1978 Case 1070

[Leaky]

Hi,
Hopefully am not violating any posting protocol.

I just joined. Ran across Yesterday's Tractor's while researching an older model tractor I was interested in.
Your site seemed like a good place for a die-hard DIY'er who does not think new is better, so here I am.
I'm looking for my very first tractor. Requirements are: 50HP, Diesel, Loader, and Cab.
Current object I'm looking at is a 1978 Case 1070, with a cab and loader. Current owner, says he's had it for 20yrs, recently bought a JD 4520.
If it was a truck/car, I know what to walk away from, but I'm ignorant about Tractors and need to learn.
Any advice on this model would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks. Leaky

 

[used red MN]

Hello Leaky welcome to YT! Hopefully, you realize that that tractor is about twice the HP requirement you posted, see link. If that doos not matter to you than bigger is always better. We had a 1070 on the farm. It was an okay tractor, but we had a fair bit of problems with the final drives and differential in it. But we used it like it was a bigger tractor than it really was so we were somewhat to blame. The power shift trans seemed to hold up good. We rebuilt it once only because we had the rear end opened up to work on the final drives.
Case 1070 info

 

[Leaky]

Hi,
Thanks for reply. Yes, I realize its double the HP and have no problem with that. I will eventually be moving to 25 Acres and should find additional uses for it. I tried finding older/small HP Tractor with both a Cab and loader with no luck. Then I ran across this model. The INFO on Powershift is most appreciated as I heard they can be a problem, and Tricky to work on as opposed to a Standard Transmission. Research thus far says these are strong tractors, and parts (very important to me the DIYer, are available.) Seller stated he only uses it for Brush Hogging and cited it as reason for going Green. Its always a crap shoot with anything used, but I like my Older Diesel Truck, I get a lot of Joy out of learning and making improvements.
Trying to determine way to get it moved 256 miles, if I buy it. Tractor Data shows it weighing 10K plus which exceeds my Trailer. I suppose there is someone in business of relocating these, just have not found it. Again, thanks for feedback. Leaky

 

[karl h]

Hello Leaky

My first tractor was a 1070 which served me well. I have since upgraded to a 2290 and also have a 3594. IMHO i would be looking for a 2090 or 2290 as they are easier to service as hood opens vs bolted on and the cabs are much better. The 90 series also has mush better remote hydraulics. They are closed center pressure compensated system.

 

[jon f mn]

A 1070 is an excellent tractor that will perform well above its hp rating when needed. The powershift is excellent for loader work because it works like a shuttle when shifting from forward to reverse. Good brakes and steering and small enough to be handy. Very fuel efficient and easy starting.

They are 40+ years old and so can have issues. Look for water in the engine oil. The orings that seal the sleeves can leak. Just look for milky oil. Make sure the transmission works as it should. As with any powershift they can be expensive to fix. If you don't know what oil is in the transmission, drain it and put in case hytran, other oils are not the same and can cause issues. It is more expensive, but worth it.

If it's good when you get it and you service it properly it will last a lifetime.

 

[097Clint]

The 1070 is a good tractor,as was said it's a great work horse.and the hydraulic oil is very very important.the 90 series is great too,have both,but have always been partial to the 70's.good luck,you should be very happy with it.As for the powwrshift,the closer to idle you up and down shift the smoother and easier it is on the system.
Clint

 

[DKase]

Try to always shift the power shift down from 3rd to 2nd, or 1st before pushing the clutch pedal in. If you mash the clutch pedal down while in 3rd there are a lot of clutches that all have to engage or disengage at exactly the same time. These tractors are 50 years old, and if they have not been serviced properly the spools in the power shift valve can stick, and cause problems.

 

[Leaky]

Appreciate responses very much. No better advise than personal experience.
Another question I have is how this machine does on snow. (Clearing drive/road)
Illinois is not that bad but Wyoming will be a different game.
A couple of people outside of this Forum have said 4WD while others have said chains will work.
Thanks again. Leaky

 

[XT180]

Welcome to this site !! IMO, look for something a little smaller and not the 3 speed PS of the '70 series . Why is a loader needed ? IMO, a loader on a tractor is just asking for trouble, just like a snow plow on a P/U truck :-(

 

[DKase]

I use an 8 speed 970 on a snow blower in South Dakota and get along quite well until I try to push up a big hill on icy ground. The power shift does not work as well because reverse is the same at third power shift forward. Goes fast in reverse and slow forward.

 

[Leaky]

For nearly 3 years now, Ive entertained buying a Tractor and put it off thinking it was a WANT and not a NEED. In February, I had to ask my neighbor to clear a path with his Backhoe. I tried to list all my uses for a tractor. I also dont want to buy something only to wish later I had more power, this feature etc. Again, Im ignorant about Tractors. Besides grounds work (Brush Hogging, moving fallen tree branches, dirt etc.) I do all my own work on home,vehicles, and whatever.) I move engines, transmissions, equipment and assessed a Loader would be a handy feature. I have been snowed in Illinois and KNOW it will be a reoccurrence in WY. Im no longer 18 and full of gasoline and want a Cab with creature comforts in the heat and cold. Im sure there is some Dealer who would love nothing more than to sell me a Build Your Own, delivered to my door with manual and empty handshake, but I have NO desire to be swimming in debt for next 120 months, or to go on leaving others to pay/forgive my just debts. I dont know everything, never possessed to, and certainly never been afraid to ask people with experience. Thats me, did I miss anything? Thanks Leaky