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9n'er
07-08-2000 03:34:30
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Re: When is a total restoration worth the effort??? in reply to Patrick, 07-07-2000 17:41:54
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I can't provide detailed technical answers to questions...but I can provide this perspective: At the beginning I didn't have any sound basis to know completely what was required in a total restoration...but I suspected that it would cost some money and some time...how much of each I figured would surface as I went through this project. I don't have any regrets or never questioned wether it was worth it or not. As the replies below indicate, and what I found to be true, is taking the old pieces that have been rusted, abused, beat, scratched, dented, and in some case mangled, to nearly new condition. Wether it was a small item or a large item, there was a sense of accomplishment and doing something worthwhile. And, as other's indicate it's a personal choice as to the degree and detail of restoration one chooses. There does not appear to be any hard and fast rules of correct, right, or wrong; just what is best for each person's taste and desire. I feel very fortunate to make the opportunity to restore the 9N I aquired with no prior experience in any phase or technique required of it. The saving grace for this tractor was that it cost me 500.00 initially...so that was the deciding factor to invest into it. There are easier and better conditioned tractors to restore and in hinsight...would have made this job easier and less time consuming if it was in better condition. The tractor represents the collaboration of many people's minds, willingness, and interest to succesfully complete this project. I'm not there yet (obviously) but the journey is proving to be the reward and I suspect the tractor will just be the representation of the people and determination to succeed. I marvel at the sites and photo's of those that have restored their tractors, and I see more than a nice looking tractor. I see the person standing there, and I note that there is a lot of pride in accomplishment, investment in energy and interest, and ownership. Hey, we can't take these dang things with us, but what we will take with us is the knowledge gained and the reward of time well spent. That's the worthwhile aspect of these kinds of projects or pursuits. A good question...one that someone should ask before they go into it, and in my case the reason why I have posted my efforts in the detail that I have; to provide insight to someone who is thinking about it (or for someone else with a similar opportunity that finds a tractor, on a trailer, in their yard, late one winter night) into the skill, techniques, problem solving, and sorting required to restore a beat 9N to original 1940 specs. It is a big help if a person has some skill, tools, and understanding in any of these areas: auto and tractor mechanics, bodywork and HVLP spraying, some financial resources, space and place to work, ignition systems, problem solving, and willingness to ask questions. Excellent question. sorry for the long reply. -9n'er
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