I have been approached recently on my insights on tractor values. I won’t claim to be an expert on the topic, but I do have some advice. Maybe that and an added two cents probably wouldn’t buy anything. None the less, here is my story.
I started collecting Shaw Du-alls a few years ago. I went from not even knowing they exist to the point of having four in my collection now. There have been pitfalls on my collection journey. I may have made mistakes. Maybe I have gone too far, spent too much, but that’s just me.
One great take away is I’ve made some great friends. The advice to me has been a strong asset. I may have not always listened as close to what they told me though. That’s not a complaint. I hold myself accountable to my decisions
My first Shaw was purchased on auction. It was a 1951 R12T. The tractor was probably original paint. It had good tires. I learned later, after my second purchase, it wasn’t complete. I’m embarrassed to admit the adrenaline of bidding pushed me, and I had strong competition. I paid too much for what it was. That was proven on resell. I only got half of my investment back. Lesson learned
The second add was another much nicer R12T. This one was brought to my attention via Facebook. I was directed to the seller and we agreed on a price. Many prospective bidders wouldn’t match his asking price, but I was willing. I also was willing to travel the distance to bring it home.
There is a couple take away. Know your budget and understand others may have a larger one. Don’t be afraid of a little competition if you are willing to compete. If not, don’t take it personally.
Another take away, be willing to travel. Not everything is right next door.
I had every intention to restore my first Du-all. After my discovery of the second one, I realized that the tractor wasn’t complete. It would take alot to recreate the tractor I have now. I put the first tractor up for auction.
That’s another consideration. Restoration is expensive and difficult. Finding parts can be a challenge.
I tend to shy away from project tractors. I don’t have the necessary time to dedicate to projects. In a lot of instances, I don’t have the expertise either. I’m fortunate to know the right people, though.
I don’t always follow my imposed rule, My next Du-all was a major project. I also didn’t go searching for it, the tractor found me. The story about this tractor can be read in two recent posts on this blog. The “Barn Find” and The R8 “Barn Find” Revealed.
The recommended readings will explain the challenges in the restoration process. Even a cheap tractor costs money to create a polished jewel.
I picked up two more Du-alls during a holiday trip to Tennessee. My N5 had been purchased on advanced arrangement. The N8 became available right before my trip.
Both sellers made me aware that the tractors had issues. That’s to be expected with old tractors. The N5 had a transmission problem. The former owner also had problems getting the little tractor to run correctly. To be honest, if not for my go-to guys, I would have left the N5 in Tennessee. The transmission wasn’t a complecated problem. The shift lever needed a little repair to work correctly. At the time of this article, the N5 is currently getting an overhaul.
The N8 can be cantankerous. Its former owner confessed he had problems getting the Wisconsin power to start. My diagnosis was a magneto problem. I don’t know how to fix a magneto, but my friend Jerry Rawlings does. The tractor is still cantankerous, though. Maybe it’s just the nature of a Wisconsin engine.
There is another consideration besides the amount spent for purchase. I originally only planned to paint the hood and grill on the N8. Doug Edwards, owner of Edwards Tractor Restoration, has helped make up my mind to paint the whole tractor. The work he did on the R8 reinforced it was a good decision.
I bought the tractor at a good enough price that the cost of painting won’t “put me upside down” in value. I have more money in the tractor that I can’t recoupe. Of course, I have no intent to sell.
I used my four Shaw Du-alls as an example for this article. My parting words of advice.
You get what you pay for. Shaw Du-alls are the perfect example of my point. These tractors are a little rare, and they can command a high asking price. If you’re not willing to ante up, maybe owning a Du-all isn’t right for you. Sorry to be harsh!
Do your research! Even good-looking tractors will have issues. There might be a reason if the machine is priced reasonably. Starting cost is only the first factor.
That’s my advice, if you’re looking to buy happy hunting! If you already own one, congratulations! You made a great investment in history. If you’re trying to sell, be honest, and don’t be afraid to hold firm on your asking price. The right buyer will appreciate the tractor’s worth.
Antique Iron Media 