Cletrac 20K needs refurbishing

[jwarmack]

I have Cletrac 20K that hasn't been started in over 10 years.  It has been kept in a barn somewhat protected from the elements but probably has the gas and oil still in it when it was last run.   I was wondering how one goes about getting it restored to good working order?  The tractor is in a remote rural location (cabin property), what kind of person should I be looking for help with such a project?  Any guidance is appreciated.  Does it need to be transported somewhere and if so how would you do it?  I also wonder if I could get it started myself?

[Blake Malkamaki]

First of all.... what part of the world are you in?

Blake

[John D]

Many of the folks on this forum would be willing to help you either in person or on the forum - let us know your [machine's] location.

To attempt to get it running, here are some steps you could take:
1. Pull the sparkplugs and squirt some lightweight oil or diesel fuel into the cylinders
2. With the spark plugs out, try to crank the engine - manually - or with the starter; if it turns easily, continue.  If not, there are other penetrants to put into the cylinders, put the sparkplugs back in and let it sit for a few weeks.  If it still won't turn over, try again.  If still not, there's no need to do the following steps.
3. Drain the gas tank and flush with Acetone to clean out the old gas.
4. Clean the carburetor - any old gas has turned to varnish.  Soaking it in Acetone works great.
5. Drain and change the oil - probably a good idea to use non-detergent oil, so you don't stir up any sediment
6. Check for spark; put the gearshift into neutral, set the throttle at a low speed.
7. Spray ether (starting fluid) into the air intake and attempt to start.

Generally, these tractors can be pulled - they roll quite easily.  A roll-off tow-truck or flatbed trailer would be required to transport if that is necessary.

Here's a couple of photos from Spary Duroe's collection - this one's a 1936 Model 20-C