"Gathering of the Green"

 

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS 2008 EVENT HAS ALREADY TAKEN PLACE. ALL OF THIS INFORMATION IS STILL HERE SO THAT YOU CAN SEE WHAT THE WORKSHOPS WERE AND WHO PRESENTED THEM. “Gathering of the Green” – 2008 Workshop Descriptions       Hi, it’s Meli again and I’m delighted to provide you with a short description of each workshop, drop-in session and special in-hotel activity (designed for the ladies) during the 2008 “Gathering of the Green” conference. The workshop descriptions are listed alphabetically by title. Note that the workshop information is subject to change.       The following workshop topics are currently scheduled for the 2008 “Gathering of the Green:” Please check the WORKSHOP SCHEDULE page for dates and times.

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 Buying, Rebuilding & Farming with John Deere Model 830 Tractors – Don Dufner       The mighty John Deere 830 was the last and largest of the two-cylinder tractors manufactured. Don Dufner collects and still farms in Buxton, North Dakota with six of these powerful machines as well as other two-cylinder tractors, so you will enjoy this workshop as he discusses the purchase and rebuilding as well as use of these impressive tractors. Don will address what to look for when buying an “830,” strong and weak points to be aware of, diagnosing problems and helpful tips. In addition, JD enthusiasts who own or are interested in 80s and 820s will want to put this workshop one on their list to attend. Collecting John Deere Memorabilia – Greg Stephen       So you live, breathe and eat John Deere you say? You wear green socks faithfully every day and you even dream in shades of green? Do you gather up everything you happen across that bears the least resemblance to John Deere? Then my friend, you are a John Deere collector! If you would like to have your horizons expanded in the world of John Deere collecting then this workshop is for you. Traditional collecting encompasses many different areas and most collectors have a semi-focused approach to putting their collection together. This workshop will share with you one man’s unique methodology and his “shotgun” approach to collecting anything John Deere. Drawing on his thirty years as a John Deere dealer and collector, Greg Stephen will share with you some of the non-traditional areas of collecting he has been drawn into and explain why he feels it is important to adopt an “eyes open” attitude while collecting today. You will come away with a new appreciation of how varied a John Deere collection can be and a few new ideas on what and how to collect. Deere & Dogs (Lanz Bulldogs & Alldogs) – Neil West       Tractor collecting and preservation of antique agricultural equipment is not just a United States hobby…there are tractor collectors worldwide. This presentation will discuss some of the similarities and differences between the US and Europe, concentrating on Lanz collectors in Germany. It will compare the history of John Deere and the Lanz companies as well as equipment collection and preservation. Neil is an expert on Lanz tractors as well as an avid collector so be sure to join him for a most interesting workshop. Electrical Conversions: 6 to 12 Volt, Electronic Ignition & Alternators – John “T” Nordhoff       Join John “T,” a longtime Gathering participant and workshop leader, for this important electrical system session in which he will describe the theory and necessary electrical wiring modifications for those who wish to upgrade from 6 to 12 volts, install an electronic ignition, or an alternator charging system. Many JD restorers are interested in converting their tractors from a 6 to 12 volt system; here’s an opportunity to learn how to do it correctly. Experiences of Bringing John Deere Tractors to Market: From Concept to Customer – Johnny Dickinson       Johnny Dickinson spent 33 years with John Deere in various positions related to sales and marketing including Worldwide Marketing Manager for tractors at Waterloo, so he brings a vast array of experiences to this session. His workshop will focus on how marketing of tractors can drive product planning and product development by acquiring input from users – especially important in foreign markets. Different markets and their need for different specifications in tractor design and manufacture as well as different sales and service requirements will be discussed. A presentation about the history of how various tractor programs were developed as well as how some product proposals never got to market is included. If you are interested in how tractors are designed and developed, you will especially enjoy this workshop. G.P. Series: Total Restoration Tips – Cork Groth       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 bears; getting the slop out of the clutch linkage; brake relining; proper tappet adjust; and the list goes on. Please bring your G.P. questions and Cork will do his best to answer them. John Deere 800 Series Hitches – Dean Van Peursem       Come and expand your range of knowledge as Dean Van Peursem takes you through an updated history of semi-integral, integral, Yakima and three point hitches Deere & Company sold for use on their row crop tractors. Included will be some of the internal struggles JD engineering went through to avoid violating the Harry Ferguson System patent. As collectors and restorers, you probably know a lot about two-cylinder tractors, but are you familiar with the 17 different Mast Bracket options that allow the tractors to use implements of all types? 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. After his presentation, you will have increased knowledge of each version and we suspect you’ll want at least one for your tractor. 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 Dubuque-built Tractors: The Rusty Acres Approach – Dan Peterman       Dubuque-built tractors are becoming more well-liked every year and Dan Peterman restores a good number of these tractors in his business so we have asked him to lead this workshop. Dan will cover, from beginning to end, the restoration of the Little Giants, or so-called, Dubuque-built tractors. He will also address painting/fixing/repairing the M, 40, 420, 430, 320 and 330 series tractors. There is a lot to talk about, but don’t forget that these tractors are simple to work on and one shouldn’t hesitate to consider one. This type of John Deere is becoming very popular with the smaller collector who has limited space. John Deere Memorabilia the First Century: A Look at Identifying & Preserving Historically Important Artifacts from the 19th Century – Tom McMurren       From the humble beginnings as a blacksmith in Northern Illinois to the proliferation of an implement manufacturing giant, this workshop will review various artifacts and memorabilia from the 1840s to the early 1900s, which uncover the history of John Deere’s evolution through the first 100 years…a history that is well-illustrated with many images and examples of unusual and unexpected items found today in private collections. This session will provide a most interesting historical perspective of Deere & Company. John Deere Model G: From Front to Back – John Bennehoff       Join this well-know “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 to1960, part of the two-cylinder era. He will take you on a historic trip through the John Deere tractor plow line and will discuss drawn plows, integral plows, and two-way plows. In addition, Dave will talk briefly about the John Deere 800, 800A and 801 integral hitches and the ABC 1000, ABG 2000 and the No. 2100 integral hitches. Plow set-up and adjustments will be described in detail. 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. 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 & Garden Tractor Collecting: A Fast-growing Hobby – Brandon Pfeiffer       Collecting lawn and garden tractors is undoubtedly the fastest growing agricultural-related hobby in the country. This session will cover the trends in collecting not only lawn and garden tractors but also the attachments. Identifying the rare and unusual items that make certain machines unique and more desirable will be discussed. Suggestions for restorations will be touched on, along with what the future will most likely be for this amazing hobby. The session will be presented with PowerPoint to provide for a better understanding of important topics in lawn and garden tractor collecting. Time will be allotted at the end of the presentation for questions and answers. Lessons Learned & How to Convert a Farmall F-20 (What??) to a V-8 – Jim Wise       Jim’s workshop will center on the story of his experiences with the Farmall F-20 V8 conversion, “lessons learned,” and the “how to” of completing a project of this type. Jim does quickly point out that this is his only Farmall and that there have to be other John Deere collectors, like himself, with orphan brands of tractors back in the corners of their machine sheds. Anyway, come and hear the experiences this avid John Deere collector had when he jumped the fence to build this tractor he didn’t know much about. Magnetos: History Application and Servicing – Duane Larson       John Deere tractors used magnetos built by various companies, including “Splitdorf, Edison-Splitdorf, Fairbanks Morse, and WICO. This seminar will focus on the history, application, and servicing of these magnetos, including the Splitdorf Dixie, Aero, and 246C and T models, Edison Splitdorf CD and RM models, Fairbanks Morse RV series magnetos, and the WICO AP, C and XH series. Setting of both starting and running timing will be described, and the importance of setting the “edge gap” will be addressed. Testing and diagnosis methods will be illustrated, and common servicing problems will be identified and solutions provided. Handouts will be available identifying the correct magneto by model and serial number. A well-tuned magneto is essential for easy starting and smooth running, and this seminar will provide useful information for all two-cylinder collectors and restorers. 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. Old and Unusual Clutches (rebuilding & repair) – 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. Preserving the Past in Miniature (toys) – Mark Wikner       Toys or models? Whatever you call them, miniatures are a fun, compact way of preserving the past. But there has been a proliferation of new toys on the market in recent years. Many toy collectors are finding their basement overflowing with toys. This workshop will take a look at the Farm Toy Collecting hobby with an emphasis on how you might put some boundaries on your collection to make it more interesting. Mark will also cover some lesser-known categories like custom-built, foreign and other unusual toys. This will be a visually-oriented workshop but Mark will have a few toys on display. Questions of any type will be welcomed. Preserving the Past: Collecting John Deere Belt Buckles – Mark Wikner       You probably have a few John Deere belt buckles tucked away in a drawer. Have you wondered if they are “official,” valuable or collectable? Or how you could display them? Or learn more about them? These questions and more will be answered in this presentation. Discussions will include history, types of buckle materials, their use in Deere advertising, descriptions and examples of buckle categories, and a few thoughts on where the hobby is going. Although Mark can’t bring his whole collection, he will have representative samples of various buckle categories for participants to view. He has photographed his entire collection and has it on a computer. Participants can pick a buckle category they are interested in, and he will review as many categories as time permits. Questions of any type will be welcomed and encouraged. Restoration For Beginners – Don Ward       If you are starting to restore your first tractor, just bought one, or are thinking about buying one of the beautiful green and yellow machines, this is the workshop for you. Don Ward, a widely known and respected expert, will cover ways to acquire a tractor. He will include various fuel types and things to look for when buying a tractor. Don will discuss the different degrees of restoration, how to get service and parts manuals, and all of the dealer resources. He will cover the tools and supplies that the beginning restorer will need to tackle this project and will share his personal experiences and some valuable tips that will save you time and money. This workshop will cover everything from the radiator cap to the drawbar hole. Don encourages group discussion, so bring lots of questions. Restoration of the Model L Series – John Hoffman       John Hoffman has several magnificently restored tractors in the "L" series so he comes to this workshop with much expertise. Discussion will start with the frame-up restoration of a Model 62 and then moving through the same thorough process on an Unstyled L, a Styled L and an LI. He will cover procedures involving parts, mechanics and painting. Questions throughout the presentation are encouraged. Restoring John Deere New Generation Tractors – Dan Brotzman       Dan will cover what to look for when purchasing a New Generation tractor to restore such as side panels, correct fenders, after-market front ends, after-market gauges, power steering function, complete hitch parts, PTO brake, PTO shield, clutch slipping, and after-market cabs. In addition, he will describe the process of stripping a New Generation tractor, a discussion of what to do with after-market cabs, what is needed to convert from a cab to open station again, decal availability for the “10” and “20” series as well as the “30” and “40” series on up. Painting sequence, detailing and final assembly will follow. This will be the most comprehensive session we have offered on the increasingly popular New Generation tractors. Selling Yellow: Deere & Company’s Move Into Industrial Equipment – Ray Wood       Do you remember when we were young, aggressive, nontraditional, enjoyed digging holes and moving dirt more than planting and harvesting … and at times rejected, but sensed a unique opportunity to participate in a new business venture. Ray Wood sensed this, and as a result, was on the “ground floor” of Deere’s move into the industrial side of the tractor business. Ray remembered that he and many of his Deere colleagues requested to be transferred to the small, fledgling industrial division in St. Louis because they were certain Chairman Bill Hewitt’s vision to diversify Deere was their future. Ray was a longtime industrial representative for Deere and one of their industrial leaders. For a fascinating and inside look at the early years of Deere & Company’s entry into the industrial field with machines such as the 440 crawler dozer, the 440 I wheel loader, backhoes and the 840 with 7E2 Hancock elevating scraper, be sure to make time to attend this most interesting workshop. 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 – The Ying & Dang of It – Brian Holst & Shane Hatch       Mr. Dang Itt 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! 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. TCX, TSX and One- & Two-barrel DLTX Series Carburetors – Duane Larson       John Deere tractors primarily used carburetors designed and built by Marvel Schebler from the Spoker D through the end of the two-cylinder era. The primary exception was the GP series which also used Ensign-built carburetors. This seminar will focus on the history, application, and servicing of Marvel Schebler carburetors. Models covered will include the TCX, TSX, and one- and two-barrel DLTX series carburetors. Their operation, maintenance, repair, and problem-solving methods will be addressed, and specialized information will be provided for many of the models. A well-tuned carburetor is essential to a smooth-running tractor, and this seminar will provide information useful to all two-cylinder collectors and restorers. Don’t miss this one! The 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. The Auction Method of Marketing – 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. 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. The Spoker D: Preserving the Past, Providing Value for the Future – 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. The Waterloo Boy – 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. 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 welding holes and cracks in sheet metal; disassembling, cleaning and reassembling a Marvel Schebler carburetor; detailing your tractor; repairing a muffler hole cut-out that’s too large for a patch; disassembling, cleaning, painting and reassembling a red-white combination tail light; using Vasoline when painting for detail; removing a New Generation cab; changing a fan belt on a New Generation tractor; correct order for painting various colors; removing a rear tractor tire from the rim; taking pictures of your restoration process, etc., etc., etc. 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. 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. Unstyled B – 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. Yesteryear Deere Dealer Review – Don Angstadt       This most interesting session will focus on the long history of John Deere dealerships in North America. Don Angstad, a longtime John Deere dealer, will share his research on the development of dealerships from the very beginning when hardware stores also sold tractors up through today where many stores are owned by the same company or individual. He will have some fascinating chronicles of Deere dealerships and the people who operated them. Come with your questions and Don will have an answer. A game of tractor trivia is on the agenda …. and you may win a prize. Please check the WORKSHOP SCHEDULE page for dates and times. SPECIAL ACTIVITY Workshop On The Road To Implements Of The Past – 1930s Agricultural Museum Don McKinley & Marvin Huber       How about this for an activity during the “Gathering?” …a workshop on the coach bus as you travel from the Holiday Inn to Quincy, IL to tour Don McKinley and Marvin Huber’s exceptional 1930s Agricultural Museum. Upon arrival, Don and Marvin will personally give a guided tour of their museum. During the bus ride, they will discuss the “Fine Points of Implement Restoration” including why one should collect implements, how to find them, goals of restoration, disassembling, preparation for painting, priming and painting, reassembling and much more. The museum is located in a 5760 sq. ft. building which house the contents of a 1930s era farm house and some forty-two classic John Deere implements of the 1930s. Many of the items you will see were found on an 80 to 120 acre farm in the Midwest. A huge display of horse bits and horse equipment is also available for viewing. This unique “workshop on the road” and museum visit will give you a glimpse of one decade in the evolution of agriculture and John Deere agricultural equipment in Middle America. This workshop/tour includes a sit-down catered lunch in the museum. The idea of this workshop on the road resulted from the good attendance at implement workshops led by Don and Marvin at previous conferences; hence came the thought to expand the parameters and include an actual visit to their museum. This will be a “thumbs up” experience.       The coach bus will depart the Holiday Inn at 7:30 a.m. and will return to the hotel at approximately 4:30 p.m. The cost including lunch and transportation is $29. Please preregister on the “Gathering” Registration Form. DROP-IN SESSIONS 24 Volt Ignition System: Starting, Charging & Lighting – Tom Donahy       Are you baffled by the 24 volt starting, charging and lighting system used on John Deere diesel tractors? This drop-in session will attempt to take the mystery and fear out of working with this system. Tom will show the great similarity between this arrangement and the more familiar, conventional systems. Differences 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 drop-in. Electrical & Mechanical Roundtable - Q & A – John “T” Nordhoff & Don Ward       Join this great team, John “T” and Don Ward, as they entertain questions about both electrical and mechanical problems related to John Deere tractors. Seldom is so much expertise packaged together in one session. Drop by and take it all in! 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. General Restoration & Repair – Don Ward & Mike Williams       In this drop-in, two of the best in the hobby, Don Ward and Mike Williams, team up to provide help with almost any problem you can present. Mike operates a machining business for restoring, rebuilding and remanufacturing parts and subassemblies; he can address anything John Deere as can Don Ward. Don is a well-known expert who knows John Deere two-cylinder tractors inside and out. They welcome any questions on diagnosis, repair and restoration. If want to laugh and learn, drop by and have your questions answered. Jorde Decals: A Review       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. Make & Take with the Smiley Deere Ladies of Minnesota & Iowa       See Special In-Hotel Activites below. Flowers & Bows – Arrangements 101 – Susie Shollenberger      See Special In-Hotel Activities below. Tips from a JD Technician – New Generation Tractors – Ron Schroder       New Generation sounds fresh and young but this generation is over 45 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. Tractor Sheet Metal Restoration, Prep & Painting – Dave Nelson       Dave Nelson will lead a regular workshop on the preparation and painting of tractors in addition to this drop-in session. The topic is always very popular and we suspect that the time allotted in the regular workshop will not permit Dave to answer every question. To that end, Dave will host a drop-in session so more questions can be addressed, including those items that pertain to your specific problem or question. Dave is a highly-skilled auto body craftsman who operates his own business, Agri-Crafts, in New Haven, MO. Don’t miss this drop-in session. Wheels of All Types – Duane Larson       This drop-in session will focus on wheel information collected since the 2006 “Gathering of the Green.” After-market wheels, wheel dating information, correct front wheel hubs, and French & Hecht wheel numbers will be covered. In addition, a discussion will be held to determine the best way to make the wheel information available to collectors and restorers. Questions and discussion are encouraged by participants. SPECIAL IN-HOTEL ACTIVITIES FOR THE LADIES Make & Take with the Smiley Deere Ladies of Minnesota & Iowa       Join the Smiley Deere Ladies in the Blackhawk Room from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, March 14 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 Hospitality room (Blackhawk) at the Holiday Inn on Friday, March 14 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and again from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. They have just the “thing” for your enjoyment and theirs too! Those 5 smiley ladies are: Ann Epple, Carol Olsen, Beverly Wilson, Jen Peterman and Pat Peterman No advance sign-up necessary, just come by! There will be a charge for materials (from as low as 15 cents to $8 for learning to make fleece blankets and varying prices in between). Flowers & Bows – Arrangements 101 – Susie Shollenberger       Learn the basics of professional floral design and beautiful bows on Thursday, March 13 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. 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.

Please check the WORKSHOP SCHEDULE page for dates and times.