1948 Minneapolis Moline UDM Tractor

Description

In 1929 three companies - namely Minneapolis Steel & Machinery, Minneapolis Threshing Machine and Moline Plow - combined to form Minneapolis-Moline of Minnesota and the conglomerate quickly grew to become one of the largest producers of tractors in America. The pioneering Model U was introduced in 1938 with features hitherto unheard of on tractors, including a closed cab equipped with a heater, radio, windscreen wipers and even a cigarette lighter. An electric start and better instrumentation were also offered, along with a range of powerful engines. A small number of Minneapolis-Molines were built under licence in France (as the Mathis-Moline) in 1949-1952, while across the Channel two Model U derivatives, the UDM and UDS, were manufactured with either Meadows or Dorman engines respectively. The British-made models also came with the option of a Perkins diesel, all with American-made transmissions. The Model UDM tractor was powered by a 65 horsepower diesel unit made by Henry Meadows Pty Ltd of Wolverhampton. The 4DJ 420 unit idled at 600rpm with a maximum engine speed of 1,250rpm, while a 575rpm PTO and detachable split-type belt pulley fitted as standard equipment. Unusual at the time due to the scarcity of rubber, the Minneapolis-Moline UDM used 7.50x18 inch front and 12.75x32 inch rear tyres, both mounted on cast-iron centres. Sharing similar bodywork to their American-made counterparts, the English Minneapolis-Molines had a red painted grille and the option of a rear winch, electric lighting and steel wheels. Today these tractors have a huge following and surviving examples are keenly sought by collectors the world over. Regarded as some of the finest tractors ever made, owners enjoy strong support from clubs and specialists supplying parts and knowledge.