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So my father called all excited today about a 702 tractor he sold to a guy down in Long Island NY. Apparently, the guy he sold it to then sold it to a purchaser for Ralph Lauren. Now that 702 is in the window display at their flagship store on Madison Ave in NYC. Here's a pic of it

Had a great Time with my RJ pushing 4” of wet snow. Pushed with ease even without weights or chains, but ground isn’t frozen solid yet. Tried to represent those old ads of those Pipe Smokers.

Sorry for the long post, but this story needs to be told. My oldest Grandson Reed has a fellowship granted for his Astro Physics PHD at Lehigh University. He has been there for 2 years and has 2-3 years left. Last year he got tired of paying the college town land lords rent and bought one of the row houses to house himself and a couple room mates. His Dad Mike operates a HVAC/ Plumbing business so he installed a new gas furnace and a new Mini Split air/heat pump System. The existing gas hot water heater was only 2 years old and tested good so it was not replaced. Mike also installed smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as required for a rental property. About two weeks ago a CO detector tripped. Reed reset it and all was OK, but Mike sent him a second CO detector as a back up. Friday when Reed came home the CO detectors were sounding and when reset they kept tripping. He called his dad and Mike told him to disconnect the main breaker, open the doors, go out and wait in his car till he got there. Mike called the local fire company and left for the 2 hour trip to Bethlehem. He suspected the gas hot water heater that he did not replace could be the problem. When Mike got there, the fire company had allready checked Reeds house and appliances and could not find the source of the CO. They went to the attached row house and found the house was filled with CO from a faulty furnace and the family of five were all sick with flu like symptoms. Thankfully the loose stone basement foundation wall allowed the CO to leak into Reeds basement and trip the alarms and thankfully Reed did not come home for the weekend and was there to hear the alarms or the outcome would have been much different. Per the fire company, the family would not have survived the night. Sometimes we get lucky. Don't rely on luck...install smoke and CO detectors for everyone you care about.

I got several things I need to get finished, but my Bronco has been marking it's territory in my garage. One axle seal was leaking quite a bit, and I had not seen it because of how it was previously parked. Guess I should get it out more, right? As is usually the case, a leaky axle seal left alone long enough made the hub removal super easy. Didn't even need my puller for it (lucky since I couldn't find the darn thing). Anyway the hub came right off with some wiggles. Made a couple small dings in the metal face of the new seals because it was crazy tight but it shouldn't affect it. The axle and bearing seems fine. A couple hours after and no leaks yet. I'll try to get it out over the holidays and see for sure, but so far so good.

Installed 3d printed chute retainers and motor cover on the XI

@squonk have provided the chickens also.

Ready for more than ever will come.

A snow shoe needed repairing and I need to practice my welding. Laid piece over it and buzzed away. Didn’t get a pic when done ... . Actually didn't do the worst considering my welding skills suck.

The plastic front ‘bumper’ (for lack of a better term) of my 522xi had a chunk broken out of it and several cracks radiating from that spot. Fortunately, I had the missing piece, which made the repair a little easier. After thoroughly cleaning and degreasing the area around the breakage, I stuck the piece back in and cemented the cracks with a water-thin plastic solvent cement that had good capillary action to flow into the cracks. Here’s the back view of the breakage area after applying a few applications of the cement. It seemed to work very well. Even though the cracks were completely welded shut, I shifted into my usual over-engineering mode and decided to reinforce the back of the repair with a few layers of thin fiberglass cloth. I wanted a molecular bond between the fiberglass cloth and the plastic, rather than mechanical, so instead of something like epoxy or polyester resin, I used a thickened plastic cement that exhibited some solvent action on the plastic. Here's the back of the bumper with at least three layers of fiberglass cloth adhered with the plastic solvent cement and with a coat of red paint over it. This part of the bumper won't be visible. Here's the front after gluing, sanding, and a coat of clear “Adhesion Promoter” primer: And the damaged area after the first coat of Regal Red paint (two more coats to go). The color looks a bit off because the photo was taken in the shade. Note: The red bumper is made of PC-PET plastic (a blend of polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate). The black bumpers on similar models (such as my New Holland GT18 / 518xi clone) are made of ABS plastic. However, the cements that I used were actually designed to be used with other types of plastic, such as acrylic or PVC, but they still had a solvent action on the bumper and seemed (to me) to work fine. I guess time will tell.

The BBT got her Millie going and moved snow

Easy solution...do what I do...never plow at night and don't start till the snow stops... Retirement can be a good thing

Trina's Millie has a worn out S/G belt so it wouldn't start. She used The Ugly Bruce tractor to break the snow out so I could get the car in the barn. When I got home & after we got the cars cozied in, I plowed the yard for about an hour. May have to plow again tomorrow morning so I can leave. The Ugly Bruce goes well... but she's used to her little Short frames and I'm used to a heavier machine. It'll get there... Depthwise we have a strong 6" + now with several more inches forecast overnight.

I ordered some stuff from Wheel Horse Parts and More and thought the shipment was short. Sent a text and received almost immediate response. As it turned out the problem was on my end. Joette helped with the issue. Thanks, JoeM In today's world we pretty much hear the bad and hardly any of the good stuff. Just wanted to share.

A few more - he completed the drive flanges, so now the hubs are driven. onto final bits = the rear axle keyways were badly wallowed. So fresh 1/4 slots milled ready for much longer keys.

December seventh is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. A solemn remembrance of a pivotal historical event that forged resilience and unity in the face of adversity, inspiring generations. The following day in an address to congress President Franklin D. Roosevelt spoke these words. “Yesterday, December 7, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan,” There is a beautiful lagoon in the Hawaiian Islands that is named for the lustrous jewel that is formed when a piece of sand irritates a clam into coating it to protect itself, Pearl Harbor. This harbor also houses the headquarters of the United States Pacific Fleet, and has been an important part of the American Naval placement in the Pacific Ocean since 1887. Little did anyone know at that time that an attack on this harbor would bring the entire might of the American Military into a war it was desperately seeking to avoid. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day honors the men and women who died in the Japanese attack on this beautiful harbor one December day in 1941.

That looks correct to me. I added a chunk of rubber to stiffen each spring. I also add a piece of rubber for the springs to rest on. Make sure you leave a hole for the seat switch.

Battle ready!

Now in stock : 2" Receiver Hitches! Completely manufactured and finished in house. Fits both manual and hydro transmissions and also allows for the use of the axle/plow bracket. Will require the removal and re-installation of your hitch pin. As pictured with all of the hardware needed for installation $135.00 plus shipping / continental US only. Private message me here, or call / text during normal business hours. Do not email, and please DO NOT COMMENT HERE ON THIS POST.

I don't really know how this happened. I was browsing ebay looking for mower spindles and ran across a listing for a B100. Unfortunately I made the mistake of looking at the pictures. It was only 70 miles from me so the next thing I know I'm clicking the Buy-It now button The listing said it was last running two years ago when it was brought in due to a transmission problem. All of the pictures were apparently from two years ago because it was obvious when I picked it up that it had been sitting just like the pictures showed only with lots of weeds all over it. Overall though it was still pretty decent looking. At the moment I have no clue what issue is with the drive system. I did pull the dipstick and the oil looks clean and fresh. The first task is to get it off the trailer and into my shop and then I'll see about getting the engine to run. I can't troubleshoot the drive system until it's running. I think I have another steep learning curve when it comes to the drive system. If nothing else, it should be interesting

Worked on restoring the headlights on the 522xi. I had good luck with the headlight reflector, but not quite as good with the lens. For the reflector, after cleaning and a light bead blasting to roughen the surface slightly, I sprayed it with "Rust-Oleum Automotive 600 Degree Aluminum Engine Enamel," which is great paint. It's quite shiny and adheres really well, although the overspray is messy as it sticks to everything within several feet of where you're spraying. I then top-coated it with "Rust-Oleum Automotive 600 Degree Gloss Clear Engine Enamel." I think the reflector is 'almost' as reflective as the original surface, and it should hold up well. The headlight lens is much better than it was before (brownish yellow, almost opaque, and heavily oxidized), but it's still rather milky after I spent almost two hours polishing it halfway to China, using all kinds of approaches, including progressively finer sandpaper, headlight restorer kit, polishing compounds, wax, etc. I think the milkiness is very deep, so I guess I'll either have to put up with it or buy a new or used replacement lens. New ones are still available, but kind of expensive. By contrast, the headlight lens on my GT18 (the same kind of lens) cleaned up beautifully (below) and is crystal clear. I guess my 522xi must have spent a lot more time outside in the sun than the GT18.

It is very difficult to get the front two mounting bolts hooked up on a K-181 on an 856/commando frame. You can't get good access to the under side of the frame to get the bolt up through or hold a nut if you bring the bolt down from the top. After a half hour of frustration I had a brain fart. With the engine slid back you can work the bolt up from the bottom. So I got two 3/8" E clips slipped them over the bolt on the top side of the frame. Held the bolt in place while I lowered the engine over them. Just catch the lock washer and nut then use a pry bar lift the engine and with a small hook you can pull the E clip off.

Today is Chester Greenwood Day, celebrated in Farmington, Maine, honors the town’s beloved inventor of earmuffs. This lively event draws crowds with its unique charm, highlighting the importance of a simple invention that brought warmth to many ears. The event fosters a sense of community and honors a local hero whose invention made a significant mark. This celebration is a testament to how one person’s creativity can leave a lasting legacy, bringing warmth and cheer to generations.

This morning Trina and I started the cleanup of the recently found "Tripp" graveyard. We brought up a couple hand tools and started by cutting the smaller saplings in and around the small metal enclosure. We'll continue with the project through the winter and into spring. Quite a good workout to get there. 1.4 miles each way and about half of that was through 8+ inches of snow.

Did you know that National Blue Jeans Day lights up our calendars on December 5 every year? This special day honors the timeless appeal of blue jeans, a staple in wardrobes worldwide. From rugged workwear to a fashion favorite, jeans have truly seen it all. Their durability and versatility make them a go-to choice for any occasion, easily paired with casual or semi-formal attire. This day reminds us of jeans’ unique role in fashion and culture. Their adaptability allows them to blend with any wardrobe, earning them a permanent spot in fashion. It’s not just about wearing jeans; it’s about celebrating their journey from workwear to a fashion statement.

A Haiku... I have very good jeans Hear tell Sydney does also So where is my check? A Limerick There once was a man with great jeans Who really liked to eat beans His flatulence was known far and wide And it really did damage his pride That people thought Sydney had better genes

Balmy... Trail cam at @ebinmaine's place this morning...

Thanks Don for the thoughts on the bolt. It was handy (like your avatar) and I’m on a time constraint (I leave for Israel on Monday). This upcoming summer, I’ll get a custom rod made up. Today’s project was to clean up the hood and fender pan, then load the tractor, and head to Caleb’s house. This tractor is in such good shape (the seat notwithstanding) and so I felt that the chalky hood would shine up nicely… I wasn’t wrong…I only spent about 20 minutes on it for now but was excited with the results! Not bad for 37 year old paint! my little 5’x8’ trailer was “just big enough” to fit the tractor with blower attached. Caleb got off work about an hour early so that he could be the one to clear his own driveway for the first time! For those of you that have known him for a decade—can you believe that he is now a first time homeowner??? unfortunately the throttle cable is not functioning well. We are going to need to outsource a good used one or find something better. however, even at about half throttle, that Ber-Vac was handling the snow with ease and the torque of that Onan is impressive! For those of you that enjoyed reading the Iron Horse thread, this picture is also there. This is my dad in 1975 clearing the snow at his first house with his 1965 875. 50 years later, his grandson is clearing his driveway at his first house with a 1988 520HC! Wheel Horse—a generational experience for the Stertz household (like it is for many of you!) Job well done for the old machine! using the bagger frame to hold some weight (about 100 pounds) may not be the prettiest situation, however it works just fine. Caleb has a full rack of suitcase weights but no bracket. I suppose that next spring/summer we can fabricate something to hold those. At least, he can now clear any accumulative snow moving forward this winter…

Somewhere on here is the algebraic equation, but essentially it is: + I x 2 Where: = Wheel Horse Tractor I = Implement x 2 = the minimum number of additional 's and Implements per . As you can see, it is like infinity - it never completes the circle...

Watched this 13yo lad operate this 10,000 lb. plow machine. He plowed from 8AM to 4PM with an hour lunch break(for the Belgians). He turned about 5 acres.

Santa has been experimenting with various modes of transport. As you can see in one of the cards I made last Xmas, the steampunk sleigh wasn't very dependable. Mrs. Blue Chips had to smirk at Santa's botched attempt to land on our dock. And don't worry...the reindeer all managed to swim to shore.

Well well well... a whole day dedicated to some, not all, characters on

Not really to, but with: The first post I couldn't get balanced on the dolly well because there wasn't enough room to work, so I had to leave it attached to the engine crane too. The whole thing was too heavy and unbalanced for me to push up the ramp to the garage by myself, so I got to thinking about my options. The 855 has the plow on, plows are for pushing things. Fired it up and set the plow at the right height to engage the base of the post, and up the hill we went. Do we have a "What have you done WITH your WH today?" thread?

Not a problem Jim. My local drug pusher has me on a daily dose of lisinipril and simvistatin washed down with a shot of Sea Foam.

LARD....Brings back many fond memories of BUTCHER DAY. Watching Grandpa put down the 400 lb hogs with a single well placed 22 short from his little cat gun. Riding piggy back (yeah, that's me about 1946) as they were dragged from the pig pen to the big sugar maple butcher tree with a team of ponies. This large sugar tree offered a big limb to attach the rope fall. Later it supplied enough sugar water to make a couple gallon of syrup. Hoisting the hogs with a rope fall and swinging them over the scalding barrels. That's my Dad in the bibs with his back to the camera. Removing the hair with hog scrapers. Watching the blur of flashing blades as Grampa sharpened the knives on the steel. Pinning the pig tails on Grandmas apron strings while she was scrubbing the casings on a washboard. Sampling smoky meat from the boiling puddin and scrapple kettle. Blowing the stomachs up and tying the ends tight to make footballs. Now worth 10-12 bucks each wrapped in plastic and sold as hog maws. Cranking the press to squeeze the lard out into the 50 lb lard cans. The remaining skin (cracklins) were put in a mesh onion sack and hung in the smoke house with the hams and bacon sides where they were snack food till they became rancid. Then they were used for bait on my trap line. A few of you geezers will understand this, but unfortunately most will never know...

When I still had blowers., I also liked the old style with wheels. Made the blowers so easy to move around when off the tractor

Had venison wrapped in bacon last night for dinner... yum!!! Any edible derivative of pig is ok by me...

The lard and bacon grease trick is the best for cast iron pan work.

My mom always had a bowl of lard on the stove. We save bacon grease and use it to fry eggs, burgers and other meats. Works and tastes way better than pam.

That, or you coulda just used that thin part to set your points! LOL You got your money's worth outta that one

Nice, but like many blowers, the side wings are on backwards. The small bent leading edges should be parallel to each other.

Hi. My name is Eric and I am Justin's enabler.

AA has a 12 step process for freeing yourself from addiction, If you have come here seeking help to free yourself from being a Hors-A-Holic you have come to the wrong place. We are just a group of enablers that will drag you further into the depths of your addiction.

The Yanmar or the actress?

Why yes... yes I do... Nice grab!!!

Fasole means beans in Latten and I pass them all the time, sometimes even play a little tune first.

Not so much me as the wife, but she found this idea on the facie-page maybe:

5 inches of partly cloudy overnite. Ole Thumper never missed a beat knock on wood. 3/8 of a mile of driveways are all done. The renters can clean up their sidewalks their-selves. It was a wet and heavy one.

Fender bracket assembly ready to install. Note the liquid Teflon sealant used on the bolt threads to keep water out and oil in. Do not use Teflon tape as bits of it may end up in the hydro unit causing issues down the road. Tractor ready to receive fender bracket. Sealant was applied to the bolts ensuring there is none on the end of the bolts to get into the transmission. Fender bracket sat into place then the bolts were screwed in finger tight. I then measured between the fender bracket and the hood stand on both sides and fender bracket was moved until the measurements were the exact same on both sides. There is just enough free play in the bolt holes for a bit of adjustment. This should ensure the fender bracket is square and even. Fender support bots were torqued to 26 ft/lb. Tractor as it sits today.

We've got about 6 inches outside right now, on Thursday and Friday we had about 4 inches each day. Definitely getting a lot of seat time so far. Yesterday I put front tire chains on to see if that helps me steer until we can fab up a front weight. So far I have not spun out even when moving the snow bank from an entire 30 foot driveway. The hundreds pounds total weight per wheel plus lsd plus chains plus my 135 pounds probably helped a little. The 8 horse kohler barely even grunted. The one time over the summer I had scotch brited that scratches and waxed the plow and that helped with the snow sticking and now I'm gonna see if silicone spray helps even more.

Guess he needed reliable transportation up there!