Running off the tractor. Dad's tractor, a 1958 Massey Ferguson 65, was a monument to his optimism. He kept it parked up the "Strips", a steep track above the farm. This was because it had no working starter motor, or battery, or in fact any electrical systems at all. It had to be "run off", and then kept running until the day's work was done. "Whatever you do, Don't stall the tractor!" was the mantra ...