Clarendon Classic Machinery Rally: Classic Restos - Series 53

Fletch is in Clarendon, NSW, for the Classic Rally organised by the Sydney Antique Machinery Club Inc. The event has gathered a fantastic collection of tractors, trucks and other machinery that is sure to delight anyone interested in piston-powered technology. Fletch provides a glimpse of what on offer.

First up is a collection of stationary engines that are all in working order. The collection includes an Australian-built 3hp open crank model from 1922 that was used to power corn mills, water pumps and shearing shed machinery, and a 1927 3.5hp Hercules from the US, which is set up to create a vacuum pump for milking sheds.

Next is a massive 1972 Foden 2-stroke diesel engine extracted from a New Zealand Navy Tugboat. This engine has never been used and is virtually brand new, providing an impressive sound.

Then there’s something completely different: Jim's custom-built truck, which has two 8V '71 GM engines from monstrous mine trucks paired together and generating 635hp.

The event showcases machinery of all shapes and sizes. Victa is a well-known lawnmower brand in Australia, and Colin, an avid collector, has over 70 Victa mowers in his collection. He proudly displays a vast collection of models at this year's show, including an early 1957 Victor that belonged to his grandfather and the latest 70th-anniversary model.

Tractors are also a highlight of the event, and collector Ben has an impressive restored/modified collection that includes a 1954 David Brown 30C Model, which he purchased for just $300. After discovering the engine was seized, he replaced it with a 350 Chev and twin turbo. While it looks like the original with a few modifications to fit the engine and twin-turbo, it is beautifully presented. Ben has similarly restored and modified two others, a 1968 Howard 2000, which now boasts a 1200cc modified motorbike engine and a 350 holy carburettor, and a smaller 1966 Howard 2000 that began with a 12hp Briggs and Stratton engine and now has a CH Mack Turbo and hand-built exhaust manifold.

Finally, the event wouldn't be complete without a Tractor Pull, which showcases the brute power of tractors and attracts both young and old.