235 Power Steering - Possible to find a good one?

[dozerboy450]

I've looked through all the archives on the 235 steering and have found some scattered information that I would love for someone to help straighten out for the reason of making a decision on purchasing a 235. First off, the tractor is a 1975 model with a Kelley loader. The owner has had it for 12 years and says he's never had a bit of trouble with anything on it, including the steering. The tractor is very clean with new tires, nice original paint and a weld free loader. The price is right and I was thinking about picking it up tomorrow but after checking the forums for problem areas, now I'm very concerned about the steering. I've read a few posts about Massey having fixed the problem and some saying parts are now available. Is any of this true? Is there any hope for this thing being an exception to the rule, i.e. it was updated with a properly designed system or one of the few without a problem, if that's possible? What kinds of things should I look for? I plan to still take another look tomorrow but am thinking unless I get some reassurance that there is some hope for it working correctly, I think I'm going to walk. Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Anonymous-0]

I don't know if they came up with a good fix. The 235 was only made for 2 years, I think, and then replaced with the 245. The 245 has hydrostatic steering that is much better than the steering on the 235. Other than steering issues 235's are a good tractor. One of the MF experts should know more than I do. Dave

 

[dgerth]

I""m no MF xpert but, I just had to repair the steering on a friends 235 and called around for pricing on the pinion shaft gears in the steering box. @ 918.00 each! tooooo much $. Yes, the rest of the 235 is reg MF quality. I"d pass on it myself, just me tho.
dg

 

[dozerboy450]

We"re gonna pass on it. Not worth buying something that is going to constantly need fixed. Thanks for the help