MF 255 tractor

[tldnc]

I am going to look at a MF 255 with a Perkins diesel engine. I have been told the engine could be a 3.3 liter or a 3.9 liter engine. How do I tell the
difference as I am not familiar with these engines? What are the good and bad things with the MF 255 tractor?

As always thanks for your help,

 

[Dieseltech]

The early 255 with the Perkins AD4.203 has the exhaust on the left side as seated on tractor. The late 255 has the derated Perkins 236 with exhaust on the right side of engine. My preference would be the 236 as it has a balancer so engine runs smoother, the 203 has no balancer so it will shake more at some engine speeds. Bothe are good engines though.

 

[MF#1]

My Dad bought a new one in '76?, 203, still has it, one tough tractor. Within about 2 years a couple of my cousins bought 255's for dairy use, lot of grinding feed, both had the 236, no big issues. I wouldn't be afraid of either engine, be more concerned about how well they were maintained. Personally I would prefer the 8 speed over the 6 speed Multi-power, your mileage may vary.