"Gathering of the Green"

 

WORKSHOPS

Hi, it’s Meli again and I’m delighted to provide you with a short description of each workshop, drop-in session and special activities (designed for the ladies) during the 2010 “Gathering of the Green” conference. The workshop descriptions are listed alphabetically by title. Note that the workshop information is subject to change.       You can navigate back and forth between the Workshop Schedule and Workshop Descriptions by clicking on the words in green print.       The WORKSHOP SCHEDULE containing workshop titles, names of leaders, days and times is NOW POSTED on its very own PAGE. The following workshop topics are currently scheduled for the 2010 “Gathering of the Green.” Check regularly for additions to the workshop list. THE FINE ART OF FINE TUNING A TWO-CYLINDER ENGINE       Cork Groth Cork has a beautiful old 1937 unstyled “B” that runs like the celebrated “Singer sewing machine.” It’s no wonder that two-cylinder enthusiasts seek Cork out at tractor shows asking that he listen to their tractors and give them a quick assessment of how to make their old machines run better. In fact, Cork has found it helpful to take his own little “doctor’s bag” loaded with most of the necessary tools to offer an informed “diagnosis.” In this workshop, Cork will discuss carburetion, ignition, timing, valve adjustment, compression and the process of getting everything in sync – all of the elements to make your tractor “run like a Deere.” We know you’ll have questions, so come prepared to participate in the discussion. ASSESSING A TWO-CYLINDER TRACTOR FOR PURCHASE & EVALUATION       Tony Knobbe Join Tony Knobbe in the Vendor Hall for a LIVE, INTERACTIVE demonstration as he tears into an early JD styled “A.” This workshop is intended to instruction the participant how to look for clues of what might be found inside of the tractor before you purchase it. The session will include assessment of engine, clutch, transmission, steering and brakes. Tony will then walk you through an internal assessment of major components such as valves, head, block, cylinder walls, pistons, crankshaft and clutch and then determine the level of repair/machining necessary to bring the beast back to life. The workshop is sure to have you itching to grasp a wrench and dive in. BABBETT BEARING RESTORATION DEMONSTRATION       Mike Williams Join veteran machinist and restoration expert Mike Williams for a live demonstration of his babbett bearing repair techniques. This workshop will be held in the Great River Hall (vendor hall) with plenty of up-close viewing space. Art, science, witchcraft? You be the judge! Mike will take volunteers from the crowd who wish to try their hand at this technique. BASIC TRACTOR RESTORATION: The Rusty Acres Approach       Dan Peterman Join full-time restorer, Dan Peterman who operates his own restoration shop, as he focuses on the basic restoration of a tractor from its initial purchase to its first appearance at Expo. He will cover some of the little extra tips of the trade to make your restoration easier and also focus on the products that help make a restoration turn out like it should. Dan will also touch on detailing and what it takes to make your tractor stand out in the crowd. BEER & BULL GEARS       Tony Knobbe Join Tony Knobbe and friends at the Radisson Atrium/Bar on Friday afternoon at 5:00 p.m. for the “Gathering of the Green” version of “Happy Hour.” It’s a chance to kick back, relax, listen and share with fellow John Deere “nuts” some of the memorable blunders which have occurred over the years while restoring and exhibiting our old machines. Come prepared to participate in this fun hour of reminiscing. A cash bar will be available. CUSTOM HARVESTING IN THE PLAINS WITH JOHN DEERE COMBINES: From Texas to Canada       Ron Misener Join Ron Misener, operator of a custom harvesting company for thirty-five years, as he discusses all aspects of his interesting business including how and why the profession began. Ron, his wife, Kristy, their family and crew begin harvesting crops in Texas in May and work their way north – ending the season near the Canadian border in November. His stories of this nomadic life of moving, combining, moving and starting the process over and over will keep you interested throughout the session. DEVELOPMENT OF JOHN DEERE EARLY NUMBERED SERIES TRACTORS       Dean Van Peursem Dean spent many memorable hours as a teenager on the seat of a John Deere Model 70 gas tractor on his family’s Iowa farm. His memories were rekindled many years later when he purchased a Model 60 and became aware of all the significant advances that were made on the early numbered series tractors. Join Dean as he shares market and competitive conditions of agricultural tractors in the late 1940s and 1950s which let to Deere’s decision in 1949 to introduce the numbered series. Learn about the new features and benefits of the model 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 tractors including the hitches and aftermarket options. These tractors played an important role in the evolution of John Deere tractors but they are often overlooked by collectors and restorers. Dean has acquired extensive knowledge of this series so take this opportunity to increase your awareness of these beautiful old machines. DO’S and DON’TS OF ARRANGING AN AUCTION       Vern Mariman Why choose the auction method of marketing? Join longtime auctioneer, Vern Mariman, as he discusses what you need to know about the workings of an auction from beginning to end. He will cover the factors you should consider when selecting an auctioneer including the importance of developing a working relationship between auctioneer and seller and how best to achieve an overall successful auction. Vern will engage you in a discussion on different area practices and policies of auctioneers around the country. Come with your questions and be ready to enjoy this workshop. ENGINE HEADS and COOLING SYSTEMS       Bill & Jared Dies Another new topic which will very much interest “Gathering” attendees. Join this experienced father-son team who operate their own radiator and automotive service business for an interesting discussion of your tractor's cooling system. Topics will include radiator and engine head inspection, diagnosis and repair. Head and valve rebuilding tips will also be covered as well as currently available coolant types which will be compared and contrasted. Put this workshop on your list and come with questions. G.P. SERIES: Total Restoration Tips       Cork Groth Cork’s interest in the G.P. tractors started at the very first Two-Cylinder Expo in 1987 where he met Mr. Gene Olson of Minden, Nebraska and his immaculately restored G.P. Standard. After this meeting he knew he was “hooked” on G.P. tractors and immediately started looking for one. Since that meeting he has acquired G.P. standards, G.P. orchards, G.P. side-steer wide-treads, a G.P. over-the-top steer wide tread, a G.P. potato model, and a G.P. standard cross-over. Very few of these ran, so it was time for him to learn how to restore a G.P. In this workshop, Cork will share some of the techniques he has learned during many GP restorations. Some examples are: removing stuck pistons; replacing the leaking felt seals with modern seals; getting proper lubrication to the governor; carburetor and magneto rebuilding; P.T.O. and mechanical lift rebuilding; rabbeting and machining main and rod bearings; getting the slop out of the clutch linkage; brake relining; proper tappet adjustment; and the list goes on. Please bring your G.P. questions and Cork will do his best to answer them. HAY BALING: AN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE       Dave Mello The evolution of the hay baler from early pitch-in stationary machines to modern, high speed automatics has always been one of Dave Mello’s favorite subjects. Those who have spent time looking over their shoulder at a baler will appreciate this journey through time, remembering how it was when the baler man listened to the exhaust as a way of measuring bale density, and baling ten tons of hay was considered a good days’ work. From the small, PTO-powered, “family size” Midwest balers to the big, engine-driven, three-wire machines that dominated hay baling in the West, the story of the hay baler is a fascinating study of both good and bad engineering. You are almost certain to recognize some “old friends” among the various balers shown in this interesting presentation, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching into your pocket for that extra shear pin. THE HISTORY OF BARNS       Rick Collins Join master timber frame contractor, Rick Collins, for an interesting look into the history of barns. Rick will discuss timber framing methods as well as deconstructing, reconstructing, and moving existing barns. He will feature the story of a barn built just 30 miles from Quad Cities in 2009. HISTORY OF THE WATERLOO BOY TRACTOR       Kent Kaster Kent acquired his first Waterloo Boy, a 1916 model, in 1985, followed by seven more in 1988 that have since been restored and sold. Kent will discuss the different models of Waterloo Boy tractors, the changes over the years, the years of production (basically 1915-1924) changes in transmissions, water pumps, radiators, bull gears, paint colors and decals, and the tractor value over the past 20 years. There are not many John Deere enthusiasts in the hobby who have the knowledge and experience with Waterloo Boy tractors as does Kent. INDUSTRIAL JOHN DEERE: IN THE BEGINNING       Ray Wood Take a step back in time with Ray Wood as he shares interesting information about Deere & Company?s industrial applications of early John Deere tractors, moves forward through the green 1950s, and finally on to the first industrial yellow tractors of the 1958-1959 period. Ray will give specific attention to model 440 Industrial wheel tractors and 440 Industrial crawlers along with related mounted equipment including loaders, dozers, winches, log arches, cable plows and HD side-mounted model tractors with pull-type and semi-integral Hancock elevating scrapers ad will include a brief look at the Holt 3-T fork lift. This session will be a significant historical look at Deere?s move into the industrial field. Come, enjoy and be ready to ask questions. JOHN DEERE 800 SERIES HITCHES       Dean Van Peursem Come and expand your range of knowledge as Dean Van Peursem takes you through Deere & Company’s development timeline, announcement and production of various hitches. He will address the many versions of the 800 series hitches the Company sold for use on their tractors including special configurations and upgrades. Dean has acquired all versions of the 800 Series Hitches and many of the earlier and later JD hitches plus associated special accessories and compatible implements. Along with these, he has accumulated parts and owner’s manuals for each of the hitches and associated implements, performed a significant amount of research in various publications and JD archives, and built a wealth of knowledge about all aspects of these unique devices which he will share with you. Details will be included on the identification, assembly and restoration of each version of the 9 types of 800 Series Hitches plus more. Don’t miss this very informative and interesting workshop. JOHN DEERE DIESEL TRACTOR REPAIR & RESTORATION       Albert Ulrich This workshop is intended to be as informational as possible for those interested in the total repair and restoration of the John Deere diesel tractor. The information to be presented is based on Albert Ulrich’s experience over the years of having completely disassembled and reassembled many of these tractors of different models in all states of disrepair and operating condition … to the point of having to remanufacture some parts which are unavailable today. These tractors, upon completion, were work-ready for the farm, or show-ready. The tractors were all equal to the day they were manufactured, and some had been tweaked and restored beyond the capabilities of their day of complete manufacture. Albert’s session will be filled with important information and of help to all who attend. Come with your questions. JOHN DEERE’S EARLY TRACTOR DEVELOPMENT: Waterloo & Before       Chris Boyens If you’re a new John Deere hobbyist, or a longtime collector, you most likely are familiar with the Froelich and the Dain. You’ve also heard that the Model D was the first tractor to bear the John Deere name. In this session we will go back in time to look at John Deere’s tractor development before the purchase of the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company. This investigative presentation is designed to encourage the audience to look at the history of John Deere tractors and explore developments from Deere engineers, including Melvin and Sklovsky, and the connection with companies such as Gas Traction Company and McVickers. Come enjoy and discover a vital time in John Deere history. JOHN DEERE MODEL G: From Front to Back       John Bennehoff Join this well-known “G” expert as he covers the Model G tractor from the beginning of the unstyled to the end of the styled production, including information on parts interchange from year to year and details to watch for when buying and/or restoring a “G.” For those interested in the Model G, there should be some useful information to take along when you go Deere hunting. JOHN DEERE MOLDBOARD PLOWS       David Wolfe Join author and plow enthusiast, Dave Wolfe for this workshop which will focus on the tractor-type moldboard plows built from 1914 to 1960 (the two cylinder era). This workshop will be different from his past sessions as a tractor and plow will be in a simulated plowing position. Plow set-up will be the main focus. Depth, vertical, horizontal, and coulter adjustments will be covered as well as tractor wheel position and weight transfer. This will be a hands-on session working with a real tractor and plow. Actual adjustments will be made by assistants during the workshop. A general question and answer session will follow. JOHN DEERE POWR-TROL SYSTEM: Description, Overhaul & Testing       Gary McLaughlin This workshop will include general information on (1) hydraulics, including the laws of physics relating to hydraulic systems, the relationship between area, pressure and force, and the relationship between volume, area and distance; (2) hydraulic pumps used on John Deere tractors; (3) the Powr-Trol system for models A, B, G, R, AR-AO, 50 and 60, including working parts and oil flow, operating, release and relief valves, remote cylinder operation and flow, rockshaft operation and flow, metering screw and throttle valve, and positioning the inner check valve for various cylinders; and (4) overhaul and testing, including checking relief valve cracking pressure on the tractor, disassembly, checking inner and outer check valves, testing check valve for leakage and adjusting cam blades and operating valve. You can have your Powr-Trol in top-notch working order after this session. JOHN DEERE SINGLE INDUCTION CARBURETORS       Mark Schraut Mark will focus this workshop on the John Deere Single Induction Carburetor. He will cover topics such as operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting related to the single induction-style carburetor. He will go over the do’s and don’ts of repairs and address the successful disassembling, repair and reassembling of your carburetor. Be sure to bring all you questions regarding the single induction carburetor and Mark will do his best to provide answers and provide an entertaining and informative workshop. JOHN DEERE TOY COLLECTING       Eldon Trumm Join veteran toy expert, Eldon Trumm for a presentation on farm toy manufacturing processes. Eldon will compare sand casting and die casting techniques, discuss the tooling involved, and explore the various toys he has manufactured for the collector market. Toy enthusiasts should put this workshop on their “must attend” list. JOHN DEERE TWO-CYLINDER CLUTCH REPAIR AND ASSESSMENT       Mike Williams Mike Williams is a recognized expert on John Deere two-cylinder tractor clutches in general; however, in this workshop, he will address the early Model D and the early “G,” “BR,” & “BO” clutches, pulleys and associated gears and crankshafts. In addition, some information regarding the Model H clutches will be included. Regardless of the model or year of your two-cylinder tractor, you will find this session contains lots of valuable information as you assess, repair and/or rebuild the clutch on your old “popper.” We know you’ll have a “thousand questions” so plan on attending. JOHN DEERE TWO-CYLINDER CRAWLERS       Chris Aspegren This workshop will include a general history of the John Deere Crawlers and the evolution into the industrial market, from Deere’s purchase of the Lindeman factory to becoming one of the world’s leading manufacturers of construction equipment. Beyond a general history, this workshop will discuss the process of purchasing a crawler through its complete restoration. In addition, Chris will address some of the needed specialty shop tools and lifting equipment as well as some tricks of the trade. Some examples are: removing master track pins, removing and rebuilding final drives, repairing direction reversers, rebuilding track rollers, examining drive sprockets, removing stubborn bolts, fabricating linkage, and many others. Come prepared with any questions you may have and Chris will do his best to answer them. KELLER’S COLOSSAL COLLECTION: The Rest of the Story by Video & Word       Walter & Bruce Keller The Kellers have one of the largest and most exceptional collections of John Deere tractors anywhere. People from all over are eager to see these extraordinary machines housed in nine sheds and two barns. Walter and Bruce have kindly accepted our invitation to lead a workshop at the “Gathering” and they will show excerpts from the video, Keller’s Colossal Collection and tell you the “Rest of the Story.” Join them as they share some of the interesting experiences they’ve had in collecting the 60 plus first-production and experimental tractors in their collection. Walter and Bruce invite you to ask any questions you might have or discuss topics of interest related to their many years of collecting John Deere tractors. LAWN and GARDEN TRACTORS       Rick & Mary Herbers Restoring and collecting lawn and garden tractors is an increasingly popular activity in which many, many "Gathering" attendants are interested. Plan to join Mary Herbers, Ertl employee and writer for Green Magazine, and her husband, Rick, as they give an overview of the hobby and describe how things have evolved in the eight years they have been collecting. Serial number lists will be shared as well as parts suppliers and paint code information. Repair, restoration, and technical questions will be addressed, and your questions are welcomed and encouraged. LOCTITE ADHESIVES AND SEALANTS FOR TRACTOR MAINTENANCE       Brad Perkins Longtime Loctite expert, Brad Perkins will describe the many excellent Loctite products available to tractor restorers as well as sharing the procedures of proper application of these products. Topics will include threadlockers, gasketing products and adhesives. The presentation will include Loctite product features, benefits and typical applications on John Deere machinery and package availability. In addition, Brad will discuss the newest maintenance and repair products available from the company. Leaking tractors is an issue with every restorer so this workshop is an important and timely one. LP VALVES       Allen Jarosz This workshop covers all aspects of LP fuel systems from fuel blends and calculating storage tank pressure, to fueling the tractor. Come along for an inside look at LP valves, how they work, and the safety devices built into the valves including a high pressure demonstration of the valve safety features. The session then moves into the importance of maintaining the integrity of the tractor air intake system and caps off with a complete tear down and rebuild of the M4 LP converter found on Waterloo built tractors. The rebuilding of the M4 converter also covers the testing and adjusting of the converter with theory of operation. Rebuild kits with complete parts and instructions will be made available for purchase, portions of the LP-Gas service manual will be offered free of charge. “L” SERIES TRACTORS       Steve, Dale & Dwayne Ridenour The “L” Series tractors workshop will be a walk-through of the history of the “L” Series tractor starting with the Model Y to the "62" and all the way through to the “LA.” We will discuss how to tell the difference between all models and how to determine the year if the serial number tag is missing. Production numbers of the "L" Series as well as serial number breaks will be one part of the workshop. We will also cover some of the most commonly-asked questions that we get from fellow collectors. Dale and Dwayne will spend some time on the implements and accessories available for these tractors. The workshop will be presented in PowerPoint and they hope it will be enjoyable as well as informative. The session will end with questions and answers. MACHINE SHOP TOUR – ABRAHAMS MACHINE SERVICE       Dave Mattison Join us for a tour of the Abraham's Machine Service shop. You will take a short bus ride from the River Center to the shop located only a few blocks from the River Center where you will listen to a presentation of their machining and repair capabilities and view work being performed on John Deere two-cylinder engine components. Sign up for this tour near the Check-In table located on the first floor concourse of the River Center South building. Note that space is limited so sign up as quickly as possible. MAGNETOS: Theories and Problems       John Boyens This session will discuss how a magneto works from the “ground” level to give the magneto novice a chance to learn the “+” and “-“ of magnetos. The focus of the session will be on the general procedures on repairing the various magnetos used on John Deere tractors and engines up through the 1950’s. There will be examples of all the different types utilized and some of the not so utilized and common replacements. If you ever had questions about mags, this is the time to ask them. THE MODEL A TRACTOR       Gary Hoefling This workshop on the John Deere Model A tractor is the first for a “Gathering” conference so Model A aficionados should plan on joining Gary Hoefling as he shares factual and historical information on this often “taken for granted” tractor. Gary will address specifics such as how many were made, dimensions, bore, stroke, tire size, speeds, transmissions, horse power as well as the basic operational aspects of the Model A. In addition he will present helpful hints on how to use a hand start, how to tell if the old “A” is running well, including how the foot brakes and hand clutch operate as well as all of the features of these venerable old tractors. Plenty of time will be allowed for questions. MODEL D EVOLUTION & TROUBLESHOOTING 1931-1953       Mike Williams The first tractor designed entirely by Deere & Company was the Model D, manufactured from 1923 to 1953. This popular workhorse has a long and interesting evolutionary history which Mike Williams will address in this workshop. Specifically focusing on the year 1931 and forward, he will discuss running changes in the sheet metal, steering, clutch, engine, transmission, final drive and wheel assembly along with the many available options which were offered through the years such as rice packages, lighting and hydraulic kits, operating comfort alternatives, and listed crop versions. Mike likes to have audience participation, so come with your questions and be ready to join in the discussion. NOTES FROM A JOHN DEERE TIN BENDER       Gene Holmes You think it’s hard to straighten your sheet metal! Gene Holmes spent 34 years at John Deere Downtown Tractor Works (now the Component Works) with visits to NE Site-Tractor Assembly and Product Engineering Center (PEC). He started in the tool grinding department, was accepted into the John Deere tool and die apprenticeship, spent 21 years in tool and die making, and the remainder of this time at Deere as a tool supervisor. You’ll hear about the history of sheet metal tooling changes, difficult parts, and the trials and tribulations of new parts production, including assemblies such as the two-cylinder orchard parts, fenders, 30 series bumped out nose, and the New Generation gas tank and hood. If you’re interested in what’s going on related to producing a tractor, don’t miss this one. PICKING THROUGH JOHN DEERE PICKERS: Finding the Best of What’s Out There       Bob Johnson Americans have been growing corn since the natives taught them how to produce a crop, but corn was the last major crop to have equipment engineered to harvest it. Small grain harvesting was mechanized long before corn pickers were developed – with design elements which, in part, eventually made corn pickers’ success short-lived. Our dads and granddads raced the elements to gather in the harvest, marching to the beat of ears of corn against the wagon bang-board, and watching with envy as neighbors with pickers hauled in record loads of golden ears – taking a day to pick as much as they had in two weeks – until they, too, could afford a shiny new corn picker. Join Bob Johnson as he discusses all aspects of these marvelous machines. RESTORING JOHN DEERE NEW GENERATION TRACTORS       Dan Brotzman Dan will cover restoring a 4230 High Crop tractor including some of the unique features of a high crop tractor such as the front axle with its brace rods, the reinforced engine oil pan, the drop down rear final drives, 3 point hitch, and draw bar hitch. In addition, he will also cover restoring a 3010 gas standard tractor including engine rebuilding, painting process, rear tire mounting, and detailing. So New Generation enthusiasts should mark this workshop on their list as a “must attend.” SHIPPING TRACTORS & PARTS to EUROPE & VISA VERSA       Arjan van Lenthe This workshop will tell about Arjan’s experience of the last few years of shipping containers of US tractors and parts from the USA overseas to the Netherlands, and of shipping containers back with European tractors from the Netherlands to the USA. He will share information on how the containers are loaded and how long that process takes. In addition, Arjan will address the difference in regulations between Customs of the two countries, including what to do and what to avoid. Finally, he’ll discuss the process of restoring American tractors in Europe and the problems encountered in getting parts for them in Europe. Arjan will come from his home in the Netherlands to be with us in Moline. SHOP SAFETY       Brian Holst Mr. Dang-it is a self-made man from barefoot country. His education is somewhat sketchy as all records were lost during a school fire caused by Dang’s science class project that went terribly wrong. Mr. Dang proclaims that he graduated from the school of Hard Knox…but some have doubts that he even graduated at all. Dang says he is a self-taught mechanic, self-taught restoration specialist, and some say he is also self-destructible. Mr. Dang was asked to be a part of this session by his good friend, Shane Hatch, although he is not sure anybody can comprehend any of his perfected credentials. Mr. Dang thought it would be a good opportunity, however, to let other collectors and restorers see his “special” talents and let everyone who attends be better acquainted with shop safety. You’ll learn and smile a lot at this one! SOURCING PARTS       Tyler Buchheit Tyler will share his knowledge and experiences in sourcing parts for repairs or restorations on tractors and implements. Much of the workshop will center around using the Internet for search options, but it will also dig deep into understanding and explaining the logistics of the John Deere parts catalog. Tyler will focus on giving tips in locating both original OEM and aftermarket reproduction parts from traditional and online vendors. If all this talk of eBay, internet and online searches has you fearful, please set in on this session to be introduced to the basics of online searching and reunited with the ‘old school’ parts catalogs! Tyler will include a list of helpful hints that offers many sources for parts. SPOKED FLYWHEEL “D”       Kent Pribil Making tractor history, the first Model D rolled off the production line in March of 1923 and continued until July 3, 1953 for a total of thirty years. Among the many Model D tractors produced was the “Spoker D” with a six-spoke flywheel. These prized tractors are sought after by collectors and Kent Pribil has two of them. Join Kent as he leads a discussion of the general “types” of the famed “Spoker D” and the parts which make them unique. STARTING, CHARGING & LIGHTING – 12 & 24 VOLT SYSTEMS       Tom Donahy Are you baffled by the starting, charging and lighting system used on your John Deere tractors? This session will attempt to take the mystery and fear out of working with this system. Tom will cover the basics of both 12 and 24 volt systems. Differences between systems will be pointed out and Tom will discuss not only how the system works but will show you how to troubleshoot it when you return home. Bring your questions to this interactive class. STOPPING THAT FRONT WHEEL SHIMMY & POWER STEERING PROBLEMS       Richard Duane With the coming of tractor road tours come thoughts of having fun. However, tractor enthusiasts need to have the conscious thought of safety including steering-related issues. With most of the tractors reaching retirement age of 50 to 60 or more years, we really need to look at some of the problems that occur. Rich Duane, a manufacturer of reproduction parts for John Deere tractors, will show you some of the remedies available to fix steering and power steering problems. THEORY, ADJUSTMENT and TROUBLESHOOTING of TWO-CYLINDER DISTRIBUTOR IGNITIONS       Tom Donahy If you want to learn about distributor-type ignition systems used on two-cylinder tractors, then don’t miss this workshop. You will learn about the relationship between volts, amps and ohms, and how to apply theory to your tractor back home including how to install points and condensers as well as how to use a timing light. The focus of the workshop will be on understanding the ignition system and troubleshooting with a volt meter rather than the expensive “trial and error” method. Two helpful worksheets will be used to transfer theory of operation to practical “hands on” troubleshooting in the field. TIP SHOP for JOHN DEERE TWO-CYLINDER and NEW GENERATION TRACTORS       Dan Brotzman Everyone can use some common sense and handy tips with tackling a restoration project. Dan will bring you just that type of thing with topics such as filling in unwanted holes in sheet metal, wiring tips, plastic body filler versus lead body filler, bleeding New Generation steering valves, hydraulic coupling resealing, New Generation front pump removal, and more. There will be something for everyone. From reading his articles in Green Magazine, you know Dan is a great problem solver and offers excellent solutions. TOYS: JOHN DEERE TRACTORS & IMPLEMENTS       Bill Proft This workshop is intended for anyone interested in collecting “toys” or miniatures. Time will be spent on all aspects of collecting John Deere miniatures including scales, manufacturers, types, materials, what’s collectible and what’s not, restoration, and suggestions on what the future holds for the hobby. Bill has been writing a toy column in Green Magazine for nearly twelve years and looks forward to discussing the hobby as well as answering any questions that attendees may have. TRACTOR and SHEET METAL RESTORATION, PREP & PAINTING       Dave Nelson The first thing we see when we amble down rows of nicely-restored tractors at a show is the sheet metal and paint. Just like first impressions, the quality of the restoration is often judged by the quality of the sheet metal repair and finishing. Join this long-time two-cylinder restorer and auto body professional as he takes you through the process of restoring and refinishing John Deere hoods, grilles and other sheet metal parts, including assessment, straightening & repair, metal finishing, rust treatment, filling, sanding, priming and painting. Dave will share helpful hints, dos and don’ts, important tools, types of paint, painting equipment, and techniques. You will be able to view a hood and grill at various stages of reconditioning along with a hands-on demonstration. THE UNSTYLED JOHN DEERE MODEL B TRACTOR       Bruce Johnson This workshop will cover all the variations of the unstyled B tractors, including the factory accessories that were available. Bruce will show all the serial number breaks and how many of each distinct version of the Model B tractor were built. In addition, he’ll discuss the different wheel options and at what point certain features were added such as the temperature gauges and shutters. Both the row-crop and standard tread versions will be covered. WHAT’S NEW FROM JORDE’S DECALS       Travis Jorde The application of decals is usually the final task in the restoration process and is very important in giving the tractor a distinctive, finished appearance. Travis Jorde has researched the decals used on John Deere tractors and implements and has manufactured them under license since 1972. The workshop will include detailed demonstrations, actual hands-on experience, lots of pictures, and his subtle humor. Travis brings many years of experience to the decal phase of the hobby and is one of the early ones to see the need for accurate and quality decals. WORKING WITH RESTORERS: Fuel for Thought       Hyler Bracey Working with a restorer can be a nightmare or a dream come true. Having mixed results with seven restorers in six states, Hyler Bracey decided to see what others have learned. This session is based on Hyler’s experience and in-depth interviews with fifteen tractor collectors who have been in the hobby over ten years. The session will include very specific recommendations and document handouts that Hyler has found useful in working with restorers. DROP-IN SESSIONS There will be a number of DROP-IN SESSIONS led by our many knowledgeable and experienced “Gathering” workshop leaders and conference registrants. EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT GAUGES       Jerry Trcka Should you buy new gauges, replace the faces, or have your old gauges rebuilt? Learn the positive and negative of each option from Jerry Trcka, of EverGreen Restoration, who specializes in gauges for John Deere two-cylinder tractors. A great opportunity for one-to-one interaction in a small setting. JORDE DECALS: A Review       Travis Jorde Do you have questions about placement? Do you need some personalized instructions on how to apply the decals to your beautifully-restored John Deere tractor? Stop by to address these issues or any other questions you may have. Travis is the guy to talk to about decals, and he encourages you to join him. PAINTING AND SHEET METAL RESTORATION       Dan Pelham Join Dan at his drop-in session pertaining to sheet metal preparation and quality refinishing techniques. With over 30 years of experience in the autobody and painting business, including 15 years of Mercedes-Benz restorations, feel free to discuss any aspect of preparation and refinishing with him. Dan resides in NW Minnesota and paints at a local shop. He also takes on “special” projects at his shop as well. He will be joined by Mike Williams. TIPS FROM A JD TECHNICIAN – NEW GENERATION TRACTORS       Ron Schroder New Generation sounds fresh and young but this generation is 50 years old. Drop by and talk with Ron Schroder, formerly a technician at a large John Deere dealership where he worked over 15 years on New Generation and later John Deere tractors. Take advantage of Ron’s knowledge and experience by stopping by and asking questions in an informal setting. WHAT DO I DO IF MY TRACTOR WON'T CRANK?       Tom Donahy Imagine the scenario of having a freshly restored tractor glistening in its new paint and decals. You have just hauled it half way across the country to show it off at the “Gathering of the Green.” You hit the starter to show a spectator how smoothly the tractor runs, and NOTHING HAPPENS! You fitted those pistons and matched those transmission gears and now it won't even crank! After you recover from total embarrassment, what are you going to do? Do you buy a new battery, replace the starter, try an assortment of cables, switches and connectors, turn to prayer? This drop-in session will show you how to logically track down those unseen electrical gremlins calmly and logically with nothing more than a little common sense and a $5.00 voltmeter. Hopefully this session will free you forever from the enslavement of random parts replacement. SPECIAL IN-HOTEL ACTIVITIES FOR THE LADIES BASKET WEAVING WITH TRACEY       Tracey Welch Join professional basket maker, Tracey Welch, for a hands-on instructional class. Classes are limited to 12 students each. In this session, you will be making a basket to take home with you. Cost of the class is $25.00, and includes cost of the materials. Enrollment will be on a first-come-first-served basis, beginning at registration at the Gathering. Tracey is the owner and founder of Basketwerks. She weaves baskets, teaches basketry, and makes all her own stains from natural sources. In 1993, the wholesale branch of Basketwerks was born and is operated by her husband Jim. It is now one of the largest suppliers of basket weaving materials in the Midwest United States. Quality product, explicit service, and a wide selection is what makes the business stand out from the rest. FLOWERS AND BOWS- ARRANGEMENTS 101       Susie Shollenberger Learn the basics of professional floral design and beautiful bows on Thursday, March 18 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon in the Wisconsin Room. Pots, John Deere Tins, and wreaths will be available for you to make arrangements and wall and door decor for your own home. Join Susie Shollenberger who has been a floral designer with Michaels Arts and Crafts for over 10 years, and has also been involved in fresh florals for wedding centerpieces and bouquets with Clazzy Designs. Let her share the secrets of the trade to help you learn how to make beautiful things for yourself or gifts. The cost will range from $10.00 and up, depending on what materials are used. MAKE & TAKE WITH THE SMILEY DEERE LADIES OF MINNESOTA & IOWA Join the Smiley Deere Ladies in the Wisconsin Room from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 19 for a special crafts activity. All kinds of small crafts projects will be available and you don’t have to be skilled. Just come and enjoy the camaraderie. There will be a range of crafts and the cost will be nominal. Looking for a little gift/card you can take home? Looking for a craft idea for your club’s party? Want to do something with your hands? Like to do something that’s FUN, simple and inexpensive? Then come see the (5) Smiley Deere Ladies in the Wisconsin Room at the River Center on Friday, March 19 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. They have just the “thing” for your enjoyment and theirs too! Those 5 smiley ladies are: Beverly Wilson, Carol Olsen, Karen Richmond , Jen Peterman and Pat Peterman No advance sign-up necessary, just come by! There will be a charge for materials, with prices starting as low as 25 cents and varying up to $8 for learning to make fleece blankets.