Various Wheeled Wonders

Various Wheeled Wonders TRACTORS Miscellaneous 31-1-5 Long-time FARM SHOW reader Vernon Pearson, La Jolla, Calif., recently sent some photos of various "wheeled wonders" he thought might be of interest to other readers. 8-Wheeled Touring Car û The big rig was built in 1916 by an Indiana manufacturer for experimental purposes û and probably publicity purposes as well. The extra wheels smoothed out the ride greatly, according to reports of the day, and tire wear was claimed to be reduced due to distribution of weight over the 8 tires. Wind-Powered Car û French army officers in the African desert made use of this prop-powered car with a 6-bladed propeller on back. Under the right circumstances, it would push the car at speeds of up to 50 mph. A clutch switched the transmission from engine drive to prop drive, as needed. Circular Shock Absorbers û This 1911 Velie auto from the Velie Motor Vehicle Company of Moline, Ill. (see story on page 24 of this issue) had circular coil springs installed within the wheels. In the 1960's, the Bendix Corporation produced an experimental vehicle for moon landings with similarly-placed springs. "Rolling Hoop" Tractor û A farm tractor that looked and worked like a squirrel cage, this "rolling hoop" tractor was invented by a Connecticut Farmer in the early 1900's. The main wheel was 5 ft., 6 in. tall with a tread width of 30 in. It was propelled by a 15 hp. gas engine inside the wheel fitted with four small drive wheels. It looked like a little car trying to climb the inside surface of the wheel.

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