In an earlier blog post I explored the history of the Snap-Coupler hitching mechanism equipped on Allis-Chalmers tractors. While conducting that research I discovered that two Allis-Chalmers engineers designed implement latching systems for tractors. The chief engineer at the La Crosse Works, Willard Tanke, submitted the design trademarked Snap-Coupler. However, another design was patented but… Continue reading The Forgotten Allis-Chalmers Lift Latch
Tag: Farming
Allis-Chalmers Patent Archive
-New Page - I am starting a BIG project that involves researching, sorting, and cataloging Allis-Chalmers patents. Most of these documents are already online, but it takes some intense searching to find them. It is not as easy as typing in "Roto-Baler" and having all of those patents appear. There are a lot of great… Continue reading Allis-Chalmers Patent Archive
Snap-Coupler Hitch System
In the 1940s and 1950s farm equipment manufacturers began designing brand specific hitching systems that allowed implements to be mounted directly to the tractor for transporting. Allis-Chalmers developed a hitching mechanism it trademarked Snap-Coupler. The system was as simple as backing the tractor up to the tongue of the implement until the large hook mounted… Continue reading Snap-Coupler Hitch System
Roto-Baler Serial Numbers & Production
For those of you who own a Roto-Baler, do you want to know what year your machine was made? First, you need to locate the serial number on your baler. If you have a manual for the machine, it tells you where to find the number. For those of you who don't have the manual,… Continue reading Roto-Baler Serial Numbers & Production
Roto-Baler Safety
The Allis-Chalmers Roto-Baler is arguably one of the most complex farm machines ever devised. The machine was ahead of its time, and the company advertised it as the "turning point in hay history." Although the Roto-Baler was a revolutionary farm machine in its day, there were and still are dangers in operating this baler. I… Continue reading Roto-Baler Safety
Allis-Chalmers: Story of Man and Food #4
No 4. Science Aids the Farmer
How To Run Your Roto-Baler
If you would have bought an Allis-Chalmers Roto-Baler back in the day, you would need something to understand how the machine worked. The buyer would have received his operator’s manual, but I am not sure of the circumstances a buyer would have received this small booklet. This booklet has some information about the Roto-Baler setup… Continue reading How To Run Your Roto-Baler
Allis-Chalmers: Story of Man and Food #3 & #5
Here are #3 and #5 of the Story of Man and Food by Allis-Chalmers. Unfortunately, I am missing #4. Could anyone help me out?
Allis-Chalmers: Story of Man and Food #1 & #2
My Visit to the Wisconsin Historical Museum
Molly and I spent the day down in Madison, Wisconsin. There are a number of places to visit down there, but the Wisconsin Historical Museum has always been on my list of places to visit. The museum has a wonderful building on the corner of West Mifflin Street and North Carroll Street. Admission to the museum is based on suggested donations.… Continue reading My Visit to the Wisconsin Historical Museum
The Weekend Historian 