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How to Build a Tractor Puller

Tractor pulling, or power pulling, is a popular motorsport in Europe, Australia, Brazil and the United States. The initial tractor pulling championships in the United States were conducted in Missouri and Ohio in 1929. By the 1950s, they became a regular feature at most county fairs. The early versions of the sport required the participants to pull heavy sledges with their tractors, the winner being the one who pulled it the farthest. As the technology improved, the tractors and weights have been modified and standardized rules have been established by the National Tractor Pullers Association. Some hobbyists prefer to build simple tractor pullers for amateur competitions, but this requires advanced mechanical knowledge and skills.

Things You'll Need

Tractor for modification
Engine
Clutch
Gear box
Pressure system

Instructions

- 1
  Plan your project. Define a budget and identify the class or level at which you are competing. The type of tractor you build depends on the requirements of the championship. Certain tractor-pulling sites such as the Liste Grove Pulling site in Pennsylvania do not allow any homemade tractor pullers. Remember that your budget and resources are directly proportional to the power of your tractor puller and the number of modifications to the original model. Think judiciously and go for a competition that is within your means.
- 2
  Find a tractor that suits your needs. The tractor will be modified into a pulling tractor, so it doesn̵7;t have to be a new one, but all the main parts, including the engine and transmission, should be in good working condition. Don̵7;t shy away from tractors that need a little servicing, such as an oil change, especially if you get a great deal. These services are usually cheap and can be performed at any tractor repair shop.
- 3
  Rebuild the engine with performance turbochargers, valve heads and racing fuel delivery systems. The parts you use and modifications you make depend on several factors, including the original tractor, requirements of the tractor puller and your budget. You may choose to rebuild an engine from scratch or use a pump that is readily available in the market, such as the Bosh A pump with 13-mm elements. Check to see if your engine is compatible with your tractor and the regulations of the competition.
- 4
  Upgrade the clutch, pressure system, and transmission gears of the tractor to cope with increased engine output. Also, change the gaskets, hoses and engine lubricants to meet the needs of the new engine.
- 5
  Replace the tires and wheels of the tractor. The type of tires and wheels needed again depends on the tractor you are building. You may use lighter rims and heavier back tires that bear the majority of the load during pulling. Perform a test run to check the working of the tractor puller before entering the competition.

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