No steel wheals, came with tires Marked U.S. FARM TRACTOR ONLY. They were shot so I dont think all war tractors had steel. Yes It was always crank started even 1n the winter, if ya dont flood it it starts 1st 2nd or 3rd time. Just kept it tuned up and I can tell you this the magneto is a good setup, and it will snake bit you if your on the grounded side of the spark. Yes 8N peddle tractor is grand sons but he is more interested in the big tractors. The 8N peddle tractor was made in Iowa USA by good Americans for $250 which is cheap in my book and Kept Americans working. I also have a new American made starter see photo LOL.