Books by Brian Rukes
Explore our curated list of farming and tractor history books.
American Farm Tractor Dealerships
This nostalgic look at the fascinating industry will appeal to tractor and farm machinery enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the activities of the farm implement business. Farm equipment dealers have been supplying the needs of farmers, and through them the nourishment needs of the world, for well over the century. This well-researched reference documents the evolution of these dealerships and their equipment, through the personal accounts of many dealership owners and managers, as well as parts persons, servicemen, salesmen, and customers. Included in <i>American Farm Tractor Dealerships</i>:<ul><li>&break;&break;Vintage photos of showroom floors, building exteriors, service areas, and parts departments<li>&break;&break;Illustrations of floor plans<li>&break;&break;Marketing and promotional items businesses used, such as newspaper ads, giveaways and more</ul>
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John Deere Industrials
Ranging from simple model variations to those machines built for specific purposes, this industrial-grade volume chronicles the "other line" of John Deere machinery. A mainstay in heavy industry and construction sites throughout the world, John Deere Industrials begins with coverage of the popular A-series with its yellow paint and the letter "I" added to the model designation that has become the hallmark of these incredible machines. (Delayed from Spring 2002)
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Original John Deere Letter Series Tractors, 1923-1954
The 1923 Model D represented a watershed for Deere & Company insomuch as it was the implement-maker's first foray into tractor production after purchasing the Waterloo Gasoline Traction Engine Company. Ideal for those seeking authentic restorations, this marvelous color guide examines all of Deere's post-merger "Letter Series" tractors through the 1954 Model R. Each chapter features exhaustive data, color photography depicting handsomely restored tractors in evocative settings and up-close detail shots. Covers industrial tractors and crawlers, as well as agricultural models.
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Original John Deere Model A
One of John Deere's most successful tractors, the Model A is thoroughly chronicled in this color tribute. Detailed chapters cover: Introduction of the A; Unstyled Model A Row-Crops; Styled Model A Row-Crops; The Model A at Tractor Shows; The Unstyled Model AR; The "Baby R"; The Unstyled Model AO; Model AO Streamlined; The Styled Model AO; Model AI; and Model A Hi-Crop. Each chapter describes the tractor, and provides serial number range/production years, production changes, paint schemes, decal placement, and available equipment.
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