Super C precheckout failure

[gus1]

Hi, first post here, I am looking to buy a WFE Super C for some light duty hay raking (40-50 acres) and came across one locally that has some
issues. During a test drive, once it warmed up the engine was running rough (like not on all cylinders) and totally lacked power. Owner said
he cant figure it out. He explained that he once shut her down and it popped, almost reverse rotated and broke the points, He had replaced
them, along with cap, rotor, plugs, etc, timed it, cleaned/checked carb, also checked the timing chain/alignment, etc... but has not been
able to get it to run smooth. After that experience I offered $1k (tires are weathered, no FH). I really liked the tractor, nice stance and
with the hills around my area would be a nice tool. He rejected my offer and still wants $2k.... Is there a simple fix for this that someone
may have experience with, Unit doesnt blow smoke at all, so I dont think its a head issue. I just dont want to get into a boondoggle. Thanks
for reading, Doug.

 

[Phil Tibbetts]

Could be the coil if it happens after warm up.

 

[DeltaRed]

Around here you can buy a good running see for under $1,000. he's pretty proud of it. Let him keep it.

 

[560Dennis]

What was the oil pressure when all rough running started to happen ? Check the radiator cold for present of engine oil. Our super C would not idle because they never change oil in it and the rocker arm were worn out could not get the valves to open . I know that Im going to put 1000 to 1500 easy into a tractor .

 

[gene bender]

run a compression check

 

[Janicholson]

I agree with Gene Bender, and the collective idea that it is 2X its value or more. If he won't talk, walk. With no good tires, and not operating at all well, it is an $800 tractor on a high value day. If you find out he has a pushrod off and it runs OK, it is still 100% too much.

 

[gus1]

(quoted from post at 10:42:51 02/25/21) I agree with Gene Bender, and the collective idea that it is 2X its value or more. If he won't talk, walk. With no good tires, and not operating at all well, it is an $800 tractor on a high value day. If you find out he has a pushrod off and it runs OK, it is still 100% too much.

I hear you. He did mention compression test was ~150 on all cyls. I will be patient for a runner, a lot of junk out there and I don't have the time, knowledge, or money to spend on fixing junk. I can stand to do maintenance and fix a few things, but this one sounds like a hole that could get deep quickly. Thanks for all the replies

 

[C.Amick]

I think $1,200 would be about the right price in my area. It is one of the best tractors around for raking hay. I would rather have the narrow front for a shorter turning radius.

 

[560Dennis]

You want to do a compression test after it warms up 15 minutes , I dought the 150 psi on all cylinders
Wide fronts turn hard if trust bearings are gone, sure you want a larger steering wheel . You develop good shoulders muscles after ten acres

 

[BarnyardEngineering]

Even running good it would have to be a real cherry to make it worth $2000. I would chalk it up to experience and move on to the next one.

That said, those old 4 cylinder farmall engines can almost always be made to run nice unless they are absolutely clapped out.