1979 ROADLESS PLOUGHMASTER 78

1979 Roadless Ploughmaster 78

1979 Roadless Ploughmaster 78, Side Drive, Low Production Run. Duncan Super Q Cab, Wide Axle, Front Axle Reconditioned. Rare Model, No Sandwich Box

 

John Bownes on YouTube

Click here to view other Classics

Vintage & classic tractors

This 1979 Roadless Ploughmaster 78 is for sale at John Bownes Ltd. John Bownes Ltd is a highly regarded specialist in the sale of classic and vintage tractors. Serving both agricultural professionals and collectors. Located in the Winsford Cheshire UK, we have built a reputation for offering a wide selection of meticulously restored or well-preserved tractors that span several decades of farming history. Our inventory can include tractors from iconic manufacturers like Roadless, Massey Ferguson, Ferguson, David Brown, International Harvester. Ford, and others that played pivotal roles in transforming agriculture.

The tractors available at John Bownes Ltd typically range from pre-World War II models to those from the 1970s and 1980s. With a focus on models that hold strong appeal to both functional farmers and enthusiasts. Some of the most sought-after machines include the Massey Ferguson 35, the Ferguson TE20, and the David Brown 990, all of which are staples in the world of classic tractors. These models are popular not just for their historic value but also for their mechanical simplicity and reliability. Making them ideal for those who want to use them for practical farm work.

John Bownes Quality

What sets John Bownes Ltd apart is their commitment to quality. Every tractor they sell is carefully sourced and with some restored to a high standard. This ensures that even older models remain functional and reliable for practical use, whether it’s for light farm tasks, restoration projects, or displaying at vintage machinery shows. Their in-house restoration service offers a detailed overhaul, including engine rebuilds, painting, and chassis repairs, ensuring that each tractor performs as well as it looks.

Aside from individual tractor sales, John Bownes Ltd also offers a range of related services, including parts and accessories for classic tractors. Many of their customers seek rare components to complete restoration projects or maintain their vintage tractors in working order. The company is known for its extensive knowledge of older tractor models and their parts, providing valuable expertise to buyers who need assistance with sourcing the right pieces for repairs.

John Bownes Ltd has developed a loyal following due to its reputation for offering high-quality tractors and a customer-centric approach. Whether you’re a collector looking to add to your stable or a farmer seeking a reliable classic tractor. John Bownes Ltd provides an excellent selection of vintage machinery to meet a variety of needs. For up-to-date information on available models please call.

Roadless Tractors were a British innovation in agricultural machinery, particularly known for their four-wheel-drive (4WD) conversions of standard farm tractors. These machines were designed to provide better traction, especially in muddy or challenging conditions where traditional two-wheel-drive tractors struggled.

---

🛠️ Company Overview: Roadless Traction Ltd

• Founded: Early 1900s (officially in 1919)

• Founder: Frank W. F. Goold

• Based in: Hounslow, Middlesex, UK

• Primary Focus: 4WD conversions of major tractor brands, notably Ford, and also forestry and crawler tractors.

---

🚜 Notable Contributions & Models

1. Tracked (Crawler) Tractors

• In the 1920s–1930s, Roadless produced tracked tractors—very similar to tanks in principle—for use on soft ground, such as peat bogs and forestry sites.

• These machines used steel tracks for low ground pressure and high traction.

2. Four-Wheel-Drive Conversions

• Roadless is most famous for 4WD conversions of Ford tractors, particularly during the 1950s to 1980s.

• Common base models included:

  • Fordson Major

  • Ford 5000 / 7000 / 7610

  • Later Ford TW series

Examples:

• Roadless 65 – Based on the Fordson Super Major.

• Roadless 75 – Based on the Ford 5000.

• Roadless 120 / 130 – Based on the larger Ford models like the TW-25.

• They often carried names reflecting horsepower or series numbers.

---

🌲 Forestry Use

Roadless tractors were especially popular in forestry applications due to:

• High ground clearance

• Strong traction in soft, uneven terrain

• Robust build suitable for winching and hauling timber

---

🏁 Design Characteristics

• Heavy-duty front axle and drivetrain to power the front wheels

• Unique bonnet and chassis modifications to accommodate 4WD systems

• Often painted in blue and white livery

• Known for their rugged reliability and higher price point compared to standard models

---

🏚️ Decline and Legacy

• As main tractor manufacturers began producing their own 4WD models, Roadless’ niche shrank.

• Ceased operation in the 1980s.

• Today, Roadless tractors are collector’s items, particularly prized at vintage machinery shows.

---

🔧 Fun Fact:

Roadless also made a few military and industrial vehicles, including armored tractors and vehicles designed for Arctic and desert conditions.