We typically roll or "drag" (if necessary) the tractor into the shed and then disassemble it. How far do we take them apart? It varies with the condition of the project and the owner's requests. This is the best opportunity for us to take a look at everything including the areas and parts that were hidden when the tractor was assembled.

Once apart, we mount the tractor on a jig and send it to our sandblaster. Along with the main tractor, we also send sheet metal and some of the smaller parts.

This is what the parts look like after sandblasting. All of the important holes and delicate items have been covered and/or taped up to keep the sand out.

After sandblasting, all of the parts are then primered with a PPG epoxy primer.

For this tractor: Once the body of the tractor was primered, before any assembly we broke the tractor in half and replaced the clutch, pressure plate, throw-out bearing and transmission seal. We also replaced the paper gaskets between the transmission and the bell housing.

Before we assemble the tractor, we make an effort to paint the backsides of all of the parts so that there is paint on all surfaces. Once the parts are painted we start putting things back together. We do pay close attention to detail.

Once put back on, additional holes are stuffed or taped up, we sand everything to get ready for painting.

While reassembling the tractor we take the time to do any bodywork that may be necessary.

Bodywork is more than just putty... we cut, replace and weld in new sheet metal where necessary.

With bodywork finished, paint-work is completed and assembly of the sheet metal parts continues.

Almost done! We put on some of the decals.

FINALLY! We crank it up, roll it out of the garage and it purrs like a kitten.

While we are still finishing some small things with this tractor, it has already started going to shows. Check out our show page.