Still trying to find that used deal. I drove 3 hours to look at a MF 175 diesel said to be in great shape with pictures to prove. The price was great so I towed a trailer with cash in hand. Unfortunately the injectors were leaking so much diesel that I have no idea how there was any in the tank. The loader had welds and was rigged to the rear remotes making you hold the rear control back while trying to operate the loader. The 3 point arms would NOT lower even standing on them until the tractor shut off, and the tires were so bald and cracked that I have no idea how there was air in them. I took a hard pass.
Tomorrow I'm going to look at a 1973 MF 165 diesel. Again, looks good however it has the multi-power transmission. Is this a deal breaker? I have read a lot about them failing and was just wondering any experience or opinions on the multi-power.
Thank again,
Mike
I hate to admit it, but some tractor owners who do not maintain their equipment properly will misrepresent their equipment when it comes time to sell. To me, it is not just hiding stuff that is not up to standard, IT IS LYING ON A NOTORIZED COURT DOCUMENT. This can be prosecuted in District Court and recoup the total value of the sale, any court related costs and 12% interest from the date of sale. Not an easy process, but doable if the seller owns land that can be seized for payout on the signed agreement between buyer and seller.
I learned this on 2 vehicle transactions, but have not run into this on a tractor. I have been around tractors since I was 6 and Dad had a Ford dealership. Even did mechanical and painting in my teens. High school kids are the cheapest labor around. We would do anything for a buck.
One note. When I look at any type of used equipment, I carry a check sheet that covers every system so I do not forget anything when doing an inspection. I check everything from bent fins on the radiator, wiring condition and installation, battery date and condition, signs of proper greasing, and of course any leaks or drips. I have been known to carry a clean sheet of cardboard and place it under the tractor while running. I take the asking price then deduct an estimated cost for each difficient item. The final number is my counter offer. I will go 10% over my offer if the equipment and fluids are clean, but no more.
This has worked well for me over the years, mostly on cars or trucks. The only complaints I have received is from Dealers, wonder why that is, that I am not qualified to estimate questionable items. My response to that criticism is that that is what it is worrth to me and I am holding the cash for the purchase. The last tractor I bought was from a farmer on Craigs List. He was asking $4950, and we loaded it on the trailer at $3300. He asked what my top offer would have been after the deal was made. I showed him my estimate sheet and I did add the 10% due to conditiin of the fluids more than anything else. My top number was $3475. He asked at what number I would have walked away. I told him $3475, especially with the numbers of good used tractors on the market today. The dealers will also arrange economy shipping that is very reasonable.
Good Luck and do not give up too soon, especially at the locals where you can see what is not selling.
Before and after photos of the 1970 Ford 4000. The before photos do not show the rusted out sheet metal very well
Sent from my SM-N910F using
Tractor Forum mobile app