Re: Just how efficient were steam-powered tractors?

Posted by Red Dave on April 25, 2002 at 09:29:57 from (24.104.94.34):

In Reply to: Just how efficient were steam-powered tractors? posted by Alberta Mike on April 25, 2002 at 08:35:50:

I don't know what the thermal efficiency of a typical traction engine was in terms of power output per unit of fuel input, but it has to be pretty low. Add to that the weight, size, lack of maneuverability and the fact that the big ones required 2 or more men to keep them operating. Operating a steam engine is hard work too.
The hayday of steam traction engines was from about 1895? to 1925 or so and the last ones were made in the '40's. Gasoline, distilate and then diesel power had advantages over steam in just about every category .

Having said that, I have to tell you that some of the most enjoyable days of my life were spent operating steam traction engines at the local show. ";^)

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• Re: Re: Just how efficient were steam-powered tractors? JohnnyB 14:50:47 04/25/02 (0)

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