The original Corgi Fordson Major. This one has steering via a solid front axle which pivots in the middle rather than the parallel wheels on the next version. Another difference is that the headlights are attached to the sides of the radiator, later models have them integrated into the grille. In addition the lift arms and trailer hitch are different. In fact the No.55 and No.60 models are completely different castings. and are modelled on different models of the real tractor.

This three-point linkage is truer to the real life tractors of the time than the later cantilever arrangement on the blue and silver plough. The trailer hitch though is a tin hook, like on the Land Rover and the ERF lorry. There is no attempt to provide a pick-up hitch. A pick-up hitch has the trailer hook attached to the lift arm mechanism so that the trailer is picked up and hitched to the tractor using hydraulics, the driver not having to leave his seat. Later models of the Corgi Fordson Major and early Ford 5000s have a working pick-up hitch. Later Ford 5000s have a simplified arrangement designed to look like one without the functionality.

Corgi are to be congratulated for trying so hard to replicate a three point linkage, but one can understand why they later opted a simpler arrangement. It is hard to mount and remove the plough and I'm always afraid of breaking it.

The No.55 Fordson Power Major was released in May 1961, at the same time as the plough to go with it. Early models had metal wheels painted orange, these were quickly replaced with orange plastic wheels. The metal wheels version is valued significantly higher than the plastic wheels version.

This model is worn but in good physical condition. It would be improved by replacing the chimney and maybe the decals. It is an original with metal wheels and I have no plans to do anything to the paint.