There’s something oddly satisfying about getting your hands dirty with an old tractor. My trusty Ford 1720, a 1989 model, has been my faithful companion in taming the wild grass on my small property. It’s not glamorous work, but man, it’s a lot more fun than you might think.
Every time I fire up that old beast, I’m hit with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Will today be the day I accidentally create another impromptu fountain? You see, I’ve had my fair share of run-ins with hidden water lines and hose bibs. Nothing quite gets your heart racing like the sudden eruption of a PVC geyser mid-mow. But hey, at least it’s an easy fix… once you stop laughing at your own misfortune.

Maintenance is key with these old workhorses. Checking the oil, greasing all those nipples – it’s a ritual that’s become almost meditative. There’s a rhythm to it, a dance of sorts between man and machine. And let me tell you, there’s no better way to clear your head than by losing yourself in the methodical process of lubrication and inspection.
The bush hog mower attachment turns my modest Ford into a grass-munching monster. It’s oddly satisfying watching those tall weeds and overgrown patches disappear beneath the tractor’s wheels. Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. There’s always that moment of suspense when you hear an unexpected ‘clunk’. Is it a rock? A forgotten tool? Or worse, another unsuspecting water line?
I’ve learned to approach each mowing session like a tactical operation. Mental notes of water line locations, constant vigilance for anything that doesn’t look like grass, and the occasional quick prayer to the tractor gods. It’s amazing how a simple task like cutting grass can turn into a full-blown adventure.
But you know what? I wouldn’t have it any other way. There’s something deeply rewarding about maintaining this piece of machinery, about knowing every quirk and creak. It’s not just about keeping the grass short; it’s about connection – to the land, to the machine, to a simpler way of life.
So next time you see someone covered in grease, grass stains, and a giant grin, give them a nod. They’ve probably just had a great day with their tractor. And if you hear distant laughter followed by the sound of rushing water? Well, that might just be me, creating another spectacular water feature in my never-ending battle to keep the wild grasses at bay.