Thoughts on MF 235?

[Marsha Thue]

Hello, new here and new to tractors. I'm about to purchase a 1975 MF 235. From the research I've been able to do in a very short time, the power steering on this model is not too good. Other than that, the one I'm looking at seems in good shape, engine overhauled five years ago, has a loader and everything operates properly.I would really appreciate any input or advice as I have become quite fond of it and would like to keep it running for a long time. Thank you in advance.

 

[Gale Hawkins]

Marsha we are in the same boat with a 265 MF from 1976 that was my father in law's tractor but it does not have a loader which would be nice.

If you have records on it that would be nice but if not then a valve adjustment and a total change out of fluids could be good PM actions.

While he bought our tractor new and it only has 1226 hours I know rubber parts and fluids do damage with only age so when everything gets settled we plan a once over since we do not plan to ever sell it outside of the family. This age of tractor does not loose in value and keeping them up does not cost all that much vs. letting them damage for the lack of care.

It does sound like a sweet tractor. Did they rebuilt the front axle pin when they overhauled it? Loaders can put a load on that part.

 

[Anonymous-0]

235"s had major issues with the steering, and parts are virtually non-existant to fix the power steering. Also, they weren"t good loader tractors at all. The light duty front axle just didn"t have much of a chance. As mentioned, the axle pivot was the weak link. Other than that, they"re great little tractors. Just look over that front end really carefully.

 

[DavidP,South Wales]

Hello,
We do not have a model 235 in the UK but do have a 230 and 240. Whilst loaders are available for both it has to be remembered that they are basic utility, run-about, 'yard scraper' tractors and not built for constant loader and work beyond their reasonable capability particularly the 230.
I am interested to know in what way the steering differs to make parts difficult to acquire.
With regard to your earlier posting on 265 tappet adjustment, the procedure is quite different to the 3 cylinder engines.
I assume that you have an A4.236 engine fitted.
The procedure is to follow the 'Principle of 9'.
With number 8 valve fully open adjust number 1 to 012". With number 7 valve fully open adjust number 2 etc. Always make 9.

DavidP,South Wales