The Hytrol Story

Then, the orders stopped. Word started filtering in and around the area about the Hydro- Controls conveyor and the bag tearing problem. While some users kept the conveyor and used it for moving inexpensive feed bags, bags that only cost a dollar or two, no one wanted a conveyor that ripped expensive seed bags. Those bags could cost upward of $10 or $15 each. Seed companies couldn’t afford to damage their product and wouldn’t buy a conveyor that could possibly cost them more money to operate than it was worth. Seedburo Equipment Company was a Chicago manufacturer and distributor of agriculture related equipment. Hydro-Controls manufactured several small items for the company, and Tom was familiar with them. Rex Yocum, the owner, was one of Tom’s friends. Tom made a trip to their company and demonstrated his conveyor. He was hoping the company might agree to market and sell his new conveyor line. But after one look, they had the same objections. They wouldn’t offer a conveyor to their customers that could possibly damage their goods. Things were looking bleak. After selling 35 units, Tom was unable to sell any more. At this time in Tom’s life he was in despair. Hydro-Controls was still doing jobs and even manufacturing a product called the Wee Jack for the original inventor, a Mr. Wee. The Wee Jack was a jack that could be used to lift automobiles and the like. But these things weren’t paying all the bills. Tom was desperate.