There’s something about old iron that makes you feel young again. That was the case for Vance Lundell of Odebolt, Iowa, who bought an International 340 because of a miniature tractor toy he got for Christmas one year as a young boy.
“He fell in love with the tractor in grade school. He had the model, and he wrote a paper about it,” said farm broadcaster Max Armstrong about this week’s tractor selection.
There’s a good reason for his nostalgia. With its five-speed transmission and bulletproof four-cylinder diesel or gasoline engine that output nearly 50 hp, the International 340 made its mark on children and adults alike back in the day.
Farmers appreciated its narrow front axle that could make tight turns around row crop turnrows, and maneuver well in the barnyard for all kinds of utilitarian livestock operations. It was a do-all machine that earned its iron weight in productivity. Its torque amplifier let operators downshift while hauling hay and pulling a two-bottom plow, or even a three-bottom one for a clutch less power boost.
Made in Illinois
The 340 was produced between 1958 and 1965 at International’s facility in Rock Island, Ill. It was the next generation of farm machinery, offering updated hydraulics and independent PTO.
At the time, U.S. farm acreage was increasing to keep up with dramatic advancements in hybrid corn, chemical technology and irrigation practices that launched American farmers into a global commodity market.
The largest machinery brands raced to keep pace with ever increasing horse-powered tractors. At the lower end, the 340 was a step up from International’s 330, both in horsepower and operating capacity. Today, it’s remembered fondly by collectors for its important place in International’s enduring legacy and for its nostalgic connection that keeps the past alive in the present.
“Vance still has the toy, and these days, he has this beautiful 340. It really looks good,” Armstrong said.