A man and his tractor

Aaron never ceases to amaze me. He takes what others would consider rusted garbage and turns them into functioning machines. For him, its a challenge. He has a want and need to beat father time. Over the years I've seen him repair snowmobiles (vintage 1978), rotor tillers, generators, various motors, cars, etc... His most intriguing project thus far has been an old, well used 1959 Massey Ferguson 65 farm tractor. Used may be an understatement. It was a bit abused as well. But being a farm tractor is a thankless and hard job.

Aaron purchased his Massey Ferguson in November 2005 for a mere $700. It was in obvious disrepair. The previous owner repeated several times, "Are you a mechanic?" as he handed Aaron the hydraulic lift tube and the old tire he used as a make shift seat. It took some muscle to get the sleeping tractor that had froze to the ground up on the trailer to bring home. But Aaron did it and he was proud.

It took Aaron two years, lots of money, and many, many hours of hard labor to finish the tractor. In all he rebuilt the engine, brakes, drive train, hydraulics, and the entire front end. He also rewired the electric components and replaced many of the body panels, as well, as the accessories. At times we weren't sure we were ever going to see a complete tractor again and then... one day it all came together. I think it was worth it. Its one sexy tractor.

The old Massey is definitely in its retirement phase of life as it hauls kids on hay rides, sits in tractor and car shows, and does odd jobs for people in the neighborhood. But don't be fooled its once again in its prime. If we have our way, it will be the tractor that works our first farm.