Finding the perfect tractor for a restoration project
Restoring an old tractor to mint condition is an incredibly satisfying project. A beautifully restored tractor can be a source of tremendous pride and a classic tractor in a hometown parade is always a big hit. If you’ve restored a tractor before, chances are you’ll get the bug and want to do it again. If you’re thinking about doing it for the first time, your first step is locating a tractor that you’d like to restore. Finding your tractor is your first adventure.
As you begin your search for a tractor, keep these thoughts in mind. Do you want to search by computer from the comfort of your home, or are you willing to hit the road looking for a tractor? Most likely, you’ll find yourself doing a combination of the two. Next, are you going to limit your search to tractors that are actively for sale, or are you willing to make offers on tractors not necessarily on the market? They say everything is for sale, at the right price. The best deals are often made when the owner isn’t actively considering selling.
7 places to search for a tractor
- eBay
An easy place to start your search is on eBay, one of the world’s largest online marketplaces. The site often has a mix of classic tractors and contemporary tractors for sale. If you want to zero-in on older tractors, it’s best to use the words “antique tractor” in the search function. - Craigslist
You can buy almost anything on Craigslist, an online classified platform. With Craigslist, you can narrow your search to regional areas or expand your search nationwide. Craigslist ads are kind of a search and hunt approach. Use the word “tractor” in the search function and check the “farm and garden” section to locate tractors. - Online Auctions/Websites
There is a growing number of online platforms that list tractors available through direct sales or auctions. A popular site is Wilkes Antique Tractors of Waterloo, Wisconsin, which features a page of older tractors for sale. TractorSpot maintains a listing of antique tractors for sale and groups them by make, including Allis-Chalmers, Farmall, John Deere, Minneapolis-Moline and Oliver. Aumann Vintage Power connects buyers to auctions happening across the United States. Brinkley Auctions of Idabel, Oklahoma, holds quarterly tractor salvage sales, offering everything from parts to whole tractors. These tractors are often perfect choices for ambitious restoration projects. Iron Planet has a page of antique tractors from around the world, including many from Canada. - Print classifieds
While much of the world has moved online, don’t overlook traditional print newspaper classifieds. In rural areas and small towns, local newspapers are still an important form of communications. It’s sometimes possible to find treasured old tractors in the fine print of small-town newspaper classifieds. - Small-Town Hardware Stores and Repair Shops
You might consider hitting the road in search of your tractor restoration project. Like many things in life, networking can often be the way to discover opportunities. Small-town hardware stores and vehicle repair shops are good places to visit. Admittedly, more often than not, what you’ll end up with is simply a pleasant chat with the locals, but occasionally you’ll get the lead on the prefect tractor. - Real Estate Agents
If there is anyone who has the pulse of a community, it’s real estate agents. Check with agents working in rural areas. Simply let them know that you’re searching for a tractor for a restoration project. Real estate agents often know about properties that will soon be for sale. A real estate agent may be able to help you make a connection with a property owner who may be open to selling an old tractor on the farm. - Estate Sales
When an older person is ready to move off the farm or a farm has gone into inheritance, an estate sale is often held. These are the times you might find an old tractor in a barn. Here’s another time in which a real estate agent may be able to give you leads. If at all possible, it’s best to reach the property owner before the estate sale happens. It’s easer to negotiate a deal before you’re competing with other buyers.
Inspect before you buy
When you find a tractor that interests you, look it over to understand what you’re buying. Check out the essential parts like the starter, alternator, radiator, water pump and other critical tractor components to get a feel for what needs repair. It’s fine to buy an old tractor with parts needing repair or replacement. After all, that’s what a restoration project is all about. It’s just wise to know what your restoration project will likely entail.
Let the adventure begin
Keep in mind that finding the right tractor for a restoration project might take some time. Some people find the right one quickly by random luck. Others have to invest more time and effort into the search. It’s best to view your search for a tractor as an adventure. It can be part of the story you tell after your tractor is restored to its original grandeur.
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