Newbie tractor purchase

[Leroy]

I prefer the 2 stage as its more instinctive for me to stomp the clutch when there’s a fence
post headed in the baler. post heade

I agree with you, that is why I would prefer the 2 stage as you do not have to hunt around for a seperate lever to use when you have to make a panic stop. I have not found a good reason for the completely live PTO. When I was still farming I had 3 tractors with that independant PTO and did not like it so went back to only using the OLD John Deere A or B when I needed the PTO, Better control of the PTO powered implement than the independant PTO. Stop now when you needed a fast stop.

 

[Leroy]

To me the dead hydraulics of the N-series Fords is an even more serious limitation than the dead PTO. To require the PTO to be spinning in order to raise the hitch just seems archaic considering that other tractors with live hydraulics were on the market at the same time as the 8N.

Could you tell me what they were as I have no idea what companys had that then.Deere, IHC did not yet have live hydrolics in 1948 when the 8N came out.

 

[Steve in IL]

Well......I've narrowed it down to either a Oliver 550 or a Ford 861. Those seem to be most available and I like the look of both, and think they will serve my purpose. Now, just finding the right one.

As others have indicated, you can broaden your search considerably by also considering the first generation Ford 4000 (4 cylinder). But be careful, these are essentially an 8X1 (so they are built with various PTO & transmission options). Additionally, you might look into the later 3000 or 4000 (3 cylinder). These tractors can be found (also optionally) with several more modern features (4x2 transmission, independent PTO, diff lock, ?). We have a '73 4000 SU, which is essentially an 861 on steroids (4X2 trans, IPTO, power steering, diff lock, wet brakes).

I know it's not on your list, but you might also consider a Deere 2040, 2240, or something similar. We have a 2240, and I find it a great utility machine around the woods (in part because of the low, horizontal exhaust). Also, like the Ford, finding parts and support for the Deere will likely be better than some of the orphaned brands.

Good luck!

 

[John Deere D]

Hi All, thanks for having me! I am at a crossroads on a tractor purchase and am looking obviously for some assistance from the pros. I currently have a 30Hp utility that does all I need it to do, but my "old" man heart needs a new project, I am looking for an older tractor that I can cruise the country roads with, plow about a 1 acre garden with, put a scraper blade on a move snow on a 1/4" mile drive with, and bush hog about 3 acres with. Mostly just a "relaxation" tractor. I am mechanically inclined, so I'm not really worried about breakdowns and don't mind tinkering. Thought about maybe an 8N, and I am not brand dependant. I have a budget between 2k and 4k. Love to hear your thoughts!

Thanks, Rick

I've read all of the "YT" members comments on your posting,...soooooooooo,
I'm very pleased with my John Deere 520,Live PTO (Independent clutch from Transmission) with 18.4 X 30 Rubber,and my 1963 MF 35 X 3 cylinder Perkins Diesel,Differential rear lock,no multipower 6 speed,H/L Range selector that my parents purchased new.

My Ford 2-N is used for the only thing I find it good for...cutting the Grass in the cemetery. The Three speed Transmission is perfect for the John Deere Groomer.
The 2-N is used for nothing else.

I believe if a person cannot afford the service manual,parts catalogue,operators manual,they should not purchase or own a Tractor.

In a totally different HP range,I am totally satisfied with my Case 830 Comfort King,8 speed manual transmission and equipped with an load loader.

 

[Brendon-KS]

Could you tell me what they were as I have no idea what companys had that then.Deere, IHC did not yet have live hydrolics in 1948 when the 8N came out.

The Deere M and Farmall Cub had live hydraulic systems at their introductions in 1947.

 

[kenbob]

I’ll chime in as an owner of a ‘59 Oliver 550 and a ‘63 Ford 4000 (same as 861 but blue). Both diesel, both run like typewriters. I grew up on an 8N and both are a vast improvement. Also find them to be particularly easy on the eyes. Would love a Case 430 or a Cockshutt 540 someday.

I agree the Cockshutt looks like it would be a great tractor, though I have never seen one except in pictures.

 

[caterpillar guy]

Only 2 stage clutch I was ever around to use was on a dexta diesel and with about a foot of pedal travel if that one is set right you can have all the 2stage clutches you want.I'll take the independent PTO Have to stand up to be able to lift my foot high enough to work that 2 stage it sets so high. I believe it is not set right but was never around only that one.

 

[John Deere D]

Only 2 stage clutch I was ever around to use was on a dexta diesel and with about a foot of pedal travel if that one is set right you can have all the 2stage clutches you want.I'll take the independent PTO Have to stand up to be able to lift my foot high enough to work that 2 stage it sets so high. I believe it is not set right but was never around only that one.

On my 1963 MF 35 6 speed NO multi-power,the Clutch pedal attaches to a shaft with Knurling.
The clutch pedal ALSO has a PINCH bolt, that ensures the pedal cannot rotate, separately from the Knurled portion of the shaft.
Pic of Ferguson TEA-20 Clutch assembly for example purpose only..
Sounds to me, the clutch assembly that you described, may have had a shade tree mechanic attack it,and or the operator may have had a 24" inseam................

MF 50's 35's 65's all have pretty much same design.

 

[RickV74]

As others have indicated, you can broaden your search considerably by also considering the first generation Ford 4000 (4 cylinder). But be careful, these are essentially an 8X1 (so they are built with various PTO & transmission options). Additionally, you might look into the later 3000 or 4000 (3 cylinder). These tractors can be found (also optionally) with several more modern features (4x2 transmission, independent PTO, diff lock, ?). We have a '73 4000 SU, which is essentially an 861 on steroids (4X2 trans, IPTO, power steering, diff lock, wet brakes).

I know it's not on your list, but you might also consider a Deere 2040, 2240, or something similar. We have a 2240, and I find it a great utility machine around the woods (in part because of the low, horizontal exhaust). Also, like the Ford, finding parts and support for the Deere will likely be better than some of the orphaned brands.

Good luck!

Thanks Steve in IL, I looked at those options, and most if not all seem to be just outside the budget range on the high end.