For many decades, International Harvester (IH) was a major manufacturer of tractors, harvesting machines, and other agricultural equipment. But over time, the company went through various transformations, mergers, and acquisitions, leading many people to ask the question: Does International Harvester still make tractors? In this article, we will explore the history of IH, its product lines, and its current status in the industry.
The Rise and Fall of International Harvester
International Harvester was founded in 1902 by the merger of two companies: McCormick Harvesting Machine Company and Deering Harvester Company. For more than 70 years, IH was one of the top producers of tractors, engines, and other farm equipment, selling their products in more than 160 countries. Some of their most popular models were the Farmall, the Cub, and the Scout.
However, in the 1970s, IH began to experience financial difficulties, due to several factors such as rising labor costs, foreign competition, and a decline in the agriculture industry. In 1985, the company changed its name to Navistar International Corporation, and shifted its focus to the production of commercial trucks and buses.
International Harvester's Tractor Legacy
Despite its decline in the tractor business, International Harvester's contribution to the development of modern agricultural technology is significant. The company introduced many innovations that improved efficiency, productivity, and comfort for farmers, such as the first tractor with an enclosed cab, the first diesel-powered tractor, and the first tractor with four-wheel drive.
Furthermore, many IH tractors have become collector's items and continue to be used for a variety of farming tasks around the world. Their strong construction, simple design, and ease of maintenance have made them a favorite among vintage tractor enthusiasts.
Is International Harvester Still Making Tractors?
In short, no. After Navistar International Corporation discontinued its agricultural division in 2006, the rights to the IH brand and products were sold to various companies, including Case IH, which is now the primary manufacturer and distributor of IH tractors, harvesting equipment, and parts. However, it's important to note that these products are no longer produced under the International Harvester name, but rather under Case IH's own branding.
Conclusion
International Harvester may no longer be making tractors, but its legacy lives on in the form of the numerous inventions and innovations that it contributed to the industry. While the company's decline and eventual disappearance from the farming landscape marks the end of an era, it continues to be remembered and celebrated by farmers, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.
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