LAWN MOWER TRACTOR PULLS
What is Pulling
This sport is known as the world’s most powerful motorsport, due to the
multi-engine and modified tractors that pullers build. This is a true statement about the BIG, Real Tractors and Trucks, so to be clear we are talking about small lawn tractors that started out to cut grass. Yes they can be modified and souped up, but most are just Lawn mowers with the cutting chamber removed. (or Not).
- All tractors in their respective classes pull a set weight in the sled.
- When a tractor gets to the end of the track, this is known as a “full pull”.
- When more than one tractor a “full pull”, more weight is added to the sled, and those competitors compete in a pull-off.
- The winner is the one who can pull the sled the longest length of the track.
The ‘sled’ is actually a weight transfer sled. This means that as it is pulled down the track, the weight is transferred (linked with gears to the sled’s wheels) from over the rear axles and towards the front of the sled. In front of the rear wheels, there is a “pan”. This is essentially a metal plate; and as the weight moves over this pan, the resistance builds, making it harder for the tractors to pull. The further the competitor pulls the sled, the more difficult it gets.

GARDEN TRACTOR PULLS
Our local garden tractor pulls, held August 12, & 13 operate on the same principles as described above. Our pulling tracks are between 150 and 250 feet in length, depending on the location of the pull. The sleds weigh approximately 2,000 or more pounds. The speed at which the weighted box moves up the sled…and the gearing applied, both control the difficulty of the pull. The sled is set and controlled by the sled master.
We pull about 3 classes, based on motor modifications, horse power limits, tire styles, and weight limits, among other guidelines. We even have a class for kids only! And don’t worry, we have a class where ‘anything goes’ too! To make the competition fair, all pullers must follow a set of rules to qualify their tractors for specific classes. See RULES
Pullers pay an entry fee to enter their tractor in the pull. 100% of that money is given backto the pullers, as the winner’s purse. Trophies and/or ribbons are also awarded.
But the most important part of this is that the entire family can either watch or participate! We’ve had pullers from 5 to 85 years of age. If you don’t pull, you’ll still have fun watching and cheering on your favorite puller. And by the way – the tractors are beautiful to look at, too! It’s always fun to see the different tractors and take pictures.