Hobby tractor restoration project

[workshopman]

I've been thinking of starting a weekend restoration project restoring an old tractor but I have no idea which one would be a good one to start on. I was thinking maybe a MF 135 or 290 but I'm not sure if those are a good choice for a newb like me. Does anyone here have any good suggestions for a newb like me?

 

[JOCCO]

Whatever you get make sure it's something you can easily get parts for. #2 get something that is not a basket case like good engine and tires.

 

[560Dennis]

YT has suggestions references articles in the resources header above ,you can read them over

 

[workshopman]

YT has suggestions references articles in the resources header above ,you can read them over

Thanks, I'll have a look at it.

 

[Tgrasher]

If thats the tractor that looks appealing to your eye, go for it. When looking one over crack every drain plug on the machine just enough to see if water comes out. Don't be afraid to bring your own tools to do it (bring cardboard to lay on). If it has set outside, you can bet it has. Most of the time you'll be told "ran when parked", but ask why it was parked.

 

[workshopman]

If thats the tractor that looks appealing to your eye, go for it. When looking one over crack every drain plug on the machine just enough to see if water comes out. Don't be afraid to bring your own tools to do it (bring cardboard to lay on). If it has set outside, you can bet it has. Most of the time you'll be told "ran when parked", but ask why it was parked.

Now that's some really good advice, thanks I'll do just that.

 

[rustred]

I've been thinking of starting a weekend restoration project restoring an old tractor but I have no idea which one would be a good one to start on. I was thinking maybe a MF 135 or 290 but I'm not sure if those are a good choice for a newb like me. Does anyone here have any good suggestions for a newb like me?

well for one thing the old 1950's tractors are much simpler to work on then the newer models. plus keep in mind a gas engine is much easier for a beginner also. plus it depends on what your idea of a restoration is. that is a big word. some think a paint job is a restoration but it can also be a complete every nut and bolt disassembly. no one knows your capabilities here , so its up to you to fill us in for a proper direction to proceed on.

 

[560Dennis]

I suggest you make a budget for the project. A reasonable figure not to exceed.
Also time , how much time are you willing to put in on your tractor.
I find older tractors requi fixing on all the primary functions.
I also find the that that estimate of cost to repair easily exceed three times the budget.
Don’t ignore the pitfall or the tractor will quickly fade off into someday I’m going to get it going , someday.

 

[glennster]

if you are new to the tractor scene, pick something simple that has readily available parts and is a small easy to trailer machine. a farmall cub, ford n series, allis chalmers b.

 

[jwal10]

Good tires, the bigger the more expensive. Make sure they are a common size, easy to get. In stock sizes, even special order can be expensive. Really check the rims too, especially around the valve stems, if rusty and have fluid can be expensive and some Massey rims are tough to find and expensive. I would start with a small gas tractor for first tractor. Something that runs well. If it does not run, really need to check it out, Why? Is the oil milky, no water in the radiator, water system broke from freezing? Do you have any jobs in mind? Make sure it will handle the equipment needed to do the job(s). I would want a 3 pt tractor unless a popular model that has better resale. 135 Massey isn't a lot bigger than an 8N but a lot more useful and a popular model. Only bad thing can be power steering can be hard to get parts. The 2000, 3000, 4000 series Fords are a popular model with a lot of updates. IF you can find an Oliver 550 for near the same price, generally good resale, if that is your reason for buying. If just to enjoy, any old tractor will work, pick something you like, just find the best one you can at a reasonable price, least wear for year and model. But good tires and rims are still important if you just want to do tractor rides. If doing tractor rides make sure it has good ground speeds, seems row crop models typically have better road speeds but they can tip easier with their higher ground clearance, are typically wider for stability, bigger, harder to haul....James

 

[jwal10]

Older, less expensive Ferguson and Massey Feruson models would be the TO20, TO30, TO 35 and 35 models. Check Tractor Data.

TractorData.com Ferguson TO-35 tractor information

www.tractordata.com

You can arrow up to the 35 or 135, down to TO 35, TO30, TO 20.

Ford also made corresponding models. 8N, NAA, 600 and 800 series tractors....James

TractorData.com Ford 640 tractor information

www.tractordata.com