2014 - Volume #38, Issue #2, Page #42
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Electric Start Added To Old Tractor
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He says there’s a lot of history behind the project.
“My dad bought a new Simplicity garden tractor in 1952 for $386, and my job was to keep it running. As a result, over the years I’ve gained a love for these tractors,” says Stamper. “I developed back trouble and sometimes had trouble starting it, so I decided to convert the 5 3/4 hp Briggs & Stratton to electric start.”
He tore down the engine and completely rebuilt it. A generator/starter mounted on front of the tractor is used to belt-drive the motor. He added a big V-pulley to the motor, and installed a voltage regulator. He also built a metal case to hold a 12-volt battery. A metal dash was added between the handles and a key switch mounted on it that’s wired to the starter generator. He also installed an amp meter.
“When I turn the key it turns the starter generator on, and once the motor is going it goes back to being a generator. A car coil located below the battery feeds the points and fires the engine,” says Stamper. “It starts super easy and is very quiet.”
He says Simplicity tractors were well built and came with a wide variety of attachments. “They have 3 forward gears and one reverse. In my opinion, they were way ahead of their time. I’ve used my Simplicity tractors for 63 years, and they’re still going strong.
“My 1952 Simplicity is equipped with a lay-off plow on back that’s supported by 2 wheels that are used to regulate the depth. I also have another Simplicity with a cultivator supported by 2 wheels.”
Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Carl Stamper, 9703 West U.S. 60, Olive Hill, Ky. 41164 (ph 606 286-5464).
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