I think the first major improvement was when manufacturers settled on what is today pretty much the standard configuration: Two large traction wheels in back, steering wheels in front, with the operator riding between the rear wheels. If you get a chance to see some of the pre-war designs, there were a lot of horrible configurations. Some were even steered by reins, like the tractor was a team of horses.
The internal combustion engine was a big improvement over steam, but it was inevitable once it took hold in automobiles that it would be the engine of choice in farm tractors.
Certainly the three-point hitch was a major development for safety and utility. And the power takeoff was a big step forward from belt pulleys. (belts being a holdover from steam engine days.)
I would say that pretty much all improvements in tractor technology have been evolutionary rather than revolutionary. Automatic transmissions, hydraulics, power steering, electric starting, four wheel drive all came about because the technology was available. Very few developments originated with tractors. The Ferguson 3-point hitch system is a notable exception.
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Today's Featured Article - My Ford Golden Jubilee - by Troy Estes. This article is about my '53 Ford Jubilee and a story that starts with taking the tractor to my brother's Starter/Alternator Rebuilding shop for a wiring fix. The generator was shot as well as all the wiring. I dropped off the tractor expecting a transformation from a 6 volt to a 12 volt system utilizing the original generator housing, and a total rewiring of the whole tractor. The front end center pin bushing was worn also so I ask that they replace it if they had time. Well, that’s wha
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