SN. 185420 This tractor is basically NOS! All original except the spark plugs! Here is the story behind this one of a kind machine:

In 1948 a farmer near Fessenden, ND ordered a new John Deere D from Wells County Implement in Fessenden. The tractor was late coming in and when the farmer was notified it was ready for delivery, they found out he had bought a Case Model LA instead. At that point, it was put away in a building by the dealer.

In 1963, the “new” D was sold to Schwanke Tractor & Truck in Willmar, MN. Knowing that it was a “new” old tractor, they stored it away as well. In 1973 Dennis Powers bought the tractor recognizing how unique it was. Dennis took the tractor to his farm for safekeeping with his tractor collection. In 1995 when the collectability of two-cylinder John Deere tractors was in full swing, he felt it was time to take it to shows.

The tractor hadn’t been started for some time and one rim had developed some rust from calcium that had been installed getting it ready for delivery. He took the tractor to renowned restoration experts Ken & Dan Peterman for a mechanical check-up since it had sat for so long.

A thorough cleaning, replacing of all fluids and several gaskets was performed with the most significant being a head gasket that was found to be leaking. The original decals had peeled off in places, so Dennis found NOS original John Deere decals to put on. It took 3 sets of the originals to finally get them applied because they were so brittle. At the time in 1994, how to preserve the paint was important. Not having many of the products we have today, they sprayed a satin clearcoat over the tractor.

There is no wear on the tractor. One of the tightest original tractors we’ve ever encountered. All paint is original except for rear rims for sure and possibly the wheels. A real survivor that is very well documented with full provenance. All notes, original photos and documentation will be provided.

This tractor is located in Nokomis IL.

2022 Spring Antique Tractor Consignment Auction