VAC14

[Chris Lebeau]

Would the VAC 14 be considered rare? This site showes the production numbers to be aroung 7500.
I have one and the engine has been disassembled.
Should I part it out or try and restore it?

 

[Christopher Mikesell]

Most collectors do not consider the VAC-14 to be rare. However, it is somewhat uncommon and seems to be more desireable than a regular VAC or VAC-13. The main reason that it is not considered to be more desirable to collectors is that it is relatively common when compared to several other tractors in the VA-series. Namely, the VAO (usually grouped with the VAO-15, ~6500 made), the VAH (~2000 made), and the VAS (~1500 made). It is not uncommon for a collector to see someone else with a restored VAC-14 at a large regional show, but it is very unlikely that he/she will see another collector at such a show with a restored VAS.
However, the VAC-14 has some nice features which make it more usable than a regular VAC. First, it has a low-ish operator platform that does not require a ladder to get onto (you are less likley to fall off and hurt yourself, too). Second, it (usually) has an adjustable wide front which makes it slightly more stable than the common tricycle VAC (I understand that about 10% of VAC production had the adjustable wide front). Third, it came standard with the eagle hitch (uses most 3-point implements) and therefore the better (live) hydraulic system by default.
Personally, I also like the low operator position because it allows me to drive under trees and into the woods without worrying as much about getting hit with branches. However, the narrow front end that is usually found on a VAC makes steering between trees easier.
So, if you want a VA-series case, then a VAC-14 isn't a bad one to get. However, this was the tractor that I bought, so I may be a bit biased.
Finally, the market for case tractors is not as strong as that for most other vintage tractor brands. For example, in my area there is a restored VAC for sale with good tires for $1200 which has not sold for over 6 months. I have been watching, and most running VACs in my area seem to sell for $1000 or less. I bought my VAC-14 for $600 complete, with a stuck engine and usable tires, and I would not have paid any more for it than I did.

 

[TimBinWV]

I had one I put an older engine on, and I loved it. I've got the '54 engine left here in pieces, needing a crank reground. I wouldn't mind having another, if it were cheap enough.

 

[CHinNY]

Chris was wondering what part of the country you are and if you are going to part it i am interested in some parts or the complete tractor. I do some organic farming and use mostly Case and have several VAC and VAC 14"s i use on the farm.