The Long A is a vintage row-crop tractor manufactured by Long during the years 1948 to 1949. This classic agricultural machine represents a piece of farming history, known for its utility and reliability during its era. With a Continental gasoline engine and a straightforward design, the Long A was a workhorse on many farms, offering a reasonable power output for various tasks. Its simple and open operator station, manual steering, and independent mechanical shoe brakes characterize the straightforward and rugged nature of this tractor. Although it may lack the advanced features of modern tractors, the Long A remains a cherished collector’s item for those who appreciate its historical significance in the world of agriculture.
| Long A Specs |
|---|
| Production Years | 1948 – 1949 |
| Type | Row-Crop Tractor |
| Manufacturer | Long |
| Factory Location | Tarboro, North Carolina, United States |
| Long A Power |
|---|
| Drawbar (Claimed) | 26 horsepower (19.4 kW) |
| Belt (Claimed) | 29 horsepower (21.6 kW) |
| Drawbar (Tested) | 28.58 horsepower (21.3 kW) |
| Belt (Tested) | 31.82 horsepower (23.7 kW) |
| Engine Detail |
|---|
| Engine Type | Continental |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Displacement | 163 cubic inches (2.7 liters) |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.4375×4.375 inches (87 x 111 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 6.23:1 |
| Rated RPM | 1800 |
| Starter Voltage | 6 volts |
| Transmission |
|---|
| Transmission Type | Unsynchronized Gear |
| Number of Gears | 4 Forward and 1 Reverse |
| Clutch Type | Dry Disc |
| Mechanical |
|---|
| Chassis | 4×2 2WD |
| Steering | Manual |
| Brake Type | Independent Mechanical Shoe |
| Cab | Open Operator Station |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Unsynchronized Gear |
| Belt Pulley |
|---|
| Diameter | 8 inches (20 cm) |
| Width | 8 inches (20 cm) |
| RPM | 1456 |
| Speed | 3050 feet per minute (929.64 meters per minute) |
| Long A Tires |
|---|
| Front Tires | Ag (Agricultural) – 5.50-16 |
| Rear Tires | Ag (Agricultural) – 11-38 |
| Dimensions |
|---|
| Wheelbase | 83 inches (210 cm) |
| Operating Weight | 3618 pounds (1641 kg) |
| Ballasted Weight | 5692 pounds (2581 kg) |
| Front Tread | 8 inches (20 cm) |
| Rear Tread | 56 to 84 inches (142 to 213 cm) |
The Long A is a noteworthy collection model in the world of vintage tractors, celebrated for its historical value and unique characteristics. What sets it apart from other tractors of its time is its robust Continental gasoline engine, which delivered reliable power for various farming tasks. The Long A’s unsynchronized gear transmission with four forward and one reverse gear, combined with its straightforward design and manual steering, made it a versatile and dependable workhorse on farms in the late 1940s and early 1950s.
One of the key features that make the Long A special is its role in preserving farming history. As a piece of agricultural heritage, it represents a bygone era when tractors were simple yet indispensable tools for farmers. The open operator station and independent mechanical shoe brakes showcase its rugged and utilitarian design, which was well-suited for the demands of the time.
Collectors and enthusiasts value the Long A not only for its functionality but also for its historical significance. Owning and restoring one of these tractors allows individuals to connect with the past and appreciate the evolution of farming technology. Its distinctive design, coupled with its production history in Tarboro, North Carolina, adds to its uniqueness and desirability among tractor collectors.
While the Long A may lack the modern conveniences and advanced features of today’s tractors, its place in agricultural history is firmly established. It serves as a symbol of the hard work and dedication of the farmers who relied on such machines to cultivate their lands. As a collection model, the Long A holds a special place in the hearts of tractor enthusiasts, preserving the legacy of a simpler but crucial era in farming.