Selectospeed

[guzzibob]

Is anyone doing anything with the later model SOS (3cyl) transmissions ? I have heard that most people won't mess with them at all. I have a good working unit that I have been using for the past 6years with no issues. Is it worth anything ? I know you can't get a lot of the part's any more. This is the first time I have posted anything so I am sure I made some mistakes.

 

[Zeke Boniface]

I have three post '64 SOS tractors. I would guess that a working tractor is worth at least $1000 to $2000 less than an eight speed in many locations based on fear. The fear is not entirely unfounded; any machine fails eventually, and many SOS parts are unobtainable new, certain used parts can be scarce and expensive, and not many dealers nor independent mechanics are interested in attempting repairs.

Zeke B.

 

[Fordfarmer]

"Unit" being a transmission, or a complete tractor? You're looking to sell? Location? Which model? They aren't as popular as the 8-speed, and don't bring as much, but people DO buy them...a few even prefer them. There are free classified and picture ads on this site, if you are wanting to sell. (look at the left hand top of the page)

 

[Larry NCKS]

Keep using it. While many don't like them, there are some of us who would have no other transmission in a Ford tractor of that era . . . and BTW, are not afraid to work on them if need be.

Most of those who don't like them or are afraid of them have had no real experience with them. They have mostly just listened to tales from others who've listen to tales from others, none of whom have had no acquaintance with the SOS, but just like to spread gossip.

 

[Ultradog MN]

[i:654c4848f0]"Most of those who don't like them or are
afraid of them have had no real experience
with them. They have mostly just listened to
tales from others who've listen to tales
from others, none of whom have had no
acquaintance with the SOS, but just like to
spread gossip."[/i:654c4848f0]

On the other hand,
There is that gossip, those silly old wive's
tales, that say they are overly complex for
the average hobbiest to rebuild, that some
parts are nla, that they require more
maintenance than a crashbox and that they
jerk like hell.

 

[showcrop]

I have had one for around 15 years. It is a 1959 971. I put only about 20 hours a year on it. It works perfectly OK, and other than adjusting the PTO cable linkage, which included straightening a bent part inside, all I have done is change the oil. I was concerned about breaking a shift cable, so I watched for used ones, and picked up a spare for each.

 

[fredstev]

(quoted from post at 12:02:41 03/08/17) I have had one for around 15 years. It is a 1959 971. I put only about 20 hours a year on it. It works perfectly OK, and other than adjusting the PTO cable linkage, which included straightening a bent part inside, all I have done is change the oil. I was concerned about breaking a shift cable, so I watched for used ones, and picked up a spare for each.

I've owned my 1961 SOS for 42 years and used to really hyperventilate about something catastrophic happening. I also have a spare shift cable, but haven't needed it yet. About 90 hours a year on it, some heavy work skidding trees, plowing, etc. Every 3rd year, I change oil and filter and adjust the bands if needed. Guess I'll just keep using the thing.

 

[Dean]

Parts availability for the S-O-S is about the same as for the five speeds, and overhaul cost is similar.

Dean

 

[Larry NCKS]

(quoted from post at 05:15:18 03/08/17)
On the other hand,
There is that gossip, those silly old wive's
tales, that say they are overly complex for
the average hobbiest to rebuild, that some
parts are nla, that they require more
maintenance than a crashbox and that they
jerk like hell.

Dean said part of it. Parts are no more difficult to find for an SOS than for a 5 speed or likely any other machine of that vintage.

As for the jerkiness, a good bit of that is lack of experience on the part of the operator as well, but then some of us learned back when we were still young enough to pick up a technique or two.

As far as hell being jerky . . . I can find nowhere in scripture that tells me it is. I do believe Abraham will no more send Lazarus down to dip his finger in the water and touch any one of our tongues than he would for the rich man.