, do a valve job on virtually any engine, and grind cranks and cams too. Valve jobs were one of the biggest money makers for the machine shop with heads always needing cracks repaired, along with the normal valves and guide replacements. LP-gas conversions on farm tractors meant that hardened valve seat inserts from Stellite were needed to keep the valve wear from becoming too aggressive.

LP did not produce the carbon after combustion as did gasoline and diesel engines along with the lack of lead, all of which provided lubrication.

After going out of business with Mr. Giltz, Marvin kept some of the machine shop equipment such as valve grinding and valve seat equipment. He still did that type of work, but let the large jobs of cylinder block boring and surface grinding for the big shops. In that time, he got work at the Mississippi County, Missouri highway department. He would do his farming after work, all while working full time for the highway department shop. I heard several times that folks would kid him about sleeping in the day (at work) so he could stay awake farming at night.

Honestly, Marvin was not the kind of guy to take a nap so I think his buddies were only kidding him. Working hard and having a high level of farm smarts is what defined Marvin (as with many in the greatest generation)!

Dad after checking out the like-new transfer auger he bought.

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 33

I was able to know Marvin only during the last 20 or so years of his life when he was retired from a regular job and was farming about 200 acres on his southeast Missouri farm. The previous history is from what I learned about his life directly from his stories.

When he was not farming, he would be repairing old tractors and equipment. He was the go-to cracker jack mechanic in the region, especially for diagnosing and repair of vintage farm equipment and Caterpillar engines (he was well qualified for both). Countless times while helping Marvin on repair projects, while I asked questions, he would say, “Well, I have forgotten more about these old tractors than you will ever know.” He did not mean that in a bad way, rather that is simply how he spoke when getting perhaps a little frustrated that he had to think of an answer (instead of just rattling it right off).

After Marvin’s passing in December 2015, his son in law, Larry, continued the farming (he had been working with Marvin on the farm for several years as he and his wife, Sharon, built a house on the farm).

Plans were made to rent the farm to a neighbor after a couple years so that Larry and Sharon would have time to enjoy their retirement. Later in 2018, when Marvin’s widow, Rosa

Lee, passed away, I wondered what the family was going to do with the farm belongings and all his collection of tools and equipment. They held an estate sale on their household belongings within a year or so of Rosa Lee’s passing but the farm equipment stayed put for the time being.

Uncle Dwayne phoned me in early summer of 2023 to share that finally there was going to be an auction for Marvin’s farm estate on July 29. It was going to be a live and online auction as is so popular today. There were about 350 lots listed online for the sale, along with many unlisted miscellaneous items. My dad and I planned to attend along with Uncle Dwayne and our mutual friend, Dicky Hanor. We all knew Marvin well and would not miss his farm estate auction for anything!

Saturday, July 29, 2023 turned out to be one of the hottest and most humid summer days of the whole year. While the temperature of 95 was indeed hot, it was the 62 percent relative humidity from noon through the afternoon that made the heat nearly unbearable.

Without any doubt in my mind, the weather conditions affected the live auction crowd as many folks simply cannot stand that kind of heat index for long periods of time. We all took a change of clothes along, knowing

Zachary and Uncle Dwayne (at right) looking on as the 420T sold.

Marvin’s son in law, Larry, purchased it to keep it around the farm.

Dwayne wanted to buy the tractor but felt good abstaining from bidding, knowing it would stay on the farm.

Page 34 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

that the sweat would be rolling while at the sale. I packed a big straw hat and a cooler full of chilled water and sports drinks to ward off dehydration.

Online bidding was set to start at 11:30, but due to many of the unlisted items selling first, the numbered lots were delayed. Dad and I purchased many small lots of tools and miscellaneous items such as buckets of link

Marvin’s 3020 sold for $7,000.

I was torn about buying it as I already have more tractors than I need. A neighboring farmer bought the 3020 to use for light work around his farm.

Below: Zachary checking out the washer assortment on the shed wall. I recall many trips out here to look for a spacer while working with Marvin. Luckily Uncle Dwayne bought this for me as I was already loading auction haul when it sold.

Back at our farm with the first load of auction goodies.

Below: Finally, after many years, the F145H was back in the field on the second pass. After getting it scoured and a few adjustments, it finally did a nice job of leaving a clean furrow.

I am certain that Marvin would be quite proud of the 630 pulling his plow. Thanks to his years of free schooling, I got the 630’s engine setup to make as much horsepower as a 730. I was able to pull the plow in third gear at eight inches deep in our Missouri clay-loam.

chain, electrical supplies, and whatever was a good deal. This auction was one of my son, Zachary’s, first experiences at a live sale. As one might expect, he found the experience exciting as, “There is so much cool stuff to buy. We should buy it all!” Yes, we all get the auction fever but young Zachary got it fast.

While I was interested in purchasing many items on the sale, I really planned on buying two things—a 30 ton OTC hydraulic jaw puller and a four-bottom F145H 14 inch semi-integral moldboard plow. The 30 ton OTC puller was something that Marvin and I used together on many occasions.

One of the more memorable times we

used the tool was when I was getting my 720 diesel running back in 2005.

I had the clutch pulley off the tractor and needed to get the drive gear off to repair the drive pin hole in the operating sleeve. With Marvin’s help, we set up the pulley on the shop floor (on wood to keep the pulley from being damaged) and lined up the puller so that it was vertical. I pushed the handle up and down on the puller pump until the gauge showed over 20 tons of pressure. Marvin nearly jumped off the floor and hit the shop roof when it let loose with a POW! While the puller was not used that often, it was necessary for the tough jobs.

The F145H 4-14 moldboard plow was one implement that I recall Marvin having around the farm but he had not used it in years. Shortly before his death in 2015, Marvin asked me if I could get him a few parts for his plow. He wanted to put it back in service again, but it needed a couple moldboards replaced along with some shins. It was on my last visit to the farm with Marvin that I brought him the parts and I sat them on the plow frame. Unfortunately, he did not get the chance to install them on his plow as they were still sitting where I had left them some eight years prior. I knew I was going to buy the plow and keep it in his memory.

Three trailer loads of auction items were hauled back to our farm

after the auction. I purchased more than I planned on and of course reflect on the many items that I “should have” bought. A few notable items we bought were a grain auger (like new condition), 20 foot JD rotary hoe, SnapOn tool box/custom work table and bench, specialty wrenches, 60 pieces of 30 foot aluminum irrigation pipe, foot operated rivet press, and a 14 foot heavy aluminum john boat. In good auction fashion, our trailer loads look a bit like something out of a Sanford and Son episode, but they were well secured and everything made it back to our place.

While I had mourned Marvin and Rosa Lee previously at their funerals some years ago, the auction felt a bit like opening some of the same feelings again but in others it was more of a closure. I had already accepted the fact that I would not ever be able to go down to the farm and see what tools and tricks Marvin would have up his sleeve for the next antique tractor repair project.

Being on the farm seeing the objects he and I used over the years brought the memories flowing back. It was a happy time to recall many forgotten experiences. I could and did not buy them all but the important ones came home with us.

Contact Tyler Buchheit by email at tyler@mrbtractors.com. His website is www.mrbtractors.com.

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 35

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Page 36 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Classic Green Reunion

2025

June 12-14, 2025

Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center West Bend, Wisconsin

ClassicGreen.org or find us on Facebook See

1) Call 402-643-6269 with credit card in hand 2) Go online: www.greenmagazine.com 3) Send a check by mail with the subscriber’s name

A subscription or a subscription renewal makes a great gift!

and address to Green Magazine, PO Box 95, Bee, NE 68314-0095 For more info on subscription rates, see page 4.

Questions? Call 402-643-6269 for great customer service!

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 37

Right: Four Johnson brothers parading on four “Ds” at the Major County Threshing Bee tractor show Sept. 2223 in Fairview, Oklahoma to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the model “D.” Pictured are Marc, Phil, Roger and Rodney of Lahoma, Oklahoma; they led the parade each day with the flag salute and national anthem. The two painted “Ds” were purchased by Bill Johnson, their dad, after World War II and used on their dairy farm until the 1970s. Bill served on the aircraft carrier Saratoga.

This is a picture of Alex Henderson’s John Deere 620 in his sunflower patch in South New Berlin, New York.

Right: Rex (the baby) and Corban (the toddler) Horrell driving in the snow in Clark County, Missouri while their protector looks on.

Page 38 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Left: McCoy Peterson, six months old, on the family farm with his John Deere and cows! He checks his cattle every day on his tractor, just like his papa: A family who loves their John Deere tractors.

Jeremy Fowler sent us this nice photo of his model “R.” Left: Peter Niedballa loves farming and tractors. This is HIS wedding picture with his favorite tractor.

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 39

When you are a John Deere dealer, or any dealer really, something very important occurs between you and your parent company. And that is communication. Corporations have to convey massive amounts of data and information to their dealers and dealers have to send data back. When we were dealers, a lot of our time was pre-internet, so this back-and-forth exchange necessarily took place by documents, letters and bulletins. I cannot think of a single dealer I ever talked to who was not nearly overwhelmed at times with the sheer volume of information Deere sent out—parts information, service updates and recall campaigns, sales details and information, personnel changes, position appointments and far more. It was not unusual to get five to 15 pieces of mail every day from Deere. Naturally Deere expected every dealer to open and read and act upon each and every bulletin that they received. This was a great idea but, in reality, most dealers were very busy and often this task got laid to the side until such a time arose that they could be dealt with.

One dealer I bought out had box after box packed full of packets and envelopes from Deere that had never even been opened. I am talking dating back to the 1970s. I am sure they lacked the manpower and maybe even the desire to try to look at all of these bulletins. At our dealership, we did the best we could, but most did not get the timely attention Deere wanted them to have.

There were, however, occasionPage 40 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

ally bits and pieces of mail that came that I actually looked forward to and read immediately. One of these was the flyers and order forms sent to us regarding toys, collectibles and merchandise that was available for dealers to order. Deere would normally appoint an advertising company to be their official supplier of these items and I am sure for these companies, it was a big deal to land a national account like John Deere. The one that provided these items when I came into being a dealer was the Lee Wayne Company.

I can remember looking through the daily mail and bypassing the numerous parts and service and sales bulletins, just looking for an envelope from Lee Wayne. When I came across one, I opened it immediately to see what new and special items were being offered.

At various times of the year, Lee Wayne would send an actual catalog which was to be used during the year to order items a dealer might need such as caps, coffee cups, flags and pennants, t shirts, coats, desk accessories, clocks, balloons, playing cards, counter stools, pens and pencils, belt buckles and more. This month, we are going to take a look at some of the flyers that we received that dealt with belt buckles. I, of course, saved most of these flyers and catalogs. Surprised?

You should not be.

We are going to look at a specific item this month and it is belt buckles.

Deere has always offered a wide array of belt buckles and I likely sold hundreds of them over the years I was a dealer. A few would become a

staple more or less and be offered for a long time, but most were available for a short time only, which added to their collectibility. Let us get started.

This flyer was a buckle specific flyer and it showed a wide range of buckles Deere had available. This flyer offered many favorites, one being the buckle featuring the leaping deer logo. I sold many of these and it was so popular nationally that it was offered in different styles. The one in the upper right-hand corner was gold and black, while the one in the upper left-hand corner was a brass color. The lower right-hand corner was in silver and gold and the trademark buckle in the lower right-hand corner was available in polished silver or polished gold. This wide range of options made sure a customer could choose the one he wanted but the downside was a dealer had to stock a large number of buckles to have all the different versions available. This usually meant a dealer ended up with buckles left over as it seemed you could never guess right on what buckle to order or how many.

A matching logo watch fob was offered in the center top while a buckle featuring the MaxEmerge 2 planter was next up. The second one down on the right-hand side was a personal favorite of mine. It was a buckle shaped like a disc blade. Plain, simple and to the point, the disc lent itself perfectly to being a buckle. They were also inexpensive and I sold a lot of them.

So many that, when Lee Wayne chose to discontinue the disc buckle, I made

a deal with them and purchased the remaining inventory.

Next was an industrial buckle featuring a backhoe and the slogan Only the Best. Deere used this slogan on many advertising items, and it was

Photo 1 popular. Next was a buckle featuring the John Deere diesel engine. Although not as popular for me, I sold a few. Another industrial buckle featuring the log skidder is next and then the Maximizer combine buckle. The skidder sold only a few while the combine did okay in sales. Next is anoth- Photo 3 er favorite of mine, the industrial dozer buckle. What I liked about this one was that the design featured a lot of horizontal lines, and I liked the way it looked. Again, when this buckle was discontinued, I made another deal and bought all Lee Wayne had left. The final item on this flyer is in the bottom center and it is an industrial key ring featuring the motor grader. Note it has a different slogan, Run with the Best (Photo 1).

This one is like the mail I used to like to receive (Photo 2). A simple envelope with this flyer folded inside. I

also like the blue and black color choice for the flyer design and of course the older two legged deer logo. This one was for the silver version of the four generation belt buckle. Often a design like this was used in a limited gold

Photo 2

Photo 4

ing the way was the mighty 8850, a monster of a tractor for that time. This one dates from 1982, 41 years ago! The tooled leather in the background is a nice touch also.

This was another eye-catching buckle with the row crop tractor appearing as if it was climbing up out of the buckl (Photo 5).

This flyer had the same background as one we previously looked at but this time in red and black instead of blue and black. This time this silver buckle, showcasing the 1876 trademark, was available in two sizes. I do not remember Deere doing this very often. For us, the smaller size was a poor seller compared to the larger, regular buckle. I have always liked this trademark since it shows a somewhat realistic deer jumping over a log. I wore one of the large buckles for a year or two (Photo 6).

I thought I would show you what

Photo 5

version buckle, a silver version, like this, and also on that year’s calendar medallion. They make a neat item to collect with the variety in versions although I do not believe I have ever seen a collection set up along these lines.

Photo 3 is an offering for the silver variant of the 1956 logo or trademark buckle. Again, this would also have been offered in a gold version.

This was a very popular buckle for me (Photo 4). The trio of four wheel drive tractors coming at you through the field was a great design. Lead-

Photo 6

Photo 7 Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 41

was on the back of these flyers. Pricing can be seen as well as any restrictions due to quantity, timeframe to order, or anything (Photo 7). In this case, the remaining buckles were being discounted 25 percent from the regular price. No doubt, Lee Wayne had slower sales than anticipated and needed to get them moved. I do not remember but I am sure I would have only ordered six of each style. At the $12 price, that still added up to around $150, which was a lot of money to spend for inventory in the 1980s.

The 8440 tractor belt buckle was

Photo 8 • Photo 9, below

Photo 10

Photo 11

another good seller for us (Photo 8).

I have talked about this before as the exposed muffler on this buckle tended to dig into a guy’s belly a bit and customers and I often laughed about that “feature.” It was a hit for Lee Wayne also as this was their best-selling belt buckle. We sold a lot of 8440 and 8640 tractors at this time so this was why the buckle was popular for us. This buckle was available in the late 1970s/early 1980s but just take a look at the price: $3.35 each! That is very inexpensive in today’s world but even back then it was a great price. When you realize that Lee Wayne’s cost was less than this, it is hard to imagine what the manufacturer’s cost to produce this buckle might have been. I would suspect somewhere around $1 or close to it. Today you would have to order many tens of thousands to get a price close to this, I would think, or maybe just check on Alibaba the Chinese supplier’s site.

Photo 9 is of a compact tractor belt buckle. Do not get me wrong, Deere’s compact tractors were one of our best-selling tractors and we loved them, but it seems that these owners, who may have also loved these tractors, were not very interested in having a belt buckle of their tractor. I can only remember ever selling two of three of these; the rest went in the parts bin. It is a good thing I had a feeling about this buckle and did not order very many.

The tractor shown is a model 750, one of the smallest compacts Deere offered.

I was talking to a former customer the other day who had pur-

chased a 750 tractor from us in the mid 1980s. He has just traded it off—on a Kubota! I did not say anything, but I did wonder why, if he had 40 years of good service from his Deere, he did not buy another John Deere. This is a good case of not brand loyalty but more than likely dealer availability. There is a Kubota dealer closer to his home than a John Deere dealer. I thought it was interesting and I wondered where his 750 would end up.

Although I am not a buckle collector, this is another one of my all-time favorites (Photo 10). It has the old two legged deer logo and is made of leather.

I liked the look of the leather and the simplistic design. I believe these were offered just before we became dealers, so I had to source one from another collector some years later to be able to have one.

The Titan series of combines was introduced in 1979 and at that time it was a radical step up in combine design. This buckle commemorated that and it was available for only $3.25 (Photo 11).

I remember when these buckles came out as the colorful epoxy style was different (Photo 12). Both the antique bronze finish and the epoxy buckles featured the NRLAD, Nothing Runs Like a Deere slogan.

Not only did you have a Titan combine belt buckle, now you had a corn head Titan version available (Photo 13).

Photo 14 is the back of the corn head buckle. If you were to order 48, you could have them for only $1.85. Crazy.

Photo 12

Photo 13 • Photo 14, below

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New Titan II combines meant new belt buckles. Here are three new pewter buckles to coincide with the arrival of the new Titan II machines (Photo 15).

These two buckles were brought out to help create awareness of John Deere engines for repower or OEM installs (Photo 16). The gold tone buckle especially was attractive, and I sold a lot of those. The bronze finish I only sold a few.

Four buckles were offered in this flyer—the Superseeder planter buckle, the 1991 buckle of the 730 two-cylinder tractor in silver, the 60 series of row crops and a nice colorful trademark

Photo 15

buckle featuring the old two legged deer logo (Photo 17). When I saw these, I thought to myself, Lee Wayne must be overstocked on these and trying to move them out!

Photo 18 was a full-page flyer dealing with the new for 1992 “All New Breed of Power” 6000 and 7000 series of tractors. This shows the variety of products Lee Wayne was authorized

by Deere to offer to dealers—buckles, key tags, money clips, eraser boards, and lapel pins. The number of items offered is what makes it fun to collect today. It is very difficult to come up with all items that were brought out for a particular campaign. Try finding one of these New Breed eraser boards; it will be very hard, I guarantee you. That is what makes it challenging and fun when you collect John Deere memorabilia. Wait a minute—challenging?

Maybe I should say maddening!

This is a fun page. For each buckle that you could order, a matching key ring was also offered. Buckles can be tough to locate but try finding the matching key ring. All four sets of these would make a tremendous display in a collection (Photo 19).

Another multiple buckle order (Photo 20). Most of these flyers are not dated and unless a date is mentioned,

Photo 16

Photo 17 • Photo 18, below Photo 19

Photo 20

it can be hard to figure one out. In this case, I know it is fairly early, at least in terms of the buckles we have been looking at. The leather buckle is listed here, and the dead giveaway is the snowmobile buckle, second from the bottom. The snowmobile buckle was not offered after the early 1980s and we know the leather buckle was early also. The trademark buckle at the top is another one I encountered early on after we bought the dealership in 1976 so these are all earlier buckles. A nice line up, I think.

Wow! This is a whole page of buckles (Photo 21). Some are ones we saw on other forms like the three Titan II buckles on the left, the compact utility and the four trademark buckles, but a few we have not seen yet. The leadership buckle is a good one as is the cotton picker and the hay tools buckle. The one I really like and remember though is the industrial buckle in the top right-hand corner.

What I liked about this one was the fact it was made of wood and the design is laser etched into the wood.

It is an attractive buckle and the old two legged deer logo shows up well in the upper left of the buckle.

This buckle was nickel plated; I guess I had thought it was chrome (Photo 22). The deer really stood out on this one and I had a customer who wore one all the time. $2.25 each. Come on!

This is just a small sampling of the many buckles Deere has offered over the years. It is interesting that in the hobby, many collectors have some buckles but not too many really identify themselves as buckle collectors. As a rule, today buckles do not

Photo 21 Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 43

Photo 22 seem to bring very much money when they are sold, unless it is something really unusual or old. I have thought about this and cannot come up with a reason. I think the main timeframe for buckle collecting was in the 1980s and 1990s possibly. I have mentioned before that at one time, there was a magazine called Buckle Buddies put out that dealt with all buckles, not just John Deere. I think Deere dealers were given complimentary copies as I do not remember ever subscribing. Believe me, there were buckles and then some, thousands of different buckles covering everything, not just John Deere.

Buckle Buddies only made it from 1980 to 1989 and another magazine, Basically Buckles, was published from 1989 to 1993. There were even a few buckle collecting clubs at this time.

There is still interest today but nowhere near the levels of the 1980s and 1990s.

It is just the way it is, I suppose. Think Beanie Babies.

I also want to take the time to talk about Lee Wayne Company a bit. From what I could find out, Lee

Page 44 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Wayne began sometime in the late 1950s and their business was providing advertising and advertising solutions. I do not know how this works but at some point, Lee Wayne was awarded the John Deere contract. An earlier supplier/company was NMH I believe their name was?

A national account like John Deere is very important to an advertising company and when an account like this is lost, often the company cannot recover. The same happened with Lee Wayne and they eventually merged or rebranded as a company named Halo.

Halo continues to this day but there is no mention of Lee Wayne anywhere.

The rumor I heard was that someone high up at Deere had gone to college with someone who had a competing advertising company and finally this company was chosen as the supplier for Deere, which meant Lee Wayne lost the Deere contract. After decades, Lee Wayne was out. I have no idea if this is true or not, but it does make for an interesting story!

Time marches on and this company also went out of business and was replaced. During my time as a dealer, we mainly dealt with Lee Wayne, then others such as Cary Francis Group, Promac, and Cyrk. All of these companies are no longer in business.

Advertising is a brutal and cutthroat business obviously. There have always been other suppliers for smaller items, but these were the main central suppliers. Companies like KProducts, Lousiville Manufacturing, SpecCast, Ertl of course and other companies supplied specialized products such as hats, coats, uniforms and toys.

Today it appears that Deere’s main supplier is Staples. Yes, that is right, Staples. Michael Walker Company appears to be a Canadian supplier. I will state now that the advertising specialties I have seen that are available recently are nowhere near as creative as what Lee Wayne offered—or even Cary Francis Group. It is too bad; I used to get really excited to see what new products Lee Wayne had come up with and then to offer them to my customers. When I looked at what Staples has available today or even other suppliers, there just did not seem to be anything of real interest to me. I suppose times change and so does this business.

Back to Lee Wayne. For almost all of the years I ordered from Lee Wayne, my account representative was Miki.

We talked countless times when I was ordering, and I really appreciated how she helped and took care of me over the years. I have no idea what happened to her when Lee Wayne merged but I hope things went well. To finish up this article, I want to share one more picture. It is Miki, in the foreground.

Until next month!

Write Greg Stephen at The Old Tractor Company, Box 89, Franktown, CO 80116; phone 231-846-8243 or email deeredr@hotmail.com

The 46th annual National Farm Toy Show was held in Dyersville, Iowa back in November. I have been fortunate enough to be able to attend this show somewhere in the neighborhood of 30 times. A good friend of mine, Stann Schultz, was along once again.

The two of us have traveled to the National Show at least 20 times in last 30 years. While my interest is in farm toys, Stann is an avid Tonka truck collector, primarily of the toys produced in the 1950s and 1960s. Every year, both of us seem to find something for our collections. However, the best part of the trip is spending time together talking about toy collecting and any topics that come to mind. We usually leave on the Thursday before the show to visit with some of the outdoor vendors and the local antique mall.

On Friday, we purchase floor rights tickets and get into the show at 2 p.m.

We run through everything again on Saturday morning and then head for home. It is always a great trip and it is nice to be immersed in the hobby for a couple of days.

For the last couple of years, a second show has popped up in Dubuque, Iowa, immediately before the National. The Builders and Collectors Society has a three-day show at the Dubuque County fairgrounds.

While this is also a toy show, the focus is on helping younger collectors gain an interest in the farm toy collecting hobby. Stann and I stopped at this show on Thursday afternoon while on our way to the hotel in Dubuque. Several items caught my attention. First was a motorized (radio controlled or RC)

version of a John Deere 9620 RX tractor with a customized front blade (Photo 1). The tractor could move forward and reverse and it was steerable. The front blade raised and lowered and could be angled from side to side. It appears that this project started from an Ertl tractor and someone added a customized blade, the necessary motors, and the radio controls. Other collectors had RC trucks, all of which were in a separate room where they could be operated.

Several other custom models were on display. Photo 2 shows what appears to be a 1/8th scale 8630 tractor.

It included a detailed engine area and cab interior. The same builder also had an 8640 and 8850 tractor manufactured to the same scale. On the high end of the spectrum was this 4440 (Photo 3) built by T&D Customs of Browntown, Wisconsin. The tractor is a working

unit that appears to be built to approximately one-half scale. I don’t know what the price tag was or if it was even for sale. One final item to note from this show is an old poster that features John Deere toys (Photo 4). This would have been printed in the very early 1960s based on what

Photo 3 • Photo 4, below

Photo 1 • Photo 2, below

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 45

is shown. The overall condition was good, but there were some water spots near the top. Otherwise, there were no rips or other issues. It was not for sale, but likely would have brought a large price if it were. Regardless, it was a really neat item to see.

Modified or custom built tractors and implements have been a part of the National Show for as long as I can Photo 5 • Photo 6, below remember. This year had a large number of them as well. Photo 5 shows one example as an Ertl 6600 combine that was modified to include tracks on the front. Handrails, lights, a six-row corn head, and other details were added.

The asking price was $300. Several custom “dual” tractors were available from another toy dealer (Photo 6). Included here was an “AR,” 80, 820, and 2510. “Steering” cylinders, hydraulic lines, and wheel weights were added engine, operator’s controls, steering to each. The model “AR” unit had a wheel, access steps, and wheels were left their normal colors. The asking price tag of $160.

Another dealer had many cus- price for this unit was $895. I continue tom built toys from several manufac- to wonder why anyone would want turers. I was immediately drawn to something like this, especially at that several large (most likely 1/8th scale) price, but there is room in this hobby tractors. He had a Waterloo Boy, WA- for all tastes and incomes.

And, there seems to be a real in17, 4455, and two 6030 tractors, one of which is shown in Photo 7. While I terest in “chrome” and “gold” tractors. thought these were really neat models, Ertl has been randomly inserting minI had no intention of buying one, but iatures with these types of finishes in had to know the asking price. The the cases of some models for the last few 6030 tractors were priced at $7,500 years. They are referred to as “chase” each! Only a very limited number of units. Due to the relative scarcity, the collectors would be willing to spend asking prices are through the roof. A couple of examples are shown in Photo that kind of money.

With yet another dealer, there 11. On the top is a gold 4620 Prestige were some interesting modified toys. tractor. The regular toy is available for First is a model 8020 Ertl Precision approximately $100. This chase unit tractor that was made into an 8010 was priced at $3,000. Below is a gold (Photos 8 and 9). From what I could see Precision 7520. The regular version of with the tractor still in the package, the this miniature retails for approximately exhaust stack was painted silver rather $375 to $400 right now. The gold chase than black, the air intake was lowered, unit had a price of $5,600! the seat was modified, and Photo 9 the front end was changed so Photo 8 that the head lights are above the radiator grille rather than behind it. This modified tractor had an asking price of $695. Photo 10 shows an Ertl Prestige 5010 tractor that someone “chromed” all of the sheet metal. The Page 46 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Photo 7 While at the show, I also noticed an increase in the number of models and parts made through the 3-D printing process. A couple of vendors had complete tractors and implements made with 3-D printing. The material is usually a type of plastic, and the size and types of parts that can be made are dependent on the resin used and the size and capabilities of the 3-D printer. Photos 12 and 13 provide some examples. These are all 1/64th scale miniatures and the lineup includes model “B,” 70, 830, 3020, 4020, and 5010 tractors. These were painted after they were printed. The price tag on the 830 tractors was $120. I thought that was too much for the size and overall quality of the miniatures.

The detail was really very good, but there just wasn’t the same sharpness in the plastic as we typically see with die-cast metal.

I included Photo 14 to provide some idea of the size of this show. It is a view of the gym attached to the National Farm Toy Museum and was taken from the second floor of the museum before the show opened. The gym and the entire high school in Dyersville also have vendors, along with many outdoor vendors in several locations. Some of the toys for sale with a vendor in the museum gym are shown in Photo 15. Most included original

Photo 10 • Photo 11, below

boxes. The prices were extremely high, in my opinion, but to each his own.

As the name indicates, this is a show. So, the expectation is that some collectors have part of their collections on display. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of displays at this year’s National. There were at least 20, most of which were in 1/64th scale. One really neat display is shown in Photo 16. This was a set of 1/32nd scale miniatures that had been customized and weatherized. Included were a John Deere 5820 self-propelled chopper (Photo 17), John Deere 3120 tractor, and a Brigant forage wagon.

The amount and quality of details on

Photo 15 • Photo 16, below

Photo 12 • Photo 13, below

Photo 14

Photo 17 • Photo 18, below

these miniatures was incredible. They were made and displayed by Georges Le Bras, who traveled to Dyersville from France! I talked with him for about 15 minutes to learn more about him and his modeling process. He was an extremely kind and friendly person and I thanked him for making the trip and sharing his talents with those of us in the United States. Georges ultimately received a second place trophy in the “large scale” division at the National.

I noticed a few other “weatherized” models being offered for sale.

A couple of examples are shown in Photo 18. In addition to the 8020 and 9RX tractors, the seller also had a 4620, WA-14, and WA-17. It takes a special talent to be able to get the colors just right so that the tractor looks old and used, without being overdone. Ertl is getting deeper into this game as well with the chase units for some of their upcoming toys. Rather than being painted gold or silver, the chase units for their 8RX 340 and 8R 340 Prestige tractors will be “muddy,” essentially looking like they have been at work in the field for a couple of days.

Overall, this year’s National Farm Toy Show was very good. There was plenty to see and there were tons of toys for sale. And, it was great to have so many displays this year as compared to the last few years. I did notice that prices continue to be on the rise and I really didn’t see as many nice, old original toys from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. That’s likely just a product of the vendors that were there and what they chose to sell. For those planning ahead, it looks like next year’s show will be on November 1, 2, and 3.

Next month, I plan to share a new miniature of a tractor from the 1960s.

Until then, try to attend a local farm toy show and share the hobby with others. The toys are really a means to connect people with common interests, and why collect if you can’t share it with others? Enjoy.

Contact Bill Proft at N1366 Woodland Dr., Greenville, WI 54942 or email billproft@sbcglobal.net Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 47

Greetings everyone and Happy New Year. It seems hard to believe how quickly time passes. As we have often said in our articles, we try to prepare them quickly and on time so that we can have everything sent in to the editor(s) and they in turn can get things off to the printers. As we prepare this article, it is late November, the day before Thanksgiving as a matter of fact. Just an FYI here, Jo Anne is taking over the reins for the first part of this article. We always have a list of priorities and today we needed to do a small road trip to purchase some real Christmas trees and wreaths. Getting what we need from the local “on the street corner” tree lot here in town just doesn’t always measure up to my standards since quite often those trees have been cut quite some time ago.

And you are wondering WHY we are going for Christmas trees the day before Thanksgiving? Simply put, I do Photo 1 my decorating after Thanksgiving, all things completed typically by the first weekend in December. I am NOT a shopper in the true sense of the word when it comes to Black Friday.

The whole Black Friday thing, it seems to me, has evolved into Photo 2 • 3, below the whole month of November, and it’s best if you can be in line at the store on Friday morning before the store is even open to acquire something that is now 50 percent off, made in China, and the recipient likely doesn’t need it in the first place.

But at least you have your shopping list narrowed; now on to look for the next “bargain.” Race down the street, fight for the perfect parking spot and so goes the day. It’s crazy to us when 5 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving is the reason you are out of bed and on your way to the store, Page 48 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

but 9 a.m. on Sunday morning to attend church is inconvenient! Anyway, THAT is why we did our road trip the day BEFORE Thanksgiving. We do very little gift giving, but decorating…that’s a whole different matter.

Now, on with some pictures and a bit of explanation. We drove to a little town about 45 minutes north and west of our home in Oshkosh to a tree farm in Wild Rose. On the way, we went through a small village called Auroraville. We passed the grain terminal where Ron Photo 4 gets our seeds and granular fertilizer every spring (Photo 1). It was a fantastic day to be going for a country drive (Photos 2 and 3) and there was VERY little traffic. We arrived at our destination at 9 a.m. and successfully found everything we needed—two Photo 5 • 6, below perfect eight to nine foot freshly cut Frazier firs that were shaken on a special machine to remove any errant needles, and then carefully wrapped to a diameter of approximately 18 inches for easy transport. We selected some wreaths and loaded everything in the back of our little truck (Photo 4). We went inside to pay and we DID have to check out the little gift shop (Photo 5) to purchase that one special ornament (Photo 6) to have as a remembrance of this trip. We arrived back home mid-morning unscathed or trampled by any crazed shoppers with absolutely no

Photo 7 plans to go anywhere on Black Friday. And now here is Ron… Thanksgiving Day 2023— a beautiful cool sunny day. With our church service attended on Wednesday evening, and with the invitation to stop over to Photo 8 • 9, below our neighbors for a Friendsgiving meal and comradery and get-together this afternoon, I just could not help putting an end to this year’s final field job. On purpose, I had left a small strip of unplowed area in the field where I could spread yard leaves and debris, and also goat pen “goodies” and used bedding. I decided to call this part of the article “The Last Furrow” because after this escapade, the field work is DONE for the year!

Let’s start with the final load from the old No. 10 spreader and our 420 (Photo 7). The fall season this year has been a pleasure and easy to get things done with dry weather for the most part. There is just something about the sound of a two-cylinder Deere and the clicking and clacking of an old spreader that is music to our ears. What a pleasure; too bad there isn’t a channel on the radio that plays this music. Next, let’s “put a fork in it” with the ’49 “A” and a No. 60 plow (Photos 8 and 9). Again, the weather this fall and today has been ideal with an occasional rain event but mostly sunny days. This has left the soil in great shape regarding moisture for an old tractor and plow to get the job finished. Can you tell by now that I am counting my blessings?

The next item that I am thankful for is the fact that the John Deere 955 diesel engine project that I became involved with has turned out very well. Since the repairs, the tractor has about 12 hours of run time on it, doing odd jobs and some loader work. A big thank you to all the folks out there from all parts of the country that contacted me about places to find what I needed for this repair project. Your advice and information that you passed along were very helpful.

I even had a manual sent to me from Dennis Shanks. He went out of his way to get in touch with us through the

staff at Green Magazine. We responded to his email and accepted his generous offer of the manual and offered to send him some sort of payment and/ or the shipping. This was his response…

“I will box up this manual Photo 10 • 11, below and send it to Ron right away.

I very much enjoy Ron’s articles. They are the first thing I read (just before Mr. Thinker, which I am sure Ron participates in, too). I have learned so much from Ron’s articles over the years that I feel I owe you both the manual and the small postage. So no charge for postage. As far as me, not much to tell. We have owned our small horse farm for 31 years, but now have retired from that as well as air traffic control. We used our 955 for a number of years to help with the horses Photo 12 but upgraded that to a 4600 in 2001, which I still have. I love old JD iron and have restored both a 1937 “B” and my dad’s 1925 “E” engine (which my grandson has claimed). Interestingly I think we have more tied up in the rebuild of the “E” than the “B,” but it runs very well now. We show both at the Illinois steam show in Sycamore, Illinois in August. If you ever get down here, please look me up (or please let me know and I will look you up). Have a wonderful day.

Dennis Shanks” This manual sent to us free of charge is just one example to prove that there still ARE good people left in the world! For now, about the only thing left to find for the 955 is a front grill (Photos 10 and 11). I have been informed by one fellow that I will never find one anywhere…but we will see.

So, why is the tractor back in the shop? Well, I need to change the engine’s break-in oil and filter. While I am at it, I will change the hydrostatic transmissions’ oil and filter and also the diesel fuel filter. The tractor has only one very small fuel filter (Photo 12). I think THAT is a mistake.

To my way of thinking, this should be the primary filter followed by a small spin-on one, but I didn’t design the thing. As you can see, the replacement filter pictured is very dark and probably ready to restrict the fuel flow. The cost from John Deere is $11…not bad.

I drained the transmission oil (about 4-1/2 gallons) and replaced the filter. That filter is on the front end of the transmission and must be accessed from below. A rather large spin-on filter it is (Photo 13), and because of its large openings (Photo 14) and general makeup, I think that one Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 49

could only find this item lot of these units in stock from a John Deere dealerin the southern states, but ship. The cost for it was shipping to have one sent about $30. If changing to me would add quite a this and the fluid keeps bit to the bill. I learned the hydro working as that the official outlet for it does now, it’s a good these machines in our and even inexpensive Photo 13 • 14, below state is Fleet Farm. So doinvestment. ing some phone research, All in all, I have to my investigation to find say that these are pretty one was underway. None nifty little tractors and of the nearby stores had are very useful in many a 72-inch mower such as ways and situations, but this on hand; some had it’s hard for an old fogy smaller ones. The larglike me to get used to a est Fleet Farm store in diesel engine that idles at 1,200 RPM our state is north of us in Appleton, and runs up to 3,400 RPM to make its Wisconsin. After I phoned them and power. The 18.1 compression makes waited for a return call, they informed a lot of noise that’s just not soothing me that they had one of the size and to what is left of my hearing. But I am specifications that I was looking for not the one who is going to be using in stock. Now I no longer do much it the most. I am getting it ready for “roady” stuff any longer, much less the my best girl Jo Anne to push snow kind where I am pulling an implement out of the driveway this winter (if/ trailer down Interstate 41 to pick up when I am on another assignment) something in a busy city. This would and then next summer, I have a big- have to be the exception. ger job in mind for this 955. We mow Let me just say here that I cana lot of grass, both at the farm and not figure out where everybody is our residence, with approximately going and in such a big hurry, but six acres there at our residence. I can I hope that they get there without handle the grass mowing at the farm killing themselves or someone else. with multiple choices of machines, I additionally do not know why so but in an effort to reduce that mow- many need to test their horns to see ing time at our home for my bride, I if they work when they are around thought that it would be a good idea me…especially in a roundabout!? I did to purchase one of those three-point make the trip with the mower in one rear mounted finish mowers for the piece back to the farm. Here then is 955. Researching what is out there for the 72-inch mower (Photo 15) as of yet these units this time of the year and unassembled, that I will mate up with the cost, I decided that a 72-inch cut the 955 to do some serious mowing would work well behind the tractor when the season comes around again. and its horsepower should handle it. And besides, that $2,000 was eatin’ a Some of these mowers discharge the hole in my pocket anyway. grass out one side of the mower. I don’t Speaking of trailers and towing think that’s a good idea; if you cut 72 things, when we wrote about the inciinches of (for instance) a five-inch tall grass and blow it all out just one side Photo 15 of the mower, I am afraid that you will leave grass windrows.

For that reason and a few others, I decided to look at purchasing a King Kutter brand mower. Since this thing is out of season around here, perhaps I could find one nearby that I could haul home on my trailer. There are a Page 50 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

dent late this past summer regarding the two large grain hauling wagons that came unhooked, crossed the road in front of our house, and overturned in our ditch and front lawn, that topic has stirred up a lot of controversy in both magazines that we do articles for.

All is well on our front; no one was hurt, our ditch and lawn have been repaired by us, and our front lawn now has that two-colored texture… where the front lawn grass is, and that now really PLUSH area where the wheat was spilled. It makes for good conversation!

Recently a magazine reader reached out to Green Magazine and us concerning the article. He took the time to send us his experience regarding a situation such as the episode on our front lawn. We are sharing his exact words for all to read because we feel that it is THAT important. The following is written by Ron Doe from Texas: “Richard, I love Ron O’Neill’s columns and look forward to meeting him at Classic Green Reunion 2025. His article on hitch pins was very good and should make all of us think twice before using that old beat-up hitch pin to ‘go just down the road a little bit.’ I believe his article needs to be expanded to cover safety chains when towing trailers. The following story will illustrate why. Please forward this email to him.

“I had never used safety chains when towing equipment, figuring if it came loose, it would swerve over to the right-of-way, turn over in the bottom of the ditch and not harm my pickup or anyone or anything else. In most cases, the odds were that this was a correct presumption—trailer comes loose, turns over in the ditch or hits a fence—no harm done. However, in the event that the odds were against that outcome, it can become a deadly event. A good friend of mine runs a land leveling/dirt moving business in south Texas. They do a lot of work in the ‘Brush Country,’ land between the Nueces and Rio Grande Rivers, clearing land, building tanks and roads, constructing building sites. The Brush Country is sparsely populated—just

big ranches connected by two lane Farm-to-Market roads, bordered by miles of barbed wire fences, clear rightof-ways, occasionally interrupted by a gated cattle guard or fancy ranch entrance to pastures. One evening after work, they were headed back into town for dinner and to spend the night, towing a fuel trailer to refill with diesel for the next day’s work. All of a sudden, the trailer, no longer hitched to the truck, is careening through the right-of-way out of control. Normally, this would not be a big deal, trailer breaks loose, heads for the ditch, turns over, go back, pick up the pieces and proceed to town. Unfortunately, this was one of those random spots where a gate leads to a ranch. A rancher had just pulled through the gate, had gotten out of the truck to close and lock the gate—at the same time as the fuel trailer broke loose. The trailer struck the man, killing him. A terrible tragedy has just occurred, setting off all of the activities that follow an accidental death of a loved one—sadness, grief, guilt, loss of loved one, lawsuits, insurance settlements, etc. The hitch pin was never found; it is not known if it bounced out or broke. Had the fuel trailer been secured to the truck with a safety chain, it might have torn up the truck, but it would not have taken off, out of control, to strike someone, killing them. Ever since this accident, I always connect safety chains when towing trailers or other equipment to prevent a tragic accident.

“While you can tell people how to work safely, it takes an accident like this to make them take safety seriously, especially if they place themselves and their families into that scenario.

Hopefully, people will take heed of the potential consequences and use safety chains. Please consider an addendum to your hitch pin article to include the use of safety chains when towing equipment. Respectfully yours, “Ron Dow, Seguin, TX” There it is, shared for a reason if you read the whole letter—enough said? In summary, to end the chatter about this topic, just take your time when hooking things up to be towed

Photo 18 • Photo 19, below Photo 16 • Photo 17, below

down the road, and yes, snap on those safety chains. I certainly did when I was on the road with my trailer (Photo 16).

On November 6, we were delighted to have a short visit from our tractor friends from Fairfax, Minnesota. Mark and Cindy Reike (Photo 17) were heading home from northern Illinois where they had visited their daughter and son-in-law and decided to veer off the road a bit and pay a visit to us. If you remember, the 55 John Deere combine that I now have came from Mark and Cindy a few years ago.

It was great to see them both even though it was just a short visit since they still had six to seven hours left to drive in order to get back to their home in Minnesota that same day. The only request that Mark had for me was to see his beloved old combine, and to give me a grade on how I was taking care of old Cathy, the combine (Photo 18). As luck would have it, the day before they stopped in, I had just finished combining our corn and

I had cleaned “her” up really well. It was parked in the machine shed in its winter spot with the hopper nearly full of corn. After a short inspection, Mark gave me an “A” for taking care of his old combine, and with a tear in his eye, said, “I miss her, but I am glad that she’s got a good home.”

Mark is a farmer, a mechanic, and an avid member of the Prairieland Flywheelers tractor club. This past summer, the Reikes hosted another one of those threshing events that they have become famous for on their farm.

The attendance, I am told, was more than 100 and the feature tractor to run on the thresher was this 1923 Waterloo Boy (Photo 19). It is a family heirloom owned by the Greg Grausam family.

Mark is the young man on the left in the bib overalls in Photo 19 and Greg is on the right.

Until we meet again, our wishes for you in this New Year—may good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam. May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures. May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours.

This column is written by Ron and Jo Anne O’Neill.

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 51

In the November issue, we began a search for a No. 5 mower with foot lift.

They seem to have been quite popular, something I should have realized since the No. 5 mower predated the time when most tractors had hydraulics.

We received quite a number of entries,

but the first was from Claude Palmerton of Fowlerville, Michigan, who happens to currently be restoring the No. 5 mower with foot footlift that he first mowed a field of hay with over 60 years ago. For being the first to get a photo to us, Claude gets one year added to his subscription.

Gary Fox of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa was this month’s runner-up.

Bob Pelzel of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota came in third.

Do you have one?

Green Magazine’s email and postal addresses for entries: email: info@greenmagazine.com mail: GreenMagazine PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095 Page 52 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Darrel Sperry sent us a photo from a front perspective.

Thanks

to all who send in entries for

d o yo u h av e one?

Nick Raudabaugh of Pine City, Minnesota has a new old stock foot lever.

Others sending in entries were David Fiala, Nathan Murrell, David Burkland, Randy Brandt, Vance Bode, Michael Anderson, Paul Birkeland, John Wright, Bob Collins, Charles Mecke, Martin Perry, Max Mance, Ed Brenner, Peter Judkins, Phil Johnson and Gary Griesse.

The item we are going to look for next was at the time labeled the “No. 4 Tractor Cultivator,” though today we would more likely call it a subsoiler. Sales literature from the day said that it could be used to break up soil from six to 16 inches deep, though it could be worked to a depth of 22 inches. Not exactly sure what they are trying to say there, but the point is it could be used to break up hardpan as deep as you could pull it. Up to five shanks could be installed, which would have given Deere’s most powerful tractor of the late 1930s, the model “D,” all or more than it could handle. More than likely, many of these machines were pulled with crawlers. Different types of chisel points, middle breakers, and even discs were also available.

Do you have a No. 4 Tractor Cultivator (see below)? If so, be the first to get a photo of it, and yourself to us and we will add one year to your subscription.

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 53

Two cylinders and grandkids:

What is not to like?

The Schlomann John Deere Collector Auction was a fun one to check out. It featured a couple of four bolt John Deere “B” tractors. From serial numbers 1000-3042, the “Bs” had a four bolt front pedestal, meaning only 2,042 “Bs” were made this way, making them very collectible.

in good running condition sold for a bid of $8,100!

Keeping with the model “B,” there is another unique one on this sale. This one is a 1939 model with a No. 26 rear mounted manure loader.

Serial number 60595, this nice little “B” has good rubber and paint and runs well. Sold! $7,900.

First on this sale was serial number 2841. It has factory round spoked rear wheels. Even with a stuck engine and front cut off rims, this “B” still reached a price of $3,200.

But this sale has another four bolter. This one in completely restored condition. The 1935 model, serial number 1538, with factory round spokes all the way around, new rubber, and

Page 54 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Here is a SWEET unstyled tractor from the Schlomann sale. This 1935 “AW” featured fenders, factory round rear spokes, all new rubber and Behlen overdrive. This one sold for a pretty penny. The final bid was $9,700.

Oh, how about one more from this sale? It is a “GPO.” All steel wheels and no fenders. Engine is stuck. One

of 717. PTO attachment. Even with a stuck engine and no fenders, this rare machine was worth $5,500 to someone.

For a little “GP” comparison, next I have one from the Richard Aissen Estate Auction. I found this to be a nice looking tractor although it was advertised apparently not running, although the engine was loose. It was a “GP.” If you were looking for a “GP,” this would have been a good buy. SOLD! $1,200.

For all of 2023 we celebrated the model “D”—100 years old, you know!

The Lake Erie Consignment Auction produced a couple “Ds.” The first was a styled “D,” hand start, with rubber listed as 40. Not much else was said about the tractor, no serial number was given, but it was a runner and someone wanted it! The gavel fell at substantial bid of $7,000!

The second—another styled “D.” This one was a 1949 model with electric start, steel wheels, PTO and

working lights! You have heard me say it before but it is my favorite version of the “D.” I love the styled models with electric start. This one having steel wheels, oh, and working lights, is an eyecatcher for me! High bid on this one…$6,500!

The Lake Erie Consignment did not stop there. One of the next tractors on the auction block was a 1936 unstyled “AR” tractor, serial number 251502. The hand start “AR” was advertised with 90 percent with some dry rot. The “good running AR” sold for an even $5,000.

Finally, a 1949 “MC” crawler, serial number 10665, with an older restoration. The little crawler has a new final drive, 12 inch steel tracks, and working belt pulley and PTO. It was totally rebuilt from the ground up with new steering clutches and all.

The crawler sold for a price of $5,000.

I would like to see the receipts from the work that was advertised to have been done!

Finally, I want to end with a little story of my own. One of the highlights of this past weekend was seeing my grandson, Callan. My son, Heath, came up to the farm to help me put up some steel on a shed I am building. He brought my 3-1/2 year old grandson, Callan, along. Did I mention Callan loves tractors?

I recently bought a 1942 “B” John Deere tractor at the Leonard and Tillie Janousek estate sale near Greenbush, Minnesota. The sale was conducted

by McMullen Auctioneers. I was able to purchase the “B” for $310! It had been sitting outside for a while, but the motor was not stuck and the rear tires were like new. I thought great, my mom had a 1942 “B” that my grandfather bought new and I would love to restore. The “B” I purchased had a complete carburetor, magneto, as well as an “uncut” hood. These would be great parts to help restore my mom’s old “B.” And those nearly new tires… they would go great on many of my tractors! I got the tractor home and left it on the trailer. After a few days, I decided to unload it and looked it over a little better. You know, that “B” looks pretty nice, maybe too nice to part out!

I tried to pull it off the trailer but one of the rear wheels was locked up.

(The auctioneer had loaded it with a skid steer.) It was a brake, I decided, so I squirted some WD-40 on it and

in the little lubricating opening on the brake but no use. I tugged it off the trailer with the 4640 and, lo and behold, as it got to the ground, the brake became “unstuck”! After completing some chores, I hooked the Ranger to the little “B” and pulled it in the heated garage to look it over some more! I turned the motor over with the flywheel and it seems to have decent compression. Next, I took off the magneto cover and it also looked pretty clean, but while I was turning it over, I checked and there was no spark.

I took some emery cloth to the points and what do you know—it kicked out some great spark. Finally, I looked at the carb and it is okay, reasonably clean. I told my son, Heath, you know, it just might start!

My grandson, Callan, came out in the garage and I said, “Do you want to sit on grandpa’s little ‘B’?” Of course, he said, “YES!” I told him, “If this old “B” starts, I am going to give it to you, Callan!” So later he referred to it as “his” “B”! Nothing would make me happier. I haven’t had time to run a little gas through it, but if it starts, Callan has his first John Deere! Aren’t grandkids fun!

If you see any Deeres coming up for auction, please let me know with an email: mickelsonauctions@gmail. com. Happy auctioning!

Email Eric W. Mickelson at mickelsonauctions@gmail.com Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 55

G’day, mates!

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and 2024 is going great. Our family received an early Christmas gift. Maris, our beautiful daughter, moved from Canada to live here and attend the university. She had been employed as a dental assistant in Ontario.

Her duties were instrument sterilization and assisting the dentist with all dental fillings and repairs. When I was a kid in Ontario in the 1970s, the dentist did the dental cleaning and repairs. I do not remember the actual dates, but as time went on, dentists added dental hygienists to their business.

The hygienist’s role is dental cleaning and teaching patients about oral hygiene. Still today in Australia, my dentist does all

the work with the help of an assistant.

Hygienists are just starting to be added to dental businesses here.

Bush fire on November 17.

Maris.

Page 56 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Maris decided to attend Griffith University here in the Queensland city referred to as the Gold Coast for the bachelor of dental hygiene program.

The program starts in March 2024 and is a three-year term. We are so happy to have her here with us.

What a difference a month makes, especially in Australia. As I write this at the end of November 2023, the weather has completely

turned around. As I have been told, Australia is renowned for crippling droughts, horrific wild bush fires and torrential floods. Well, that can be certainly said for 2023. Since I arrived back from Canada in early October, we have had approximately six inches of rain. Most of that rain, five inches, fell from November 18 until November 30 on our property. The week before the rain started in November, our community suffered from several wild bush fires. These fires are usually lit by property owners or lightening from storms.

The fires that are lit by property owners are to burn off the old brown grass in cattle fields/paddocks. The issue is that while the fires are burning, the wind speed picks up and pushes the fires to the point of being out of control. This was the case on November 14, as a lit fire was pushed by strong winds and became out of control. There were 14 fire crews on site to battle the blaze.

These crews are mostly local town volunteer crews, from the Rural Fire Service, which are stationed in all the rural areas of Australia with off road fire fighting vehicles. All fire fighters here are referred to as “Firies.” The fire was mostly contained, but due to

the hilly terrain in our area, some of the fire burned in areas that were not accessible and continued to burn.

On November 17, which is my birthday, the winds picked up again.

This pushed the fires that were still burning out of control again. Affected were the hilly areas to the south of the only road into our town from the highway. Due to the smoke and fire, the only option for the emergency services was to close the road into town from 3 p.m. until 11 p.m. Homes in the southeast corner of town were seriously in danger of being burned by the wildfires. The Firies were able to contain the fires near the houses and all were saved. Aerial pictures after the fire showed one property that was in the path of the fire. A new house was built in 2022 on the property. The whole

crawler and use it for the job. I started the 420 without any issue and it idled nice. I opened up the throttle to halfway to full speed and the engine ran on one cylinder. Opened the throttle to wide open and sputtered and missed and stay running mostly on one cylinder. My memory came back to me that it was doing this same performance when I finished doing all the engine repairs and charging system back several months ago. I figured it was just a poor spark plug at the time and forgot about the issue.

Well, the issue had not forgotten about me! So, I got in the seat of the 420 and attempted to drive it over to the shop to have a look at the engine.

I tried to drive in second gear. It had absolutely no power. My late father would have commented that it did not

haust valve issue, I really was not sure I had replaced the distributor cap with a new one. I reinstalled the old cap and tried it again. Still ran on one cylinder at any point above idle.

I thought I would try to use it and hoped the engine would “come good.”

That is the Aussie term for something that was not working and then started working again. I drove the crawler up to the gravel laneway in first gear, but at any time when speeding up the engine, it would run on one cylinder.

After a few minutes, I decided it was hopeless trying to use it, so I drove it back down to the shop. I also remembered that when I did the work a few months ago on the engine, I found that the governor to carburetor linkage rod was quite sloppy in the ball joint on the governor end of the rod.

No. 2 spark plug lead grounding on cylinder head.

420 crawler. area around the new house was black and the house still stood, thanks to the Firies. The following day, the rain started falling and has not stopped. It is amazing to drive through the area after the fire and see the area and fields that burned. The fields that burned are all green as fresh grass has sprouted out of the roots of the plants.

The gravel laneway at our property had become rough and needed to be leveled. I figured it was a good chance to fire up my John Deere 420

have the power to pull the old cluck hen off her nest of eggs! I was able to get it to drive itself into the shop in first gear. I worked it out, using a pliers to remove the plug wires from the distributor cap, that it was the rear cylinder that was not firing. I left the hood on and maneuvered a spark plug socket and ratchet into place and was able to get the spark plug out easily. The plug still looked fine, but I changed it with a new plug.

I restarted the engine, and it ran the same. It had me kind of scratching my head.

Maybe it was an intake or ex-

Maybe I goofed up the linkage at the time as well.

The next morning, I took some time to try to get to the bottom of the issue. I removed the nose, hood, and the air cleaner assembly so I could access the governor speed linkage. When I restarted the tractor after the hood was removed, it still ran on one cylinder. I walked around to the right side of the engine while it was running and immediately found my issue. The spark plug wire for number two cylinder was too long and the steel connector on the plug was sitting about 1/16th inch from the cylinder head. The spark for Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 57

that cylinder was taking the path of least resistance and a bright spark was seen on each hit of the rotor at the cylinder head surface! I stopped the engine and rotated the wire, so the steel plug connector was perpendicular to the engine.

I restarted the engine, and it ran perfect! The plug wires were still an older set, so they have been on a long time. I guess I twisted the wire a different way when I changed the plug months ago. I ended up cutting the wire a little shorter so that it cannot contact the cylinder head again.

After I had the spark issue fixed, I moved onto the governor rod. I figured that there will be a correct procedure for setting the length of the rod. I looked in my 420 service manual for the information. In the governor sections, it mentioned the linkage setting, but I needed to refer to the model 40 service manual. I am not sure why John Deere did this, but I suppose back in the day when these tractors were new, the only people with the service manuals would have Purchased riveting tool. been the dealerships. John Deere decided that there was no need to and shafts came out easily. What a mess duplicate that information into things were inside the brakes. If readers the 420 service manual. I checked remember, this model “B” was owned out the linkage adjustment proceby my friend, Peter Sands, and had dure, and it was very similar to the been through that flash flood in 2011.

Waterloo built tractors. I removed The tractor was complete immersed the linkage rod from the carburein muddy flood water. The brakes had tor throttle arm. Then I put the their fair share of dried mud inside on throttle lever at wide open posithe components. After an hour with my tion. The carburetor throttle then “B” brakes with drums removed. propane/oxygen torch heating all the needed to be held in the wide open position as well. I needed to loosen the lock nut on the internal components that were seized, everything came ball joint elbow at the governor end of the rod. The rod apart. The brake linings were poor on the brake that was needed to be adjusted so that the carburetor end of the loose. On the seized side, the linings were still good.

The issue was that the linings that had been installed rod would slide into the carburetor throttle arm easily.

Once I had that setting, then the instructions were only covered two-thirds of the brake shoes. This, I believe, to remove the rod from the carburetor throttle arm and was done since the rivet holes for the end of the lining turn the rod two full turns to a shorter length. Then I had were never punched out. It looks like the holes were never to put linkage rod so that it would hook into the throttle punched out due to the roller assembled on the brake shoes arm on the carburetor. I kept track of where it was set at would have contacted the rivets. I removed the old linings when I started the repair. I ended up with the governor rod and cleaned up the shoes. I had to reweld the ends of the one complete turn shorter than it was adjusted to. After shoes where the two pieces of steel connected. A fabricated reinstalling the cotter pin in the rod and locking the nut brake rivet tool was used to install the rivets through the on the ball joint elbow, I started up the crawler and it ran linings and onto the shoes. I got this tool from one of the great. I reinstalled the air cleaner, nose section and hood aftermarket parts suppliers in the USA a few years ago—it onto the crawler. Now when I tried to use it again, I had works great. The new shoes were riveted on, and then I all kinds of power to drive it in any gear or engine speed. drilled new holes in the roller end of the shoes. The rivets The moral of the story on this repair—do not look past the were installed and flattened so that the roller would clear.

Now all I need to do is clean up the rest of the internal simpliest things first!

I have been able to spend some time on the model parts and reassemble the brake units.

That is all for this month. Stay tuned next month for “B” tractor that I have here for restoration. The next issue that had to be repaired were the brakes. The right brake part two of my Ontario working holiday trip. I was going was seized solid and would not move. The left brake pedal to cover it this month, but other stories needed to be told! went full travel and did not stop the tractor at all. I was Until next time—cheers, mates!

Contact Ken Nicklas by email at kenanicklas@ able to get both brake assemblies off the tractor easily.

When I got the nut and drive gear loosened, the drums gmail.com Page 58 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Jorde’s Decals

For Sale JD B restoration parts, new and used, large list and will sell as a lot. JD 620 restoration parts, new and used, large list, will sell as a lot. Ph. 570-835-9734 for list. PA We have clutch covers, grill screens, manifolds, battery boxes, water pumps, steering wheels and more, plus a yard full of used 2 cylinder parts tractors. Over 25 years of experience. We also have battery boxes, grills, steering wheels and other parts for

New Generation tractors. Call Shepard's Tractor Parts, 715-265-4988. WI 1956 JD 630, cleaned and repainted, tires fair, runs excellent. Call for price. Ph. 440548-5249. Garrettsville, OH. 1964 4020, gas engine. Complete and running. Newer water pump and thermostat.

Includes starter, flywheel, fuel pump, manifolds and carburetor. Electronic ignition. I have video of this engine running. $2000 or best offer. Ph. 217-494-2465. IL

JD 320S, SN 321877, runs good, very straight tin, good tractor to restore or work, $4500. JD 320S, SN 320465, runs good, nice paint, straight tin, $6500. Ph. 717-799-4417. PA 4620, hydraulic front assist, Power Shift, with hyd. rear hitch, very nice original condition with cab (photo is in November '23 ads). 3010 RU, nice condition.

3020 utility, gas with Power Shift. 1020 orchard. 4320. Nice 4020. Nice 4010. Ph. 712-269-1700. IA

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Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 59

John Deere L, LA, LI Ridenours - L parts and Unstyled L Parts SOME NEW AND USED New parts include battery box, seat, metal belly pans, light brackets and more

The Ridenours Trenton, OH Ph. 513-988-0390

Visit our website: www.antiquejohndeere.com

John Reed Antique Tractor Parts Phone 580-651-5646 • 806-733-5646 14475 FM 1262 • Gruver, TX 79040 johnreedtractorparts@yahoo.com

www.johnreedtractorparts.com www.parts4tractors.com Pistons, radiators, magnetos & manifolds “H” GOV BEARINGS

Fits H, R, 80, 820/830: $35.00 plus S/H

SHEET METAL BOLT SETS

Early styled tractors (pan seated models) A, B hand startReed • A, B long hood • G, GM & H John Antique 00 $35.Parts plus S/H Tractor Unstyled tractors: $45.00 Styled A, B, G and H + 50, 60 & 70: $40.00 520-up: $30.00 • plus S/H

970-554-2108 hendrichfarmtractors.com

We specialize in JD model H tractor parts— new, used and reproduction

THOUSANDS of model H parts!

Recovering original tractor steering wheels for 14, 15 and 17” three spoke flat or round wheels, $95; 19” four spoke wheels, $110. Please send your core or call for information. EverGreen Restoration, W7619 Walnut Dr., Spooner, WI 54801.

Ph. 715-520-7876. Made in USA. WI L3X JD PTO air pump. JD handheld moisture tester, $125 each. Ph. 402-741-2799. NE

1960 730D ES. Narrow front, 2 valves, 3-pt., average original condition. New thrust washers on crank. SN 7324931.

Sold new in Remsen, IA. $8000 OBO. Ph. 712-351-1193. IA Buddy seat! For 20 and 30 series two cylinders.

Will fit float ride seat or bat box.

Looks like the original buddy seat! $475 plus S/H, includes cushions. Ph. 260-901-3076. Callaway Restorations, IN. K6X

Page 60 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

•• Transfer Pump Gears ••

Also: Bosch 14mm Barrels & Plungers • Bendix 13.5mm Barrels & Plungers • Bosch & Bendix Injector Tips • New with Increased Flow • Injector Springs • Needle & Guides • Many Obsolete Parts

RADIATOR BOLT SETS

New Generation seat extended brackets, 4 inches longer than stock, not painted, 4 piece set, $120. ALSO: Axle wedge removal tool, 530-4620, three sizes, $260 each. Brett, 402429-5311. NE L3X

Two Cylinder Diesel Fuel Systems - Stock & Modified

40S, $3300; M, $2800. Both tractors very original, run well, have good tires, and tin, working hydraulics and PTO. Email preferred for photos and YouTube video.

Email: rustyacres@yahoo.com or phone 530-867-5886. CA 28" factory round spoked wheels, will fit JD GP, BR, BO. $850. Ph. 570-966-1567. PA Used John Deere two-cylinder tractor parts.

Wide variety. Also, some New Generation parts. 30 years’ experience. Call or text Darwin Gingerich, 620-386-0071. KS We have parts for your 45 combine! www.45combineparts.com. Ph. 417-2592520. MO A6X

1955 John Deere model 60, SN 6043633, PS, wide front, front and rear weights, tach, fenders, 3-pt. hitch and four new tires.

Tractor has had a complete mechanical and cosmetic restoration and is collector quality. $15,000. Ph. 315-412-8965. NY JD 70 STD, project to finish, has new intake and exhaust manifolds, new taper lock flywheel to be installed, new rear rims, fenders and nose cone professionally redone and primed. Ran great when parked. Asking $4350. Ph. 507-456-8521. MN K3X Large inventory of good used two cylinder parts. Call for parts needed - casting numbers and/or parts numbers appreciated when you call. Detwiler Tractor Parts, Spencer, WI. Ph. 715-659-4174 or 715-6594252 weekdays 9-5. I6X

Scenic View Engine Decals: QuipCal.com

Reproduced aluminum WARNING PLATES for 3-pt. Quick Hitches. Motorola alternator and amp regulator plates, 35-55-72 amp. Hydraulic cylinder stop pins with chains, spring steel clip, like original, three sizes – 3/8,” 7/16” and ½.” Ph. 712-6608447 cell. IA K3X

730 gas, runs great, excellent condition, $16,000. Ph. 260-573-1512. IN L3X Fender grommets – part #R44619 and #R44621, left and right side for JD 4520, 4620, 5020, 6030 with roll bar and fenders. $149.95 per set plus freight. Ph. 712252-0423. IA L3X Canopies for JD 3020, 4020, etc. Powder coated yellow. $1135. Quantity discounts.

Ships truck freight. Nelson Horning, 585526-6705. NY C12X

Fuel gauges for John Deere 2 cylinders with original face. Six or 12 volt positive and negative ground comes with new fuel tank sending unit. $135 for the set. See our ¼ page display ad for other gauges.

EverGreen Restoration, 715-520-7876; www.evergreengauges.com WI A3X Several unique and rare JD A’s, Bs, Gs and Ds. Also round spoke wheels, shutters, carburetors, and other miscellaneous parts for the above tractors. Southwest Minnesota.

Ph. 507-694-1665, leave message. MN K3X Fresh in for parts—820, unstyled B, M, 70, 80, 420, 3010 utility. Also parting out styled and unstyled A, B, D, H, R, 40, 50, 60, 720 gas and diesel, 840, 1010, 2010, 3010, 4010, 3020, 4020, 1530 and 2030. Countryside Tractor, 618-731-6625. IL K3X Anteater pedestal for ‘39-’47 B and an A-1100R wide front end, $1500. Ph. 612803-4034. L3X

1966 model 2510 Power Shift, SN SNT711P006374R, one of 513, 80 hours on complete professional engine overhaul.

Original 4000 hours on tach. Complete new wire harness. $22,000. Ph. 563-927-6627. IA Early styled B, hand start. Rebuilt carb and like new tires, runs excellent but clutch driver is loose. Good crank available. $2000. D, SN 144368, rebuilt carb and mag, like new tires, rear Firestones. Hand start, runs and drives good. Make offer. BO, SN 332308, electric start, project tractor, make an offer. M, SN 21471, runs and drives, decent tires, project - make offer. Also have some parts for early A, B and M. Call from 7 to 3. Ph. 440-636-2647. OH A3X ELECTRIC STARTER KIT for R, includes 12 volt starter, bracket with battery box, breather, water manifold, water pipe.

Alternator with top and bottom brackets, mounting hardware and battery cables. $1595. Free shipping. Ph. 717-445-9465.

PA A3X

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 61

JD Lawn &G arden Lundell Tractor

USED PARTS & TRACTORS

LUNDELL TRACTOR 6583 310th Street • Kiron, IA 51448

712-675-4341 Evenings: 712-675-4339 Fax: 712-675-4301 Daytime:

John Deere 1010 RUS and a John Deere 1010S for sale. Both tractors run and drive well. $5500 each OBO. Ph. 616-520-1907. MI

Excellent reproduction

A thru 730D

TOOL BOXES

ALSO: New Generation tool boxes Dillner's Tractors

• GP, D & LA brake linings • Carburetor rebuilding • H773R dust shields • Clutch brake pads • Governor springs

CALL or see website for more info

BOB DILLNER

973 Corley Rd. • Manns Choice, PA 15550

814-733-4397 www.dillnerstractors.com

New Generation fuel gauges for 10 and early 20 series tractors, negative or positive ground, comes with new fuel tank sending unit, $160 for set. All our New Generation gauges fit in dash without modifications to the clamp bracket. Also have temperature and pressure gauges for same tractors. EverGreen Restoration, 715-520-7876; www.evergreengauges. com. WI L3X Parting out JD M-MT-40-420-430 and A-B50-60-70 tractors. Call us for new, used and reproduction/replacement 2 cylinder parts. John Shepard, 715-265-4988. WI

1937 round spoke John Deere BN, SN 36282, new tires, parade ready restoration with 2 Cylinder Club official documents. $5500.

Ph. 618-972-0540. IL Everything to mount cast hubs on JD B with 12 spline axles with 38" rims, square head bolts and other required bolts included, $220 for all. JD A, B, G drawbar with base mounts for 3-pt. lift Powr-Trol, left and right lift assemblies and draft link, $150.

Double ring power chains, like new for 38" wheels with 22" cross bars, $300. Two each 5.90x15" implement tires on JD wheels, $30/pair. One 6.50x16" three rib tire on JD rim, $75. One 11.2x38" tire and tube, $50.

Call 570-835-9734. PA

Page 62 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Piston ring sets: A, B, D, G, GP, H. D 6-1/2” std., .045, .090: $192. D 6-3/4” std., .045, .090: $204. G 6-1/8” std., .045, .090, .125: $198. Piston kits 720-730D .125 oversize $650. ALSO AVAILABLE: Two cylinder tractor parts; valves, guides and valve springs; 2 and 4 cylinder pony motor parts; injector tubes OEM, AF3190R, $280; brass push rod tubes, $28; oversized wrist pins.

H&J Machining, 701-652-3289 (ND-K3X alt), www.handjmachining.com or email racinghenry@hotmail.com 1951 B, mostly original, back tires 95%. #5 sickle mower with cylinder. Plows: #810 integral, special trash plow, 3 bottom; F690H, 5 bottom. Ph. 605-545-0092. SD K3X Gear reduction starter built for 3010 JD through xx60 series. Adaptable to some 8000 series JD tractors and some JD loaders. Starts easier. About $100 cheaper than OEM. No core charge. Call 218-234-6500.

NE L3X

PAUL’S ROD & BEARING Specializing in JD babbitt bearings Paul's Rod & Bearing

Let us repour your rod & mains for models A, B, D, G, H, L & LA

Ph. 816-587-4747

Since 1952

6212 N.W. Bell Road Parkville, MO 64152

1957 JD 620 with 3-pt., tires and sheet metal okay, runs well, $3500. 1952 JD A, runs well, all new tires, sheet metal very good, new paint, $3000. 1941 JD H, runs, needs restoring, sheet metal okay, has PTO and fenders, $1750. Ph. 920-565-2354. WI A2X Ridge View Tractor Restoration. Sandblasting and painting. Complete restorations, all makes and models. General repairs.

Agricultural and industrial equipment.

Eugene Burkholder, 3376 170th Street, Ionia, IA 50645. Ph. 641-228-4558. J6X Automatic release brake locks for two cylinders. Haben 4’ sickle mower for 140 garden tractor. Parts: 420W, 50 and 630 RC; 520-630 LP and A-730: air stacks, 3-points.

Hose and breakaway kits for dual hydraulics 520-730; split pedestals for A and B: also Behlen overdrives, round spokes and lugs.

800/801 hitches and parts. Aftermarket parts. Rollover plows and plow parts: 820, 825. Marlin Smith, Pine Valley Farm Equipment. Ph. 712-579-9922. IA L3X Lots of model D and R parts - call for a good deal. Ph. 785-821-2600. KS I3X Carr’s Repair: We’ve got you covered!

D and R overbore piston kits for sale - D overbore .125-.250, R overbore .045-.125, SPECIAL $595! 720-830 JD diesel .125 overbore piston kits. Restore those JD tractors to original! Ph. 807-487-2548. International Falls, MN. No Sunday calls. See website: www.carrsrepairvintageparts.com (A12X) Carburetor, water pump, distributor rebuilding. Farmers Service Incorporated.

Ph. 330-482-4180, www.farmersserviceinc. com OH L6X

• Two Cylinder Diesels—Our Specialty We also have good sources for aftermarket products for two cylinder John Deeres including Taper-Lock flywheels, • Complete Two Cylinder Diesel engine parts, grilles, battery boxes, manifolds, mufflers, Renaissance Tractor • Fuel Injection Repair and Calibration pony motor ignition parts, etc.

• Cylinder Block Boring up to 8” • 2 cyl. & later JD air cleaner conversions, Lindeman through 430C trunion bushings • 70-830 diesel piston kits in stock, STD, .045, .090, .125 os

Renaissance Tractor 120 Cabe Road • Chehalis, WA 98532

800-784-0026 • 360-748-0026

New oversize aluminum piston kits for models A, G, 430, 530 and 830D. American made. Also available are battery and tool boxes and seats for model A, piston ring sets for models A and G. Ph. 815-778-1900 or 815-535-1585 (IL K3X) s.hinrichs150@ icloud.com

1935 JD B, fully restored, spoke wheels. new rubber, works great! $8150. Ph. 715574-9096. WI

Dubuque tractor HOOD BOLTS: Airlock 160 threaded hood bolts, looks like original Airlock ¼ turn fastener. Has same face, but allows you to snug up metal without harming paint. Set includes 11 Airlock bolts, unuts and nylon washers. For all M, 420 and 430 series. $60. Battery box winged Airlock bolt also now available, $15. Both for $70, includes shipping. Ph. 217-502-4504. IL L6X D130R rear wheel axle nut lock washer .16 gauge like the originals. Fits John Deere D, serial numbers 30400 to 123099. $25 per washer and $10.50 shipping in the lower 48 states. Ph. 239-848-6145. FL L2X

JD 3020 gas standard, 1965, SN T121R071126R, one of 711, 5785 hours, single hydraulics, all new tires, four rear wheel weights, front weights, one of the nicest original tractors you will find, asking $10,500 OBO. Ph. 419-825-3333. OH Berry Cam Service: For your 2, 4 and 6 cylinder camshafts, stock or antique pullers. Ph. 320-395-2377. Location: 1948 175th Street, Lester Prairie, MN 55354. J6X JD 45 combine, good condition with both heads and lots of extras. $2200. Ph. 636583-5074. MO L3X

Scott’s Tractor Restoration, 14025 Haumesser Road, Shabbona, IL 60550. We offer complete restoration and mechanical repair on all makes and models of tractors.

Showroom quality. Ph. 815-762-0851, website: www.scottstractorrestoration.com or email: twocylindersh@aol.com. A12X WIRING HARNESSES, battery cables and spark plug wires made to order for restoration or repair. Covering models from the 1930s to the 1980s. Electrical parts including: switches, regulators, lights, relays, alternators. Wiring harness repair/ rebuild service. Worldwide shipping. See our display ad in this issue. Call or email for a free catalog. Agri-Services, 13899 North Road, Alden, NY 14004. Ph. Website: www. wiringharnesses.com. Email: agriserv@ rochester.rr.com. A3X

THREE PIECE FRONT WEIGHTS for JD 520-730. Good reproduction. U.S. made. $1000. Also numbers 4, 5 and 6 are available, $350 each. Detwiler Tractor Parts, Spencer, WI. Call 715-659-4174, 715-6594252 or 715-659-4525 (office) 9-5 M-F. H6X Oil bath air cleaner for 80-830 2 cyl., converted to dry type. Done by Renaissance Tractor, never used since converted. Make offer. Can ship. Ph. 315-536-5821. NY L3X High-speed road gears for John Deere tractors A, B, D, H, 50, 60, 620, 630, 730 models for tractor rides. Ph. 701-942-3102. ND L3X Many rebuilt machine and tested mags and carbs for two cylinder JD tractors and for other makes as well. Also have parts for old Splitdorf mags. Over 30 years’ experience. Call EZ Tractor Shop, ask for Eldon, 785-332-5482. KS L3X 1950 styled AR, many unstyled G parts.

70 diesel just fresh in! Parting out: 70 gas burner, 630, good tin; styled G, also H. Parts for unstyled A, B, GP, D. Styled A, B, D, G, 50, 60, 520 and 620. Some R parts.

Call Larry Frederick, 308-520-7416. NE J6X New and used JD two cylinder parts.

Specializing in H, M, MT, 40, 420, 430, GP, 800 and 801 3-points and parts. Also: See my eBay store for specials and NOS parts.

Some NOS parts, many reproduction parts.

Dave Cook Tractor Parts, 715-373-2092.

Morning calls are BEST. WI H6X Parting out 3010 diesel. Ph. 641-228-4282.

IA I12X New and used parts for JD two cylinder tractors and crawlers and some NOS parts.

Models A, B, D, G, H, LA, M, 40, 50, 60, 70, 70D, 440, 520, 620, 720D, 530, 630, 730, etc.

A&L Parts, 315-536-0543. NY C12X

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 63

John Deere tractor repairs and restorations – all two cylinders and New Generation tractors. Pickup and delivery available.

4177 White Oak Road, Paradise, PA 17562.

Ph. 717-687-3761. H6X Electric starter kit for 70/720/730. Includes 12 volt starter, bracket, alternator and brackets, engine cover, breather standpipe, plug and caps for water ports, $1250. Kit for 80/820/830, $1350. Battery box now available. Free shipping. Also battery cable kit now available. Ph. 717445-9465. PA A3X NEW manufactured parts for John Deere L, LI and LA. Forty-two years of experience making these parts! Grilles, bases, propeller shaft guards and shield assemblies. Ron Brungart, cell 570-6604573. PA A3X New and used John Deere small square baler parts. Knotter rebuilding service.

Our free catalog makes it easy to figure out what your baler needs. Call Finger Lakes Equipment, 585-526-6705. NY C12X

Toys, Books, Manuals & Videos Books: The John Deere Moldboard Tractor Plow 1914-1960, 240 pages, $29.97.

John Deere Moldboard and Disk Plows, New Generation Era 1960-1990s, 256 pages, $30. DVD-A Guide to Better Plowing, 50 minutes of plow set up, $15.

Plow lever parts for JD plows. Email: bedacompany@yahoo.com, website: www.thebedacompany.com or call 608323-3087. Send orders to: Beda Company, N30101 Church Hill Rd., Arcadia, WI 54612. C12X TRACTOR MANUALS AND LITERATURE, large selection, ag, industrial, L&G. Jim Robinett, 5141 Kimball Road, Ontario, OR 97914. Ph. 206-7133441,send email: tractrmnul@aol.com.

OR C12X

ADVERTISING DEADLINES for upcoming issues of Green Magazine®

February 2024 issue:

Jan. 1, 2024 - display ads due Jan. 5, 2024 - classified ads due

March 2024 issue:

Feb. 1, 2024 - display ads due Feb. 5, 2024 - classified ads due

FOR MORE INFO: See page 65 of this issue Call 402-643-6269 Email: info@greenmagazine.com

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND AGAIN ... AND AGAIN!

A Specialized Look Into

The Unstyled Model A Book: A Specialized Look Into The Unstyled Model A

The Handbook of the John Deere Model A 1934-1938

Fourth Edition • By Wes Malcolm Published by Green Magazine® • Printed in the USA Now in its fourth printing with 15 more pages, this is the handbook of the John Deere model “A,” 1934-1938.

A book that should be on the “must read” list of any unstyled “A” owner. There is probably no other book on the market that goes into so much detail on a single model of tractor. Shows illustrations of nearly every change made in the parts that make up the unstyled “A.” 95 pages, 11x8-1/2 inches, soft cover.

Order GM7A: $39.95 US • $47.95 Canada (US funds) • $52.95 All others (US funds) Call 402-643-6269 • Email: info@greenmagazine.com Online: www.GreenMagazine.com Mail: Green Magazine® • PO Box 95, Bee, NE 68314-0095 Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express accepted • Nebraska residents add 5.5% sales tax • Price includes S/H

Page 64 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

Even a small ad draws attention!

M&D Reproduction Parts

For more information about placing an ad, call 402-643-6269 or see page 59 of this issue Wanted: Source of parts for a complete overhaul of an HA 92 power unit. Including rings, bearings, gasket sets and seals, valves, pistons etc. Ph. 325-660-0400. TX

Wanted & Announcements Wanted: NOS cultivator shovels, part #Y786. Contact Tyler Smith, phone 515-2984830, please leave a voicemail if I miss your call. IA Wanted: John Deere unstyled D tractor on steel wheels in good running order. Ph. 641-242-2435. IA

Wanted: Old white patio L&G tractor. Must be with orange or yellow hood and seat.

Can be 210-120, or 140 tractor. Mower not needed. Must be restored or immaculate.

Will want hub caps also. Will consider mower that needs paint. Call Lloyd, 218791-6262. MN L2X Wanted: Skid for W power unit. Ph. 570966-1567. PA Wanted: 1969 to 1972 4020, propane, Power Shift. Ph. 620-923-3364. KS A3X Wanted: A real nice looking and solid running JD 80 diesel in very good condition.

Ph. 701-437-3176. ND L3X Wanted: Rope start attachment for a JD R pony motor. Ph. 309-256-1100. IL K6X

New, used & reproduction

Crawler parts: Lavoy Wilcox JD CRAWLER PARTS

Steering clutch parts, brake bands, bearings, final drive gears, engine kits, carb kits, radiators, fans, water pumps, battery sheet metal, seat cushions, gauges, light switches and more

www.jdcrawlers.com

Lavoy Wilcox • Horace, ND Phone 701-361-1006 • 8-5 CST No Sunday Calls

Announcing: Glendale, Arizona, Feb. 10, 2024, 9 AM to 4 PM: Sahuaro Ranch Park Historic Area, 9802 N. 59th Avenue (between Olive and Peoria). Sponsored by Arizona Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association. Tractor pull and parade.

Kids’ tractor drive. Antique gas engine displays and demonstrations. Classic and antique tractors, all makes. Admission: adults $5, children 12 and under free. For more info: 623-435-3955, www.aedgeta. org. AZ K4X Announcing: Apache Junction, Arizona, March 9, 2024, 9 AM to 4 PM. Rodeo Park located at 1590 E Lost Dutchman Blvd (between Idaho and Tomahawk Roads).

Sponsored by Arizona Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association. Tractor parade and pull. Antique gas engine displays and demonstrations. Classic and antique tractors, all makes. Kids’ tractor drive.

Admission: adults $5, children 12 and under free. For more info: 623-435-3955, www.aedgeta.org. AZ. K5X

Mr. Thinker is waiting for your question Send by mail: Green Magazine PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095 Email: info@greenmagazine.com

LOOK for Mr. Thinker on Facebook Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 65

Book: The Green Experience

Approximately 96 pages of the best articles taken from Green Magazine’s first 15 years.

Every member of the family will enjoy this book of restorations gone awry, trips that didn’t go as planned, cherished memories and sometimes profound situations.

Not a technical or historical book, but a book about the lives and experiences of those who enjoy John Deere tractors.

• Approximately 96 pages • 11x8-1/2 inches • Soft cover • Prices includes postage

Order GREX $20 U.S. • $30 Canada • $40 Foreign

A

GREAaT!

gift ideorder

Place your today!

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402-643-6269 • info@greenmagazine.com www.greenmagazine.com Green Magazine • PO Box 95, Bee, NE 68314-0095

We welcome your submissions • Deere John letter • Restoration stories • Deere & There photos Send your story today!

• Other stories, photos and more Green Magazine PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095 Email: info@greenmagazine.com

Submissions accepted for publication will receive a monetary compensation.

Please send high resolution photos if submitted electronically Please include your phone number on all submissions Page 66 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

I T ’S FINALLY HE RE !

A Specialized Look Into

The Unstyled Model B The Handbook of the John Deere Model B 1934-1938

The first 500 Green Magazine subscribers to order the book will get a free 11”x17” unstyled “B” POSTER

For years now, thousands of you have relied on the Specialized Look into the Model A book written by Wes Malcolm and published by Green Magazine. Now we offer the same types of information, except about the model “B,” written and compiled by a panel of experts who have spent decades collecting and restoring the unstyled version of Deere’s most popular tractor. This book shows nearly every change made in the parts that make up the unstyled “B.” It also has history, specifications, serial numbers, original prices and much, much more.

84 pages, 11”x8 ½”, soft cover, over 200 photos most of them in color

Order GM8B: $39.95 US • $47.95 Canada (US funds) • $52.95 Foreign (US funds) Call 402-643-6269 • Email info@greenmagazine.com Online

www.GreenMagazine.com

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Each binder comes with 12 inserts • Additional inserts can be ordered—prices listed below

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ALL OTHER COUNTRIES $88 for set of two binders w/12 inserts each or $168 for set of four binders w/inserts • Additional inserts: $34/dozen or $64 for three dozen Visa, MC, Discover, AmExp accepted • Nebraska residents, add 5.5% sales tax • U.S. funds only

SET 2: 2015-2018 (feature article listed after each issue)

March 2015 Late A • April 2015 1010 • May 2015 330 June 2015Green BR/BO •Magazine July 2015 3020 • Feb 2016 4010 • March 2016 Uns L back issues April 2016 2010 • May 2016 440 • July 2016 H • Aug 2016 820 Nov 2016 40 combine • Dec 2016 E engines • Jan 2017 3010 March 2017 2520 • April 2017 R • May 2017 4630 • July 2017 2030 Sept 2017 G • Oct 2017 W power units • Nov 2017 4430 Dec 2017 840 • Jan 2018 7020

SET 3: 2019 and newer (feature article listed after each issue)

SET 1: 2014 and older (feature article listed after each issue) Apr 2011 Lost models • Oct 2011 7520 • Aug 2012 4030 Nov 2012 520 • April 2013 US B May 2013 4230 • June 2013 40 • July 2013 6600 combine Aug 2013 R • Nov 2013 8010 • Feb 2014 420 March 2014 Waterloo Boy, 1 • April 2014 Waterloo Boy, 2 May 2014 4620 • June 2014 720 July 2014 530 • Aug 2014 1020 Sept 2014 Unsty G • Nov 2014 Pre-D

Dec 2021 320 • Feb 2022 H • March 2022 70 diesel • April 2022 830 June 2022 1010 • July 2022 60 • August 2022 1520 • Sept 2022 Unstyled B Oct 2022 330 • Nov 2022 Unstyled L • Dec 2022 4030 April 2023 GP • May 2023 7000 series • June 2023 3010 series July 2023 Late styled A • Aug 2023 820 • Sept 2023 4040 Oct 2023 GP specialties • Nov 2023 R • Dec 2023 440

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COST FOR BACK ISSUES, ISSUE S, NOW AVAILABLE PER SET :

U.S., PER SET: $29.00 • Nebraska residents, add 5.5 percent sales tax CANADA, PER SET: $70.00 U.S. funds • OTHER FOREIGN COUNTRIES, PER SET: $100.00 U.S. funds Number of magazines in each set will vary as inventory changes

For more information or to place an order, call 402-643-6269 Green Magazine • PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095 www.GreenMagazine.com • info@greenmagazine.com

Page 68 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

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JANUARY 2024 Green Magazine

DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Brillman Company

2-Cylinder Plus Tractor Salvage, 36 Agri-Services, 14 A&L Parts, 8 Auction: LeMars Toy Store, 3 Auction: Brandon Utesch, 3 Auction: Merle Johnson Estate, 3 Book: A Specialized Look Into The Unstyled Model A, 64 Book: A Specialized Look Into The Unstyled Model B, 67 Book: Mr. Thinker’s John Deere Almanac, Fourth Edition, 74 Book: The Green Experience, 66 Book: The John Deere 20 Series New Generation Tractors, 21 Bundle book deal, 2 Brillman Company, 69 Central Fuel Injection Service, 8 Countryside Tractor, 27 Crawler parts: Lavoy Wilcox, 65 Decals: QuipCal.com, 61 Dennis Polk, 21 Dillner's Tractors, 62 DVDs - Green Magazine, 71 EverGreen Restoration, 36 EverGreen Restoration, 36 Fabricated tractor parts Dave Haala, 27 Garry Power, 60 Green Magazine back issues, 68 Green Magazine binders, 68 Green Magazine Bookstore, 70

GreenLight Products, 14 Iron Bull Manufacturing, 15 Jensales, 7 JJ Ag Parts, 7 John Reed Antique Tractor Parts, 60 Jorde’s Decals, 59 K&K Antique Tractors, 8 & 36 L and LA parts - Ron Brungart, 64 Lakeside Service & Supply, 7 Lind Bros Tractor and Parts, 15 Lundell Tractor, 62 Martin Parts & Repair, 26 Martin Repair, 14 McDonald Carb & Ignition, 21 M&D Reproduction Parts, 65 Medallion AR77663 K&K Antique Tractors, 36 Obsolete parts - The Old Tractor Company, 8 Paul's Rod & Bearing, 62 Renaissance Tractor, 63 Ridenours - L parts, 60 Robert’s Carburetor, 27 Scenic View Engine, 61 Scenic View Painting, 7 Show: Albert City, Iowa, 13 Show: Classic Green Reunion, 37 SMV emblem support bracket K&K Antique Tractors, 8 Steiner Tractor Parts, 75 TP Tools, 9

CONTACT US

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Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 69

Green Magazine Bookstore

e r o t s k o o B rmative books

d info for accurate an The place to go

A Specialized Look Into The Unstyled Model B: The Handbook of the John Deere Model B 1934-1938 This book should be on the “must read” list of any unstyled “B” owner. Offers the same type of info as the unstyled “A” book (at right). Written by experts who have collected and restored the unstyled version of Deere’s most popular tractor, 84 pages, 11x8-1/2,” soft cover. GM8B - $39.95 US, $47.95 C, $52.95 F

A Specialized Look Into The Unstyled Model A: The Handbook of the John Deere A 1934-1938 Now in its fourth printing, no other book goes into so much detail on a single model of tractor. Shows illustrations of nearly every change made in the parts that make up the unstyled “A.” Written by Wes Malcolm, 95 pages, 11x8-1/2,” soft cover. GM7A - $39.95 US, $47.95 C, $52.95 F

The John Deere 20 Series New Generation Tractors This book is packed with info on the JD 820, 1020, 1520, 2020, 2520, 3020, 4000, 4020, 4320, 4520, 4620, 5020, 6030, 7020, 7520, 8020, WA-14 and WA-17. History and development, specs, production numbers and horsepower ratings. 8-1/2x11,” soft cover, 128 pages.

NG20: $28.00 US, $35.00 C/F

THE GREEN EXPERIENCE Articles first seen in Green Magazine 1984-2000 Approximately 96 pages of the best articles taken from Green Magazine’s first 15 years.

Every member of the family will enjoy this book of restorations gone awry, trips that didn’t go as planned, cherished memories and sometimes profound situations. Not a technical or historical book, but a book about the lives and experiences of those who enjoy John Deere tractors. 11”x8-1/2,” about 96 pages, soft cover. GREX - $20.00 US, $30.00 Canada, $40.00 Foreign

The John Deere Unstyled Letter Series Covers the JD unstyled GP, D, B, A, L, G, AR, AO, AI, BO, BR, BI, BO Lindeman, DI, 62, Y, W, AOS, Waterloo Boys and predecessors. Production numbers, year/SN breaks, original prices, matched working equipment, magnetos, carbs, wheels, history.

8-1/2 x 11,” soft cover, 160 pages. GM10: $24.00 US/C, $31.00 F NOW ON SALE! $18.00 US, $30.00 C/F Mr. Thinker’s John Deere Almanac, Fourth Edition All the same info found in earlier editions plus now Dan Brotzman’s New Gen and Gen II SN guide. For all models built from 1918 to 1972: history, SN/year breaks, accurate production numbers (no 820 three cylinder, 1020, 1520, 2020), notes on some significant changes, charts on tractor fluid capacities, cubic inches, compression ratios, torque specs, list of plow beam numbers. Info on proper colors of mufflers, axles, horse drawn equipment, fuels/lubricants, E/W stationary engines, L&G tractors. Chart on heights, weights and top speeds; SN/year charts for models 45 through 105 combines; tractor/loader application chart; SN/year charts for all tractors built from 1973 to 1990; and production numbers for models 4030 and 4230. 8-1/2”x51/2,” soft cover, black/white. MRT4 - $17.95 US, $28.00 C, $36.00 F US = United States • C = Canada price • F = Foreign price Please use stock numbers when ordering books To place an order, give us a call, send by mail or go online Shipping UPS & First Class Mail daily • ALL PRICES INCLUDE SHIPPING

Green Magazine • PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095 Phone 402-643-6269 info@greenmagazine.com • www.GreenMagazine.com Please send all remittances in U.S. funds • Nebraska residents add 5.5% sales tax Visa, Mastercard, Discover & American Express accepted

The John Deere Hi-Crop Book This book provides serial number lists for JD models A, G, 60, 70, 620, 720, 430, 630, 730, 2010, 2510, 4010, 2520, 3020 and 4020. Verify Hi-Crop serial numbers, build dates and shipping locations in a pocket-sized book that’s easy to carry anywhere. Production summaries of two cylinder HiCrop tractors provided, as well as Hi-Crop totals by state and more. 72 pages, 5.5 x 8.5,” paperback, limited quantity. Order GMHC - $19.95 US, $26.95 C/F

A Tractor Goes Farming Author Roy Harrington

(co-author of John Deere Tractors & Equipment, Vol. 2) has put together a book that places the child in the driver's seat of a variety of tractor makes and models. Short sentences that kids will be able to read alone or with help and full color photos to please everyone. 32 pages, 7 x 8-1/2, hardbound. AS6T - $10.95 US, $16.95 C/F

Grandpa’s John Deere Tractors This book for kids

tells the history of Deere and Company starting with John Deere and his steel plow. Then in 48 pages with 50 color photos, it talks about how farming and JD tractors have changed. Best for kids 5 to 10 years. 7 x 8-1/2, hardbound, written by Roy Harrington. AS8K - $13.95 US, $19.95 C/F

How John Deere Tractors and Implements Work Kids are always asking questions, especially

about big machines. This book will give kids the answers they crave as they step into the field with impressive John Deere tractors and implements.

Ages 8 to adult. 8-1/2 x 11, hardbound, 48 pages.

AS9H - $14.95 US, $21.95 C/F

A book is a great gift — for yourself or someone else! Orders can be called in or placed online with a credit card or by mail with a check.

For more information, see yellow box in opposite column.

Page 70 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

DVDs - Green Magazine

VJT4: Tune-Up Video for John Deere Tractors.

4010, 4020 and 4000 diesel JD tractors. 42 min.

VJDP: How to Paint a Tractor. Give that old tractor a finish better than original. 56 min.

VJE4: Engine Rebuild for John Deere Tractors.

4010, 4020 & 4000 diesel JD tractors. 2 hrs.

VB2C: How to Rebuild DLTX Carbs: The Rest of the Story. Tells how to get those stubborn screws loose, how to correct common running problems and other secrets. 111 min.

VJTQ: Tune-Up Video for John Deere Dubuque-Built Tractors. Featuring 420 JD with information pertaining to the M, MT, 40, 430, 440, 320 and 330 JD tractors. 64 min.

VJEQ: Engine Rebuild for John Deere Dubuque-Built Tractors. Featuring 420 with information pertaining to the M, MT, 40, 430, 440, 320 and 330 JD tractors. 90 min.

VJDE: John Deere A, B, G, 50, 60, 70 Engine Rebuild. From tear down to starting it back up. A must for the beginner. 85 min.

VJDT: John Deere A, B, G, 50, 60, 70 Tune-up.

Don’t need an overhaul, just a tune-up? This video is for you. 60 min.

VJDR: John Deere Powr-Trol and Power Lift Repair. Keep those hydraulics and rockshaft running right. 51 min.

VBBM: How to Rebuild Wico Magnetos. Disassembly, repair and reassembly of one of a tractor’s most important parts. 103 min.

VBBG: How to Rebuild Governors. Keep that JD running smooth. 121 min.

VBBS: The How-To’s of Sheet Metal. Repair dents, cracks and rust. 118 min.

VB3D: How to Rebuild Duplex Series Carburetors. Tractor pull but not idle? Start hard and runs only by working the choke? Run for short periods and then quit? This video will help trouble shoot such problems and go through a complete overhaul of the Duplex carburetor. Designed for the home mechanic with a basic tool box. 111 min.

Prices for DVDs shown ABOVE: U.S. $26.00 • Canada $32.00 • Foreign $37.00 VBBF: And Just for Fun—From Seed to Elevator. Everything from check-wire planting to fall plowing, all with JD two cylinders. 2 hours. VBBF: U.S. Price $34.00 Canada Price $36.00 • Foreign Price $42.00 VTNG: New Generation Engine Restoration. Two disk set! Learn everything you need to know to confidently restore JD New Gen engines. Watch as Harvey Hamilton of Tired Iron

Restoration guides you through a complete engine rebuild of a JD 3010 diesel. Filmed in HD, over 7 hours of content. Perfect visual companion to the technical manual. Includes engine diagnosis, inspection and repair of every component and step by step disassembly and reassembly. Advanced principles apply to other tractors including the 3020, 4010 and 4020. Follow behind the scenes to Barry’s Quality Machine to see the machining process and to Diesel Fuel Injection Service to see a pump calibrated.

VTNG: U.S. Price $59.95 • Canada $65.95 • Foreign $70.00

PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314-0095 402-643-6269 info@greenmagazine.com www.greenmagazine.com Nebraska residents add 5.5% sales tax Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express accepted

GreenMagazine.com

Check out the website for books, museum links, advertising and more!

Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 71

Mr. Thinker, Where would the serial number on a 1949 model “M” be found?

D.S., Texas It should be right there on the lower part of the dash, below the ignition/light switch. MT Mr. Thinker, I’ve recently purchased an early “BR” at an auction. The serial number research came back on it as a “BI,” yet there is nothing on the tractor that resembles a “BI.” I’m so confused! Is this a first day on the job goof up? Should I rebuild it back into a “BI”?

Parts should be easy to get. Also, why not Mrs. Thinker? Don’t you have any JD thinking women?

D.B., Indiana

Ignorance is bliss, Mr. Thinker likes to say. You were happy with your new tractor but then you had to go and look into its checkered past and now you are upset and angst-filled. The most likely scenario is that someone at the factory was deliberating whether to vote for FDR or Alf Landon in the upcoming election and wrote down “BI” instead of “BR.” Mr. Thinker’s sarcasm meter is in the shop getting a new turbo encabulator installed, so he is not sure if you are being serious about “BI” parts being easy to find, but he would think that you would be very lucky to find them all. There is a Mrs. Thinker. She stands behind Mr. Thinker as he types and tells him to “be nice.” MT Mr. Thinker, Here is my plow—I believe it to be somewhere late 1940 to 1950. If you can help me with a year and model number, that would be great. I look forward to hearing from you.

G.S., Kentucky

What you have is a No. 472, which came out in 1952 or ’53 with the model 40 and ran at least until 1958 when the 475 replaced it. Cute little bugger. MT Dear Mr. Thinker, I recently restored a three-speed “D” and painted the radiator core green along with the rest of the tractor.

Page 72 January 2024 • Green Magazine®

The neighborhood know-it-all/busybody tried to tell me that I should have painted it black. I told him that he is ugly and his mother dresses him funny. Who is correct?

E.K., Ohio Since Mr. Thinker has never seen your neighbor, he can’t judge if you are correct about his appearance, but you are correct about the radiator core. There are photos of experimental tractors with black radiators, but they are hand built and also have different decal locations and other differences not seen in production tractors.

Photos and videos of the assembly and painting of twocylinders, particularly unstyled tractors, don’t seem to show the workers masking anything off, and in almost every case that Mr. Thinker has seen, NOS radiator cores are green. MT Mr. Thinker, Got this John Deere wrench at a farm sale. Can you tell me what machine it was for and/or how old it is?

J.M., Illinois

The two-inch lettering on the rear axle was used up to serial number 1170, though as seems to be the case in so many instances, you might find a couple below that number with the large lettering and a few above with small.At any rate, it was about 170 tractors. Archival photos sometimes show “G” tractors with pan seat sans holes, but production tractors used the nine-hole AD1606R seat. “G” tractors used the flat spoke version of the AA380R steering wheel up until about serial number 7100; however, the steering shaft bearing did change from a wood bushing to metal at serial number 1379. MT Mr. Thinker, I hope you can help me. At a sale, I recently bought a set of plows that came off a John Deere “A.” I think they're “single bottom - two way” because you drop one side, then at the end of furrow, you turn around 180 degrees—and go back the same furrow with the other side down. Right throw beam number 648, left throw beam number 649. Can you tell me the model number? I want to get the correct operator’s manual and parts catalog.

J.H., Pennsylvania

Mr. Thinker can’t read the number but it looks like either a JD52 or JD53 steel wrench, available in the 1930s and ’40s. According to the John Deere Plow Works catalog version “R,” it was used on plows, listers, and cultivators. MT Mr. Thinker, How many unstyled “G” tractors were built with the small two-inch “JOHN DEERE” lettering on the rear axle housing? What seat should be on an early “G”? Some photos show tractors with a pan-style seat with no holes. What steering style wheel should be on a very early “G”?

R.B., North Carolina

According to Mr. Thinker’s Almanac, the beam numbers you have given indicate that you have an “A3” plow. It would be almost the same as the “B3” shown here. MT

Answers to Mr. Thinker are provided by a variety of “experts.”

Send a question to Mr. Thinker/Green Magazine • PO Box 95 • Bee, NE 68314 info@greenmagazine.com Green Magazine® • January 2024 Page 73

Mr. Thinker’s John Deere Almanac Book: Mr. Thinker’s John Deere Almanac, Fourth Edition

ORDER TODAY! A book makes a great gift— for yourself or someone else!

4th Edition!

Book: Mr. Thinker’s John Deere Almanac, Fourth Edition

All of the same great information you’ve found in earlier editions A few samples of the info in this 4th edition can be seen here ... but there’s so much more!

Order MRT4

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Steiner Tractor Parts

Adam Reyling of Dahlgren, Illinois was looking through some old issues of Green Magazine and noticed that in the April 2017 "Do You Have One" column, we looked for a 1300 planter, but never found one.

Well, he has one as shown here. Better late than never— he gets one year added to his subscription.