First, I never said these advances in cheap production were destroying anything, I just suggested that we consumers have lowered our standards from something that works the field to something that looks good in the garage next to the suburban.
Your comment suggesting plastic can be repaired as good as metal depending upon the plastic, well what kind of a rebuttal is that? "Depending upon the plastic?" That's like defending sharks saying you won't be eatern whole, depending on the shark. He may just take a leg or arm. I still ain't swimming brother!
A lot of folks can weld as it is pretty much a requirement on the farm (or at least have a neighbor within tractor driving distance that can) but plastics repair is a little more dicey. Are you seriously contending the regular joe has the knowledge, equipment, and confidence inplastic to perform repairs as easily as welding metal? This is just not believable.
Regarding electronics, I have first hand personal examples of electronic failure in a new tractor......you defend electronics in general, but what specific experience are you speaking from? On my new (150 hour 04 model) the dealer had to replace ALL the relays. (relays are sealed and supposed to be good for life!) and my PTO switch basically deteriorated in the first few months. (I have a seperate post on 5105 maintenance notes in the JD forum with a fairly detailed record of my issues, as well as things I am happy about.)
As for your point about us (or me) wanting "older stuff" Sure I like vintage tractors, but I purchased a new one. I want new stuff made to last like old stuff. And for the topic twisters, no, 'm not saying I want to go back to a life without power steering either, just saying I want some modern comforts like that as well as quality manufacturing. You guys act like in order to get a more comfortable suspension seat you are willing to trade off to spending full price for a throwaway product. I just don't get that. Even after the manufacturing apologists explain why my 40 dollar grill screen now costs over 200 because they won't sell you one without the entire front light assembly, I still ain't buying it.
</font><font color="blueclass=small">( Well, from my recollection, (which is getting worse in the old age) the topic was that Electronics and Plastics were going to destroy the tractor world. My remark about the plastic, seem to be on subject. The creator of this post (andrewj) stated that metal can be repaired and be as strong as before and that plastic could not. I just pointed out that it truly depends on the type of plastic.
Also, as so aptly stated by cowboydoc, the electronics onboard a tractor is not as complex as the computer example that is being used. Computers are a different world. No one wants to revive the old technology. They want more power, more speed and better graphics to play more realistic games, or produce better spreadsheets faster.
Just for the record, I own a fully functional Color Computer running OS/9, along with a fully functional first production Compaq Portable (not so portable). (Not that they are used for much other than as a collection)
IMHO, If the buying public wants to repair or replace, in large enough quantities, the manufacturing world will answer the call. As a bad example probably, they make all sorts of fiberglass and kevlar replacement panels for the mid 50's cars. This is done mostly to save weight and of course it is cheaper to produce.
In conclusion, it will all depend on the buying public and how bad they want to revive the older stuff. If there is a market, you can bet your bottom dollar that the manufacturing industry will not leave it untapped.
Wow! My longest post yet. I am developing such bad habits! LOL
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