Bringing History Back to Life: 1934 Farmall F-12 with Period Mower

tamarvintagetractors
Oct 13
2 min read

Few machines evoke the spirit of early 20th-century farming quite like the Farmall F-12. Compact, practical, and built with a simplicity synonymous with early tractors, the F-12 played a key role in the mechanisation of small farms across America. Today, we’re delighted to share a particularly special example — this 1934 F-12 has been sympathetically restored and is now offered for sale at Tamar Vintage Tractors.

A Bit of Background: The Farmall F-12

The Farmall F-12 was produced by International Harvester at their Farmall Works factory in Rock Island, Illinois, between 1932 and 1938. It was designed as a low-cost, all-purpose tractor to replace horse-drawn equipment on smaller farms. Weighing in at around 2,500 lbs and producing roughly 10–14 horsepower at the drawbar, the F-12 was no powerhouse, but it didn’t need to be — it was a hard-working, nimble tractor that became a staple on countless American homesteads.

Only 25 units were manufactured in its first year (1932), so even early production models are now rare and desirable.

This particular tractor, serial numbered and dated to 1934, is a prime example of the model from the earliest years of production.

Rediscovered and Revived

Around a decade ago, this tractor was discovered stored away in a barn. Like so many vintage machines, its earlier life remains something of a mystery, but what’s certain is the care that’s gone into its sympathetic revival.

Rather than undergoing a full cosmetic restoration, the tractor has been preserved with its original patina intact — a finish that speaks to its age, use, and authenticity. Mechanically, however, it’s in excellent working order:

The engine starts easily, runs smoothly, and shows good oil pressure
No frost damage has been found — a crucial point for any vintage engine
Brakes and steering are both in good working condition
It sits on brand new tyres all around, ready for use or show

Period-Correct Features

Adding to its period charm is a correct finger bar mower attachment — a common and practical implement used with tractors of this type. It’s rare to find these mowers still fitted and operational, and even rarer to find them complete with original literature.

Included in the sale are:

A copy of the original Farmall lubrication chart
The instruction manual for the McCormick-Deering Farmall mower

These documents not only provide useful information for operation and maintenance, but also add historical value for collectors.

Registered and Road-Ready

Unfortunately the original registration was lost over the years, but the tractor has since been re-registered with the DVLA and comes with a current V5. This makes it far easier to insure, transport, and display at events.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a collector, restorer, or simply someone with a love for classic agricultural machinery, this 1934 Farmall F-12 offers something special. It’s a tractor that tells a story — one of working farms, simple engineering, and the transition from horse to machine.