In this oral history recording, John Boyens shares the story of finding and restoring his unique French-built IH Super C Farmall diesel tractor. 

It was built in France at a time when gasoline was very expensive compared to diesel fuel. It was one of International’s first attempts at designing a direct start diesel engine, and was not known as a reliable unit. 

John's tractor was found in Belgium and was shipped to the U.S. with other equipment at a cost to John of $800. It was purchased with a spare diesel engine which was needed for parts as the original engine was damaged. 

John’s saga of finding and gathering the necessary parts to restore this unique tractor is explained in detail in this video. 

This oral history was shared at the Red Power Roundup in Union Grove, Wisconsin on June 17, 2016. John was interviewed by Sally Jacobs, archivist for the International Harvester Collection at the Wisconsin Historical Society.

 

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