Despite the fact that sales of four-wheel drive tractors were high in the 1980s, there was still a market for twowheel drive. Ford’s legendary 7810 was offered in this form, but examples are rarely seen today. Andrew Hall visited a clean, high-hour example in semi-retirement.
During the 1980s, tractor size and horsepower was on the increase and along with this, four-wheel drive was becoming more popular. Larger implements required more traction and greater acreages could be covered in less time, which in the fullness of time has contributed to fewer staff working on our farms.
However, many popular makes and models of tractor were still available in two-wheel drive. One such machine was the successful Basildon-built Ford 7810. Despite its sales success and popularity, the 7810 almost didn’t happen, as the Ford Motor Company initially resisted the concept of a ‘lightweight’ six-cylinder tractor.
Thankfully, the idea suggested by South Essex Motors, a company specialising in Ford tractors, was eventually accepted and the Ford 7910’s power unit was combined with the rear end of a 7610, offering a six-cylinder tractor similar in stature and equal in power to the 103hp four-cylinder 7610, but without the need for turbocharging.
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Grenagh Open Day
Once a year, Mike Forde of Grenagh, Co. Cork, opens up his sheds to let the collection of combines and tractors loose upon his barley and the resulting stubble. It's always worth going along to watch, says Justin Roberts.
Emerald Isle's Blue
In September, the crisp rustle of wellies crushing wheat stubble can mean only one thing… it's time for the plough – or at least it was until minimum tillage came along.
Veterans Stun At Feldtag
If you think you have something suitable for this column, please get in touch with Peter Love (tm.ed@kelsey.co.uk)
The Story Of An Engine
It’s a double celebration for fans of blue tractors this year, as not only is it the centenary of Ford tractor production, but also 30 years since one of the company’s most iconic and respected models was launched. Jonathan Whitlam has the first in a four-part story of the 7810.
American Dream
Tom Collins meets a man who was determined to realise his ambition.
A Good-Year For The British Rubber Co
Regular readers may recall the feature on The British Rubber Co. in our February 2017 issue, particularly, comments from Tom Card, the company’s Proprietor, on reproducing vintage tyre patterns in various sizes. In a follow-up to the article, Scott Lambert talks exclusively to Tom about exciting new developments.
New Motor
Time would prove that Leyland’s 285 and 2100 were not without their problems, but fitting a six-cylinder engine was proof that the company was prepared to take the fight to its competitors. Today, these models and their four-wheel drive siblings are icons of the 1970s and prized by collectors. Chris McCullough meets a Leyland enthusiast with a passion for the 2100.
Life By The Sea: Part Three - A New Millennium
The third and final part of the late Donald Bowler’s feature on life boat launching tractors sees him look at the latest technology employed by the RNLI, as well as the machines used at independent life boat stations up and down the country.
Biddenden Tractorfest
Peter Love for horticultural equipment enthusiasts
Classic Harvest
You’ve been sharing your photographs of this year’s harvest with us via e-mail and social media. Here’s a selection of some of our favourites.
