THE NEWBIE - As readers of Antique Power magazine know, one of the most interesting things about antique tractors is the fascinating timeline of tractor technology. A critical part of the tractor, however, seems to get the least mention, and that is the seat. Looking at the big picture of the evolution of tractor seats, from the mid 19th century to today, you might describe it as a journey “from pain to pampering.”
Read MoreTHE NEWBIE - Antique Power magazine celebrates the rewards of the antique tractor hobby, but any use of large and powerful machines constitutes a rollover risk. For instance, within the past week, I heard through a local tractor club that an 86-year-old tractor owner and friend to many was found dead, pinned under his overturned tractor and asphyxiated by its weight. These tragic tractor rollover accidents can happen to anyone, not just newbies.
Read MoreTALES FROM THE BACK 40 - With Father’s Day just around the corner, I have been reflecting on lessons from my dad. Most boys look up to their fathers, and I am no exception. I worked side-by-side with my dad, Bill Frankenhoff, for almost a quarter-century, until I moved away to start my writing and editing career. As I looked through family photos earlier this year, I found a few that really showed how our father-son relationship formed and grew.
Read MoreTALES FROM THE BACK 40 - Farmers can find unconventional uses for conventional equipment when a job has to get done.They say that a truck is often a man’s office. The same could be said for a tractor. While my family’s tractors and other farm equipment did serve their intended purposes, we also used them in ways that were, to say the least, unconventional.
Read MoreTALES FROM THE BACK 40 - Trading equipment can have a positive outcome, but it could also result in a stressful experience. Equipment wears out. Yes, no matter how many years of faithful service it has provided, that implement is going to need to be replaced sooner or later. The experienced farmer has, before that time comes, probably been checking out newer models and keeping an eye on what specials his local dealers have been offering—both in price and financing.
Read MoreTALES FROM THE BACK 40 - Farm communities are full of charitable acts. They say a farmer will give you the shirt off his back, and, in my experience, that’s always been true. The neighbors around our farm helped each other, kept an eye on each other’s fences and property, lent equipment when needed, and borrowed equipment, if it was needed.
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