Benz Sendling Motor Tractor Type S8

Engine No 32763. The world's first commercially produced full fuel injection compression ignition (diesel) tractor. Made in Berlin Germany 1925 approximately 30-34 hp at 800 rpm. Paper ignition start. Price ex store in 1926 was 725 pounds (1450) - a lot of money. To make starting easier on cold mornings a kerosine tank was fitted by E Schrapel and Son Ltd Tanunda SA who were the importers. The original owners of the tractor were Reichelts of Laura/Caltowie SA. During the Depression the heads were removed to prevent the tractor being used as the owner could not make payments for it. Many years later it was sold at a clearing sale and was obtained by a scrap dealer who broke up and sold the engine. For restoration an engine was obtained in Adelaide SA and another in NSW from which a complete unit was assembled. The air cleaner and exhaust with came from Brinkworth SA. One difficulty years ago was the starting of a diesel on cold mornings. There are quite a few reports of farmers who left the tractor idling all night claiming that the little bit of fuel used more than compensated for not having to try and restart it on a frosty morning. Submitted by Brad From Australia