Post-WWI Era (late 1910s and 1920s)

The tractor took off rapidly after WWI, and a greater variety of tractors were available from a number of companies. Tractors became smaller and faster and were able to undertake a greater variety of tasks. Power take-off became standard. This allowed direct transmission from the engine of the tractor to the farm tool attached to the rear. As a result farm tools were made lighter and more compact. As well, the working parts of the tractor began to be enclosed in an iron casing. Wheels still did not have tires at this time.

Notice in the image below how the tractor has become more compact. The entire machine is smaller and the parts are more compact behind the grille.

Compact Post WWI Tractors: Image courtesy of Dave Arnold, Vintage John Deere, 1995

Compact Post WWI Tractors: Image courtesy of Nick Baldwin and Andrew Morland, Classic American Farm Tractors, 1997

The working parts of the tractor below have been fully enclosed within an iron casing. This appears to have been more common closer to the 1930s. But not all tractors were completely enclosed.

Enclosed Engine: Image courtesy of Nick Baldwin and Andrew Morland