[AJD] Antique-johndeere Digest, Vol 35, Issue 4 ;Re: model B

[E. Thatcher]

I may be a little fuzzy on the exact beginning of production for the 47 model B's but I believe there is a readily apparent distinction between them and the immediate predecessor version. Beginning with the 47 model Deere switched to a pressed steel frame, increased displacement and horsepower, added the battery box seat, power troll (option), roll-0-matic (option), and offered a gasoline only engine configuration.  In addition in 47 the flywheel became completely enclosed on the A and B models.  We owned an early 47 model B that my Dad bought around January or February of 47 when he began farming on his own after the War.  I'm not 100% certain about the grill screens but I seem to remember them as having a rectangular pattern.  Ours had a narrow front end but no roll-o-matic.  I also remember him complaining about the production quality of this early postwar tractor. We kept it until 1964. I would love to know what happened to it after we sold it. If anyone out there has or has come across an early 47 B with a narrow non roll-o-matic front end that was originally shipped to the Jerseyville, IL area, let me know.  I have few pictures of it when we owned it as well as short video (converted from 8mm film) of it starting and running.  

Eric Thatcher
St. Peters, MO (formerly Carrollton, IL)