1952 Nuffield Universal 4

Tamar Vintage Tractors - 1952 Nuffield Universal 4
*Now Sold*
This 1952 Nuffield Universal 4 tractor began life as a petrol-powered TVO model, used on a market garden. However, as part of the Nuffield factory's engine replacement scheme, the original engine was swapped out and replaced with a more powerful 4-cylinder diesel engine.
 
Another highlight of this tractor is the early short PTO/hydraulic engagement lever located at the rear. The tractor also retains its full half shafts—another rarity, as they were often shortened for convenience when manoeuvring around narrow yards or gateways.
 
Mechanically, this tractor runs and drives exceptionally well. It is solid throughout, and the paint finish presents a beautiful shine.
 
It also comes with a current V5 document.
 
Based in Tavistock, Devon. 
 
Nationwide delivery can be arranged.
 
 
 
The Story Behind the Nuffield Universal
The Nuffield Universal tractor has an interesting backstory tied to post-WWII British recovery. In 1945, the British Government approached the Nuffield Organisation with a request to design and manufacture an all-British tractor. The task was entrusted to Dr. H.E. Merritt, a former David Brown tractor designer who had worked on tank designs during the war.
 
Tractor production was set to take place at the former Wolseley factory in Birmingham, as car production had recently shifted to Cowley. By May 1946, the first prototype tractor had been created, and a total of 12 more prototypes followed by the end of the year. This led to a public demonstration in Pershore in December of 1946, showcasing the potential of the new tractor design.
 
However, due to steel shortages in the post-war period, mass production of the Nuffield Universal had to wait until 1948. The tractor was officially launched at the Smithfield Show that December. 
 
The Nuffield Universal was produced in a striking red-orange colour known as "Poppy Orange," which had a hue similar to the American Allis-Chalmers tractors of the time.
 
Produced by the Agricultural Division of Morris Motors, the Nuffield Universal became an important part of British farming history, helping to modernize agriculture during a time of national recovery and growth.