Plum Crazy: Four Decades of Power

In the realm of Australian tractor pulling, Plum Crazy stands not only as a testament to power but also as a living chronicle of dedication and evolution. Built in 1981 and completed in March 1982 by Robin Gericke and Andrew McWaters, with invaluable assistance from Tom McWaters and Allan Kranze, Plum Crazy has etched its name in the history of the sport.

Originally equipped with two big block 454 Chevrolets and an International WD9 rear end, Plum Crazy took the pulling scene by storm. However, it was at the end of the 1982 season, when Tom McWaters took ownership, that the tractor underwent a revolutionary transformation. Stripped down to its core, Plum Crazy received its iconic third engine, marking a pioneering moment as the second tractor in Australia to boast such a configuration.

As Plum Crazy continued to compete, it became a beloved fixture for both spectators and fellow pullers. Remarkably, it retained its original name and chassis—a rarity in a sport marked by constant evolution. In September 1993, Tom passed the reins to Geoff Clifford, who piloted the powerhouse for an additional seven years before a temporary retirement in 2000.

A serendipitous encounter at the Quambatook Tractor Pull in 2004 sparked the next chapter for Plum Crazy. Inspired by Joe Cottom from The Riverina Screamer, Harry and Doug Williams of Waaia, Victoria, embarked on a road trip to meet Geoff and explore the possibility of bringing Plum Crazy home. In October 2004, the deal was sealed, and Joe Cottom contributed by adding the roll cage just in time for Harry and Doug's inaugural pull at Tooradin in 2005.

The offseason became a period of rejuvenation for Plum Crazy in 2005, with a meticulous process that included a full strip-down, sandblasting, engine rebuild, and the application of fresh stickers. The grand return unfolded at the November Quambatook event, showcasing Plum Crazy's new paint, engines, and cage—a spectacle that left an indelible mark on the pulling circuit.

With upgraded 540 cubic inch Chev installed in 2010, Plum Crazy solidified its status as the tractor to beat. Tenacious and ever-evolving, it continues to dominate the open class, proving that even after four decades, Plum Crazy hasn't lost its edge.

Today, Plum Crazy remains a force to be reckoned with, a living testament to the enduring spirit of Australian tractor pulling. As it continues to give rival tractors a run for their money, Plum Crazy stands as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and the timeless thrill of tractor pulling excellence.