Restoring the 1956 Hough HA Payloader and Preserving Mid-Century Iron

[MikePhua]

The Legacy of Hough and the HA Series
The Hough HA Payloader represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of American wheel loaders. Hough Manufacturing Company, founded in 1920 and later acquired by International Harvester in 1952, was among the first to popularize the term “payloader” for front-end loaders. The HA model, introduced in the early 1950s, was part of Hough’s third-generation lineup and featured a robust four-cylinder Waukesha gasoline engine paired with a mechanical drivetrain and four hydraulic lift cylinders—a configuration that offered improved lifting geometry and bucket control compared to earlier models.
By 1956, the HA had become a staple in municipal yards, quarries, and agricultural operations. Though exact production numbers are difficult to trace, Hough loaders were widely distributed across North America, and the HA was known for its simplicity, durability, and ease of repair. Its design reflected postwar industrial optimism: heavy castings, straightforward hydraulics, and minimal electronics.
Mechanical Restoration and Brake System Overhaul
Restoring a 1956 HA Payloader begins with addressing the braking system, which often suffers from age-related hydraulic degradation. The original setup includes a master cylinder and individual wheel cylinders, all of which are prone to internal corrosion and seal failure after decades of inactivity. In one restoration effort, the master and wheel cylinders were replaced, while the brake shoes were found to be in excellent condition—a testament to the machine’s low operating hours or careful prior use.
For those sourcing brake components, modern parts houses like NAPA may still carry compatible hydraulic bits, especially if matched by bore size and thread pitch. Experienced counter staff can often identify equivalents even when original part numbers are unavailable. In some cases, vintage parts catalogs or rebuild kits for Waukesha-powered equipment may offer direct replacements.
Recommendations for brake restoration:

• Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid unless otherwise specified
  
• Hone cylinder bores before installing new seals
  
• Inspect steel brake lines for rust and replace with copper-nickel tubing if needed
  
• Bleed the system thoroughly after installation and test pedal firmness under load
  

Engine and Carburetor Maintenance
The HA’s Waukesha 4-cylinder engine, paired with a Zenith updraft carburetor, is a reliable powerplant when properly maintained. These engines were designed for low-RPM torque and long service intervals. In restoration, the carburetor may only require cleaning rather than a full rebuild, especially if the float, needle, and gaskets remain intact.
The intake and exhaust manifold assembly is a known weak point, often suffering from cracked studs or warped flanges due to thermal cycling. Replacing broken studs and resurfacing the mating surfaces can restore sealing integrity and prevent exhaust leaks.
Additional engine tips:

• Check valve lash and adjust to factory specs
  
• Replace spark plugs with non-resistor types for better ignition
  
• Inspect the distributor cap and rotor for carbon tracking
  
• Use SAE 30 non-detergent oil if maintaining original lubrication standards
  

Serial Number Location and Identification Challenges
Locating the serial number on a 1956 HA can be difficult due to wear, repainting, or missing tags. The number is typically stamped on the flywheel housing or engine block flange. Serial numbers are essential for verifying build year, sourcing parts, and documenting restoration history. If the original tag is missing, secondary identifiers such as casting codes or transmission model numbers may help narrow down the production range.
In one case, a restorer was advised to check the flywheel casing for a faint stamp, often obscured by grime or paint. Using a wire brush and flashlight can help reveal hidden markings.
Fabrication and Missing Components
Older Hough loaders often suffer from missing cosmetic or protective components, such as arm shields or wheel center caps. These parts were frequently removed during service or lost over time. Fabricating replacements requires careful measurement and reference to original drawings or surviving machines.
Suggestions for fabrication:

• Use 12-gauge sheet steel for arm shields with rolled edges for rigidity
  
• Drill mounting holes to match existing brackets or weld-on tabs
  
• Paint with industrial enamel in Hough yellow or IH red, depending on era
  
• For wheel caps, measure hub diameter and machine aluminum or steel discs with press-fit or bolt-on designs
  

Preserving History Through Restoration
Restoring a 1956 Hough HA is more than mechanical—it’s historical preservation. These machines represent a transitional era between cable-operated loaders and modern hydraulic systems. Their simplicity allows for hands-on restoration without specialized diagnostic tools, making them ideal for hobbyists and small-scale collectors.
One restorer in Michigan noted that his HA still ran when purchased, a rare find for a nearly 70-year-old machine. After addressing brakes, carburetor, and manifold issues, the loader was returned to operational status and used for light yard work and snow removal.
Conclusion
The 1956 Hough HA Payloader is a symbol of mid-century American engineering—rugged, repairable, and built for work. Restoring one requires patience, resourcefulness, and a respect for the mechanical heritage it embodies. Whether sourcing brake parts from a seasoned counterperson or fabricating missing shields from scratch, each step reconnects us with a time when iron ruled the jobsite and machines were built to last. The HA may no longer move mountains, but in the hands of a dedicated restorer, it still moves hearts.