After over 20 years of Expos, for the upcoming 175th Anniversary Celebration of John Deere in
2012, the Two-Cylinder Club has been granted the honor of being able to offer what is arguably the
most beautiful Two-Cylinder Tractor of all time as the official Expo XXII Toy.
The efforts to provide a toy “AO” Streamlined Tractor have been ongoing for several years, but each
time was thwarted by the reality of excessive tooling costs. You see, tooling for a specific tractor
becomes more of a possibility when a significant portion of that tooling can later be adapted to additional
similar models. For example, “620” Hi-Crop tooling could be used in large part to make other versions
of the “620”. That kind of “mileage” spreads the very expensive tooling over more toys, thereby helping
to keep unit cost reasonable.
Ertl had not given up on making the “AOS” a reality, and their tooling chief has been nibbling away at
the project for a long time to make it happen. As 2012 approached, they simply made the commitment
to go ahead. We are grateful for their dedication, and toy collectors everywhere will be when they see the
finished project. We saw the first sample off the tooling in late September, and it was nothing short of
spectacular. Further, they are committed to holding the line on costs. The toy will be available through
Two-Cylinder for just $69.95! As is usual with Expo Show Toys, delivery is expected in late spring of
2012. We ran out of the 2011 “730” Diesel Hi-Crop Show Toy three weeks after Expo XXI, and are still
getting calls from people who missed their chance to own one. The same situation, possibly even a
quicker sellout, is predicted for the “AOS”. That’s why we’re announcing it now, in advance for members
who want to secure their order early. Here are some details about the toy:
It will be a 1937 as they were originally introduced, including the early style front axle, round-spoke
front wheels, flat-spoke steering wheel, and the optional full orchard fenders. Note that 2012 will be the
75th Anniversary of the “AO” Streamlined.
The photos shown here and on the cover are of a 1937 “AO” Streamlined. A close inspection of the
straight-on photos will reveal front wheels that were fitted with weights; the toy will not have wheel
weights. Note the hinges in the orchard sheet metal that allowed the engine-area side covers to be swung
open for access. Also notice the strengthening ribs and the attaching hardware. The appearance of all of
these details are repeated in the toy.
1937 JOHN DEERE MODEL “AO” STREAMLINED TOY TRACTOR
$69.95 each, plus $12.00 shipping (each) • Sealed Case of Six (6): $419.70, plus $25.00 shipping
Please refer to the attached form in this magazine for additional ordering information. |
