McDonald Imperial tractor, 1937, Serial No TWB643, 30-35BHP @ 500RPM
At a rally in 2006
This tractor was sold new to wheat farmers in north-western Victoria in 1937, which was the peak year of McDonalds' tractor manufacture. It was purchased in 1996 from its second owner at the same time as acquiring a radiator from him. The tractor is totally unrestored, but bears the marks of farmer innovation during its working life. These include: a water temperature gauge, steering self centering aid, hand operated brake rather than the usual foot brake, and provision for rear wheel turning brakes with mudguards moved inboard a bit to accommodate this. It also features dual sprung drawbars, available as a McDonald option known as a "Mallee" drawbar.
It is a lovely old tractor, an easy starter, and much better than average steering effort. The only downside is a super-high reverse gear ratio, making for exciting moments when backing off trucks etc! It has a non-original steering wheel, and the seat mount is crude and these features are out of character.
I consider this tractor to be too good to 'restore', and plan to keep it in its working clothes as shown.
Update March 2020: Sad to report that this tractor has been moved on to new owners, and will perhaps reappear in their charge in due course. I am confident they will take good care of it and carry out a bit of maintenance.