MF 231 diesel

[Pipestem]

I ran across a MF 231 that has been in garage storage for about ten years. Been started once in that time. I put cables on battery to boost it and got some of the dash to come alive but thats it. Not even a click at the starter. I added a jump pack to the starter terminal and grounded it still nothing. I didnt see any sign of damage to the wiring. Didnt have volt ohm meter with me. Is there a safety switch or something Ive overlooked. I own a MF 265 but this being a newer tractor maybe there is more to starting it? Dont know when I will get back to it but thought I would ask for advice while its fresh on my mind. While the garage its in isnt heated the tractor looks new and in excellent condition with not quite 1,200 hours showing.

 

[MF#1]

That is a sharp looking tractor! Did you put the High-Low-Start lever in Start(middle position)? Try to turn the lights on with the jumper pack attached, if they are bright then the wiring should be okay. I would clean the battery connections, especially the ground, at both ends, get a new battery and try again. Also check the wiring at the neutral safety switch, top of trany, two wire connection. Sitting for that long could have corroded the wire/cable ends. If you see any fuses check them out too. Good Luck with it, should be very handy!

 

[MF#1]

Should have added, when you attached the jumper pack to the starter and ground the starter should have turned but not engage. Then either use the key or a chrome screwdriver or wrench across the large post to the small post on the solenoid to get it to engage the flywheel. Sometimes a light tap with a hammer on the starter case is needed. You'll also have to make the decision whether to chance the injector pump after sitting that long, worst case is the pump gets damaged trying to start it.

 

[801 Powermaster]

I own my late uncles 231s with a loader. It is a 2000 year with 600 hours. Like the other member said. make sure the high- low shifter is in neutral and the trans too. also check that the pto shifter isn't engaged. It should turn over then if battery is up

 

[BC135Can]

I own my late uncles 231s with a loader. It is a 2000 year with 600 hours. Like the other member said. make sure the high- low shifter is in neutral and the trans too. also check that the pto shifter isn't engaged. It should turn over then if battery is up

Hi Guys, I have become recent owner of a 231 Massey and there is one outstanding peculiarity. To raise the 3 point arms you push the position lever forward, backwards lowers. This is reverse to any other tractor I’ve owned. Is your 231 the same?
Thanks

 

[MF#1]

For whatever reason, the 255 is reversed from a 245, I have both. I have to pay close attention when using one or the other. Don't know why Massey did that but that's the way it is. I would suspect the 231s is the same.