Our Solar-Powered Tractor

Reader Contribution by Kathryn Griffin
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A little over a year ago, my husband, Terry, started talking about building a solar tractor. Since we were planning a move to a thirty-acre farm in Arkansas, the tractor would have to actually be the workhorse we expected we would need rather than a conversation piece shown off in parades. The original tractor — and I use that expression loosely — was a Ford 1950 8n bound for the scrap metal pile. When Terry told me he paid $200 for the rusty tractor pieces he proudly showed me I admit I wondered about his sanity. The front tires were lying off to one side and there was no motor, seat or fenders. Despite my doubts, his enthusiasm never waned and he began building his solar tractor.

For those who are mechanically-minded and are thinking about building their own solar tractor I will

attempt to relay the information given to me by Terry—also sometimes known as “MacGyver” due to his ability to fix anything and make something out of nothing! So, according to my mad scientist…

First, the crank shaft was removed and cut at the last rod bearing, leaving the rear main, flywheel attachment and collection pressure plate. Next the crank shaft was machined to accept the end cap of a universal joint after the drilling and tapping on the crank shaft was completed. The crank shaft was re-installed into the tractor, leaving the two rear main bearings. A grease fitting was installed into the block of the tractor. A rubber bladder was located—an automatic lubricator which keeps the rear main lubricated.

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