Tractors restoration often means fixing old parts. There are times when replacement pieces simply cannot be found, and you must restore an original casting or metal part. Cast iron repairs can be a challenge, though, and most restorers would rather hunt down a replacement casting. If the search fails, a cast iron repair might be the only option.

Iron was a common material on vintage tractors and heavy equipment. Often less expensive to produce, iron can be durable, readily machinable and reasonably strong. Not all iron is the same, however. Cast irons differ in carbon content, ductility, yield and elongation. Alloyed irons can resist wear, fatigue and heat cycling. The iron in a continually heat-cycled exhaust manifold would have much different properties than nodular iron in a gear housing.

To real more about the iron castings order Issue #29