Young Iron: Kyle Sears

By Staff
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Kyle Sears with his 3 HP Samson.
Kyle Sears with his 3 HP Samson.
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Kyle Sears.
Kyle Sears.

Q. How long have you been collecting gas engines?
A. I have been collecting gas engines for about 7 years.

Q. What attracted you to the hobby?
A. I was interested in tractors before the engine bug bit me, and all I remember is that I owned five tractors and I was out of room for anything else. I quickly learned that there were a lot more engine manufacturers and models, which meant more variety, and I also learned that five engines take up about the same room as one tractor.

Q. Who else in your family collects engines?
A. My father-in-law collects tractors, but lives in Indiana. We usually find a show or swap meet to attend when visiting each other.

Q. What engines do you have in your collection?
A. My collection peaked at about 20 engines, but I think I am at 16 or 17 now as I have sold a few to be able to purchase some of the more desirable ones.

Q. What is your favorite engine in your collection?
A. My favorite engine would have to be my 3 HP Samson.  There are not many of them around Oklahoma, and it took a few years to talk a good friend into giving it up.

Q. What projects are you currently working on?
A. My current projects include a 1909 2 HP vertical Stover that is in pretty good shape and a 6 HP John Deere.

Q. As a young collector what are some of the obstacles you’ve come across?
A. Money and vacation time from work are always obstacles. I have been very fortunate in that my older friends have been very helpful and encouraging. I would like to thank them for sharing their wisdom and expertise with me.

Q. What are your favorite engines in general, and why?
A. I started out as a John Deere/Waterloo fan, but I have recently taken a liking to International engines.  There is a large variety of International engines and several of them are desirable for collectors.

Q. If money weren’t an issue, what is your dream engine to own?
A. I would like to own a large screen-cooled Titan/Famous engine. A sideshaft Mogul wouldn’t be out of the question either.


Young Iron is looking for gas engine collectors, age 35 and younger. If you or someone you know would like to be profiled, please contact Associate Editor Christian Williams: (800) 682-4704 or cwilliams@gasenginemagazine.com.

  • Published on Aug 26, 2011
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