Ford 3230 Tractor

[Brian in MA]

I have a friend looking at a 3230 tractor to buy. MFWD, loader, not sure what tranny or other dtails yet. That machine a decade plus newer than anything I have ever owned, so I'm looking for the thoughts from the group on any comments on that series tractor and specific issues to look for. It's a three cylinder diesel, I see it's rated in the 32/38 hp range. Thoughts and concerns for this model? Thanks to all as always.
 

[RickB]

Never seen a 3230; just one 3430 and a pile of 3930's and 4630's. 30 series have some nice improvements over 10 series like fully hydrostatic steering and available 8x8 or 16x16 mechanical shuttle. I'd be a little concerned that the low HP wouldn't be enough to effectively drive the MFD axle and loader. Flip side is the drivetrain should be darn near bulletproof with that little steam in front of it.
Make certain the front axle center section has oil in it, the rear trunnion seal is just an o-ring and a lack of grease to this point means seal failure and bushing wear along with potentially much worse damage.
 

[Brian in MA]

Thanks Rick. I have seen pictures and it struck me how low the horsepower was compared with the larger look/tires on the tractor. I had the same comment, it seems like you'd have to work really hard at breaking it with that little horsepower moving it.
 

[RodinNS]

The 3230 was the cheapo in the line... kinda the basic replacement for the 2910. As such it only came with the crashbox and I don't think they fitted the higher end hydraulics unless it was dealer installed. I"m kinda surprised that it's got MFWD... so it may also have the delux hydraulics and second pump. Personally... if it doesn't have the engine pump I'd not want a loader on it.
It will also only have the crashbox. The 8x8 was not fitted on the 3230.
Otherwise it's got the same chassis as the rest of the 30's with the planetary rear and a 192 engine. You could turn it up probably 10 horse if needed since it is just a derated engine.

Rod
 

[Brian in MA]

Thanks Rod. He's a back-yard farmer, so the short horsepower isn't a big deal for him. I'm a big fan of the crashbox tranny, so that's not a detracter from what he will use it for. Thanks for the input.