My Dad's Super A

I am curious as to how much difference there is between the Super A and the Model 140. They look very similar except for the hood and grill, but sometimes looks can be deceiving. Is anybody out there familiar with both?

Thanks in advance,

John

The front end got quite a make over in 1951, changes in steering box and it was changed to automotive type tyrods. The front wheels changed but that happened before 51. At serial number 310000 the block changed, giving SA same block as SC. The SA continued to be 113 cubic inch using thicker sleeves than SC with 123 cubic inch. At serial number 336711 the cooling system changed to presurized yet remained thermosyphon. At serial number 356001, displacment was changed to 123 cubic inches, water pump was added along with a larger radiator. In the time leading up to serial number 356001, minor changes were also made to brakes, final drives, hydraulics. From then on until end of production it became known a Super A1, and only 1,957 were built. By the end of production the Super A1 was basically a Farmall 100 with SA sheet metal.

Basic design never changed from A in 39 to the last 140 in 79. However in the evolution, probably more change occured during Super A production than at any other time.

The 100,130 and 140 went on to have single point fast hitch. Some claim a few SA had fast hitch, I wouldn't want to argue that one either way. With the increased power came larger tires, and that evolved also depending on the user A and early SA had 9.5x24 and by 140 11.2x24 was common and even a few 12.4x24.

After that the changes were minamul. 140 went to an atuomotive type water pump on fan hub. It had pressed steel front wheels, went to 12 volt mid 60s and later to 12 volt alternator During the last few years of 140 production the pull rod starter changed to solinoid and key start.

I've probably missed a few things. By the way where does John Wheeler hail from, and what was his dad's first name? Just a shot in the dark, but I knew some Wheelers when I was much younger.

I live near a small town, Arab, in Marshall County, North Alabama. I always lived nearby and have now moved back to the farm where I lived with my family from ages 2-20.

My family has deep roots in Northern Alabama, going back several generations. I worked for the U.S. Army Aviation-Missile Command near Huntsville for 35 years and traveled extensively. Now I'm grateful to be back home to stay.

I have 9.5 on my SA and 12.4 on the 130 and 140. On a hard gravel driveway provided the super A doesn't spin out it will give the other two a hard run for power on a drawbar pull. Where the other two leave the Super A in the dust is on loose tilled soil. Under those circumstances the Super A will usually spin out first however if it gets traction the other two will be all over it for power as they have that extra floatation.

I expect should I put 12.4 tires on the Super A it wouldn't hold a candle to either of the other two.

My dad's tractor has hydraulic lift and tie rods that look car-like, I'm not so sure about that. I'll have to check the serial number and get a better idea when it was built, etc.

To tell the truth, I could have easily had an argument with a guy yesterday, but decided to do some research before sticking my foot in my mouth. OK, 10 Cu. Inches, about 3 hp, and a pressurized radiator.

I won't mention it again unless he does.

Thanks, everyone. I'm glad I found this website. There is a wealth of information here. I've been participating in motorcycle websites for about 3 years. First vtxoa.com and now gl1800riders.com in case any of you might be interested or want to visit, they're both sponsored by Honda Direct Line (HDL).

Thanks again for the info!

I'll be back.

JW