On 2025-08-28 11:52 a.m., Shoppa, Tim via cctalk wrote:
Frank wrote:
I wasn’t around back then ;) But I think the big problem with
steam tractors was since they were so heavy they would sink into
the fields. I don’t think that was an issue really solved until gas
powered tractors came around.
We're getting off topic but I want to interject that if you want to see
operating steam tractors, stationary steam engines, and lots more, get to Mt
Pleasant Iowa RIGHT NOW for the annual Old Thresher's Reunion which starts
TODAY.
I note that when the Old Thresher's Reunion first started in 1950, the steam
tractors being run there were only 40-50 years old, not too dissimilar to how
an Apple II or PDP-11 is today.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hs4L2nSqCL4
https://www.oldthreshers.org/other-events/steam-school/
Tim N3QE
But will a APPLE II or PDP 11 last another 40 or 50 years?
Some how the PDP 8 is as strong as ever.
I suspect most of the vintage equipment up to the 1920's could
be rebuilt with a good machine shop. Vintage tubes are a bit more
tricky.
Thinking of the little big Iron, model steam devices is a rather nice
hobby if you don't live in a apartment.
Ben.
