Discover the Rich History and Beauty of Old Montgomery Ward Tractors – Click Here to Explore!

Montgomery Ward was once an iconic retailer that not only sold products to consumers but also designed and manufactured goods, including tractors. For years, farmers and agricultural workers relied on Montgomery Ward tractors to help harvest their crops and maintain their land. While the company is no longer around, their legacy lives on through old Montgomery Ward tractors that have become popular among collectors and enthusiasts.

Early beginnings of Montgomery Ward Tractors

Montgomery Ward sold its first tractor in 1936 under the brand name “Western Field.” The tractor was built by the Minneapolis-Moline Power Implement Company and was only sold through Montgomery Ward’s catalog. The company later stopped selling Western Field tractors and began selling their own branded tractors in 1947.

Evolution of Montgomery Ward Tractors over the years

From the 1940s to the 1970s, Montgomery Ward sold a variety of tractors under several brand names, including Wards, Garden Mark, and Powr-Kraft. These tractors were primarily manufactured by other companies, such as Gilson, Simplicity, and Deutz-Allis. These tractors were not only sold through the company’s catalogs, but they were also sold at Montgomery Ward retail stores.

One of their most popular tractors was the Garden Mark Squire, which was sold from 1950 to 1957. The Garden Mark Squire was a small garden tractor that was designed to be versatile and include a wide range of attachments. It had a Briggs & Stratton engine and a three-speed transmission.

Popularity of Montgomery Ward Tractors in the agricultural industry

Montgomery Ward tractors were built for the agricultural industry and were known for their durability and reliability. Farmers and agricultural workers relied on Montgomery Ward tractors for years to help maintain their land and harvest their crops. While the tractors were not as popular as those made by John Deere or International Harvester, they still played an important role in the agricultural industry.

Features of Old Montgomery Ward Tractors

Old Montgomery Ward tractors were built to last and were designed with several features that were ahead of their time. Here are some of the features that old Montgomery Ward tractors had:

– Engine and drivetrain components: Montgomery Ward tractors had powerful engines that were designed to handle tough tasks on the farm. They were also equipped with durable drivetrain components that could handle the stress of rough terrain.

– Transmission and power takeoff features: Montgomery Ward tractors had transmissions that were easy to operate and were equipped with power takeoff features that allowed operators to attach a variety of implements to the tractor.

– Hydraulic system and hitch capabilities: Montgomery Ward tractors had hydraulic systems that allowed operators to raise and lower implements with ease. They were also equipped with hitches that allowed operators to tow other equipment.

Repairing and Maintaining Old Montgomery Ward Tractors

While Montgomery Ward tractors were built to last, they still require regular maintenance and repairs to keep them running. Here are some common problems and issues with Montgomery Ward tractors and steps to troubleshoot and fix them:

– Engine problems: If your Montgomery Ward tractor is not starting, check the battery and the spark plugs. If they are in good condition, the carburetor may need to be cleaned.

– Transmission issues: If your Montgomery Ward tractor is having trouble shifting gears, check the transmission fluid level and add more if needed. If that doesn’t work, the transmission may need to be overhauled.

– Hydraulic problems: If the hydraulic system is not working properly, check the hydraulic fluid level and add more if needed. Check the hydraulic filter and replace it if it appears to be dirty.

Collecting and Restoring Old Montgomery Ward Tractors

Old Montgomery Ward tractors have become popular among collectors and enthusiasts who enjoy restoring them to their original condition. Here are some tips for finding and purchasing old Montgomery Ward tractors, as well as advice for restoring them:

– Finding old Montgomery Ward tractors: Look for online listings, auctions, and tractor clubs, where you may find information about other collectors who are selling or trading tractors.

– Restoring old Montgomery Ward tractors: Restoring old tractors can be a time-consuming process, but it can also be very rewarding. You’ll need a variety of tools and equipment, including a tractor lift, sandblaster, paint sprayer, and welding equipment.

– Importance of preserving the history and legacy of Montgomery Ward Tractors: Montgomery Ward tractors played an important role in the agricultural industry and preserving their history is crucial. By restoring these tractors, we can ensure that their legacy lives on for future generations to enjoy.

FAQs

Q: What is the history of Montgomery Ward tractors?
A: Montgomery Ward sold its first tractor in 1936 under the brand name “Western Field.” The company later began selling their own branded tractors in 1947. Montgomery Ward sold a variety of tractors under several brand names, including Wards, Garden Mark, and Powr-Kraft.

Q: What are some features of old Montgomery Ward tractors?
A: Old Montgomery Ward tractors had powerful engines, easy-to-use transmissions, power takeoff features, hydraulic systems, and hitches.

Q: How can I troubleshoot and repair my old Montgomery Ward tractor?
A: Common problems with Montgomery Ward tractors include engine issues, transmission problems, and hydraulic system malfunctions. Troubleshoot these issues by checking fluid levels, spark plugs, and filters. Repairs may include overhauling the engine or transmission, cleaning the carburetor, or replacing hydraulic filters.

Q: How can I restore an old Montgomery Ward tractor?
A: Restoring an old Montgomery Ward tractor requires a variety of tools and equipment, including a tractor lift, sandblaster, paint sprayer, and welding equipment. Seek out online listings, auctions, and tractor clubs to find old Montgomery Ward tractors for restoration.