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There is a good contingent of tractor fans around the world and I have always counted myself in the fold. I’ve only been to one “tractor pull” event but I have taken in a good number of tractor shows whenever the opportunity arises. The amazing level of restoration and collectibility of these old farm horses rivals anything we may be familiar with in the automotive realm.
Franklin Mint has been a regular supplier, through the years, of farm tractors and implements. The Farmall brand has been a good staple for farmers and FM alike. This latest rendering may be considered as a natural offshoot of the Farmall A Tractor issued in 2002 by the FM. FM tells us that the original Farmall A tractor was replaced in 1947 by the Farmall Super A. The difference was a built-in hydraulic system named “Touch Control”. It was International Harvester’s first powered system for raising and lowering implements at the touch of a lever.
FM has replicated this work horse beautifully. From its authentic front tires, allowing cross-crop straddling at the same width as the rear tires, to the 23º self cleaning tread rear tires, FM has added an enormous amount of glorious red detail. The steering is gear-driven precise, no ‘slop’ whatsoever. The fan belt is made from rubber, the headlights are wired and so is the 4-cylinder engine and distributor. You’ll find battery cabling, authentic miniature warning labels on the battery, oil filter, air cleaner canister, gas tank and transmission housing as well as on the power take off (PTO). Speaking of which, the PTO wheel turns. The draw bar hitch, used for pulling implements, swings left to right and there are a number of operating parts for the owner to enjoy. The seat, leaf-spring mounted, tilts backward to allow access to the under seat storage, and the brake pedals and clutch pedal function on spring returns. In addition you may move the throttle and watch the link’s movement all the way to the front of the engine.
The engine cover is removable and gives the owner a better view of the motor. Take the air filtration snorkel off first followed by the exhaust stack and reverse the process after replacing the hood.
If you are into these great FM tractors, you will need this for the collection. If you are just starting out, I can’t recommend any other any more highly than this one. Issue price for this limited edition is $145.
* Editors note: Many thanks to Doug Fuller for his help with this review and for taking the final photo.
(09/17/2006)
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