“The tractor is a 1952 Farmall Cub,” said Cameron Pokorny, Waupun. “My Grandpa gave it to me. He used it when he farmed; he was a dairy farmer his whole life.”
As an older member of the Waupun FFA and the Achievers 4-H Club, Pokorny thought now’s the time to put his plan into action. “I had the tractor a few years and thought it was a waste to let it sit around. So, I talked to my FFA advisor at school, Mr. Seichter (Ryan), about restoring the tractor. He teaches tech-shop classes and everything related to that. He said let’s do it.”
Pokorny was able to blend the tractor-restoration process with his education. “I decided to take advanced ag maintenance, so I could work on it during school. Then I finished it this summer.”
Starting in April of this year, Pokorny put a lot of effort into learning about his tractor. “It was an all-hands-on-deck project. I had to talk to different people to learn about the various parts and aspects of the tractor. I really liked learning how to paint with a spray gun. Once the tractor was sandblasted, I learned to use a primer and paint with a reducer or hardener to help the paint go through the spray gun. I also had to rebuild the carburetor, which was a great learning experience for me.”
The satisfaction of finishing the tractor-restoration project is significant for Pokorny. “I finished it on Monday (of fair week); it started right up on the first try. The project is a testament to what can happen if you put your mind to something and see it through. In addition, having it in great condition helps me to pass it along as a family heirloom. I’m really grateful for that.”
Pokorny’s restored 1952 Farmall Cub tractor is located in the Youth Building during the Dodge County Fair. Visitors can stop by and take a look. There’s also a display board with information about the project.
The Dodge County Fair is scheduled for Aug. 18-22, 2021.
Written by Dori Lichty — farm wife, 4-H Mom, and full-time communicator
