This week's tractor comes from Jim Arens of Norfolk. I had a chance to ride with him this past summer on the KTIC Great Nebraska Tractor Ride.  Jim has done a very nice job restoring this 1959 JD 530. 

The 30 series was the last of the 2-cylinder models of course.  It took Jim about a-year-and-a-half to restore. Jim did the repaint himself with automotive paint and a clear-coat.  It was a one owner tractor owned by a gentlemen south of Stanton, Ne.  He bought it new in 1959 for $2,200.  He sold it to Jim for $4,000 because he wanted a bigger tractor.

During the full restoration, seats were added for Jim's grandkids to ride during parades and tractor rides.  I even rode on the buddy seats near Elhorn this past summer!  Although, I'm a little too tall, I must admit. 

Another interesting addition to the machine Jim has made is road gears for tractor rides.  Two gears were purchased from a man in Ohio who specializes in bigger gears for these slower JD tractors. Jim added a top and bottom gear which he says makes 4th and 6th gear faster.  I'm sure we got up to over 14 mph on the tractor ride. He says it's easy to change the gears, too!

Click on the photo for a closer look!