Looking to buy an 861 - Loader or no loader?

[Midwest Tractor Guy]

Been looking for a solid Ford 861 for sometime now and it's getting frustrating. I'm either a day too late or the condition doesn't justify the asking price.

I've read a couple posts on avoiding this generation of tractors with loaders, but I've found one that might be worth looking at.

Any suggestions on what I should be looking for in terms of issues if a loader is installed?

After 60+ years of use on these machines its hard to tell what any tractor has been through, any tips are greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

This post was edited by Midwest Tractor Guy on 09/04/2023 at 07:46 am.

 

[Sean in PA]

The most common issue with a loader on those tractors is worn front spindle bushings and/or the spindles themselves. The center pin is the next thing that might possibly wear out. Jack up the front end if you can before buying to see if anything in the front axle and steering linkage has a lot of free play.

 

[Leroy]

Same thing on any Ford tractors of that vintage except the row crop models or
industrial units that would have a heavier axle. Main thing would be if center of axle
is bent from overload, had to replace that on the 1944 2N once due to bending from
loader. Other than general ware.

 

[Andy Wickiser]

Loader will be O.K. as long as you don't abuse it and realize it's not a new modern one. And I don't have power steering.

<IMG SRC=https://i.postimg.cc/WbvmC4Ps/Ford703w-Load.jpg>
<IMG SRC=https://i.postimg.cc/j5fN3pgW/Ford703-Dump.jpg>

 

[petertay]

Does it have power steering? It doesnt look like it in the photo, but maybe Im not seeing it. It will be a challenge to steer, even with an empty bucket w/o PS.

 

[Ultradog MN]

Are you aware that that big honkin loader will make a dreadnought out of that nimble little tractor?
That it appears to Not have power steering so will take half an acre of land to turn it around?
That all the ball joints and steering parts including the sector gears in the steeeing box will likely be wornn?
That it is an agony to have that big bucket clanking around and blocking your view while mowing or doing field work?
I have gotten by just fine for most of 20 years with my similarly sized 3000 and a boom pole for lifting/loading stuff and a rear scoop for hauling the chain saw, tools, bags of mulch and fertilizer.
If you need a loader then get a loader. But know they make a little tractor a cumbersome behemoth for many tasks

 

[Sean in PA]

Those pictures are not from the OP. Those were posted by Andy Wickiser to show the OP that he has one with a loader and that he things that his is fine with one.

 

[Lynn Patrick]

Midwest Guy, I'm in Iowa (can't get much more mid-west!) &amp; I have an 801/861 for sale! Email me for info!

 

[Midwest Tractor Guy]

(quoted from post at 06:45:29 09/05/23) Midwest Guy, I'm in Iowa (can't get much more mid-west!) &amp; I have an 801/861 for sale! Email me for info!

Email sent through the forum, thanks.