Welcome! David Brown tractors are more than just agricultural machines – they’re a piece of British engineering excellence. Whether you’re restoring a 780 or getting your 990 Selectamatic ready for the next drive: We share your passion.
In this blog, you’ll learn everything about the history, technology, and special features of these legendary tractors.
Your Partner for the Perfect Restoration A freshly painted David Brown isn’t complete until the details are right. Looking for the right stickers for the hood or need technical literature to understand the hydraulics?
We’ve got it at Eil Bulldog Versand! We carry an extensive range of high-quality sticker sets and reprints of operator’s manuals and parts lists. Browse directly in our shop to give your project the finishing touch.
The History (From VAK1 to Case)
Title: From Gears to World Fame – The David Brown History
The David Brown story begins long before the first tractor. Originally founded as a gear factory, the company entered tractor manufacturing in 1936 together with Harry Ferguson.
Milestones from Meltham:
- 1939: The VAK1 is introduced – the first “true” David Brown.
- The Cropmaster era: After the war, these models shaped the face of British agriculture.
- 1965: The introduction of the Selectamatic range (in Orchid White and Poppy Red) revolutionized operation.
- The 70s & 80s: The angular models of the 90 and 94 series brought turbo power and four-wheel drive.
Those who want to dive deeper need data. In our workshop manuals and parts lists, available at Eil Bulldog Versand, you can trace every detail of the history technically.
Technology & Special Features
Title: Selectamatic and Direct Injection – Technology That Inspires
David Brown often went its own way. While other manufacturers were still using pre-chamber injection, DB adopted direct injection early on. The result: engines that start extremely willingly (even in winter) and are economical with diesel.
The Heart: The Hydraulics The most well-known feature is the Selectamatic system. With a single dial, the driver could switch between draft control, position control, and wheel pressure boost. A brilliant system that does require maintenance.
Pro tip: Having problems with the hydraulics or electrics? Often a look at the wiring diagram or repair manual helps.
Important: Don’t work “blind”! The right specialist literature for your specific model is available at Eil Bulldog Versand. This ensures your repair is done safely and professionally.
The Advantages of a David Brown
Title: Why We Drive David Brown
Why do vintage fans still choose a tractor from Meltham today? Here are the facts:
- Value for money: Compared to other brands, David Brown gives you a lot of tractor for your money.
- Robustness: The transmissions and axles were often oversized (David Brown also built gearboxes for tanks and warships, after all!).
- The looks: The white/red color combination (Selectamatic) or the classic Hunting Pink is an eye-catcher at every meet.
The Perfect Look For your tractor to truly shine at the meet, one thing must not be missing: the correct labeling. Nothing disrupts the image of a restored tractor more than wrong or crooked lettering.
Our solution: At Eil Bulldog Versand, you’ll get exact reproductions of the original stickers and decals. UV-resistant and precisely fitting for hood and fenders.
