1949 Model A Pedal Tractor

[alanwich@yahoo.com]

I have what I believe is a restored 1949 ESKA Model A John Deere pedal tractor. This has been in the family for over 60 years and was professionally restored about 25 years ago. Looking to verify this is an original tractor and not a reproduction, and also an estimated value.









 

[rrlund]

Sticking my neck out, but if it's been in the family for 60 years, it's a safe bet that it's the real thing. There were some pedals reproduced in the 90s, but my guess is, that ain't one of'em.
 

[alanwich@yahoo.com]

That is what I thought when I started looking into this, but sounds like this model was reproduced by other companies as early as the late 50's or early 60's. Trying to find someone that can determine without a doubt as I am guessing the value changes significantly.
 

[gmccool]

I looked in my pedal tractor book & the only thing that stands out as not right is that it would have had when new what is called teardrop pedals. It is hard for me to see your pedals clearly but they appear to be hard rubber which is correct but they should be teardrop shaped. My Email is open & if you want to send me some closer pics of your pedals & front & rear tires I will confirm if they are correct or not. Your tractor was made in 1949-50-51 with no changes made in those three years.
 

[rrlund]

All I know is, on the Oliver reproductions, they're said to be a quarter inch shorter than the originals because of shrinkage in the molds. You'd need one known to be original to know though.
 

[alanwich@yahoo.com]

The pedals are tear drop shape. These along with the tires were replaced during the restoration about 25 years ago.