Any MF-85 owners out there?

[PWH]

Thanks for that additional info Grove!

Didn't have time to work on the tractor on the weekend so still don't have transmission fluid in it so I'll try to get to the pto seal this weekend. Given that I'm running out of weekends to work on it as the tractor is at my seasonal cabin and in a few weeks I'm shutting it down for the winter could I leave the tractor sit all winter without hydraulic fluid in it? Would that cause any potential damage?

I'm having trouble finding the correct transmission fluid and can't get to a MF dealer in the week.

Thanks again.

paul

Paul: Boy, is my face red! I described that procedure from memory (did mine in '03) and got to thinking that maybe I should actually go look at my tractor to make sure I told you correctly. Turns out I left out a major step. Not a difficult one, but a major one. The PTO seal is actually installed on the inside of that big rear plate. This is the big plate that has the upper link of 3-pt. on it. It's held on by 8 or so big bolts. That plate has to come off, then the seal is installed on the inside of it - flat side of seal pointing inward. The procedure is now the same as I told you w/ the added benefit of not having to work around the PTO shaft which will remain on the tractor. Be sure to clean it (shaft) off well, as you'll have to slide the housing/plate (w/ new seal) back over the shaft. Do this very carefully so as not to damage the new seal. It's a good thing you haven't put fluid back in yet because at least some would've needed draining to do this job. Also, there's probably a paper or cork gasket under the rear plate that if you can find a new one -replace it. If not, try to get it to stay on either cover or housing, then apply sealant.

 

[grove57]

Hey Paul
Leaving it empty for the winter probably isn't the worst thing you can do to it. It's not the best (condensation, possible rust, etc.), but I doubt it would do much harm. There are generic trans/hydraulic oils that meet the specs for the 85. Some of the local farm stores sell a fluid that works in Deere, New Holland, M-F, to name only a few. I left town once for 2+ years and the person who was staying at my place left my tractor sitting outside and unused the entire time. Although not empty of fluids, both the oil and transdraulic were pretty crappy upon my return. I drained and refilled, and I don't believe it caused any permanent damage. I haven't really checked it out myself, but I see a forum on lubricants here on this site. I'm sure someone else could give you a more informed opinion, but I'd say if you can't get it done - don't worry about it!
Grove

 

[grove57]

Paul, I didn't think of this 'til this morning... If you still have the old fluid, just pour that back in for the winter.

 

[JohndeereDriver]

I have a Massey Ferguson 85 Diesel. Anyone know anything about them?

 

[blackdog43]

I have an MF 85 diesel. Its a continental engine. Doesn't have glow plugs and it's hard to start. Its got a heater plug hanging out of it, i wonder if the heater would help it start easier? I've only had it 2 years and just started to use it lately.

 

[grove57]

Years ago I visited a friend up in Vermont during the 'sugaring season' (JAN./FEB.) to help make maple syrup. I recall that he had an old MF-65 Diesel that he had to plug in every night if he expected it to start the next morning. My guess is that preheating would help. At the least it couldn't hurt!

 

[WilliamBos]

You should see if you can plumb a thermostart from a Perkins using the plug in the intake?? I know of one 35 with the 23C done this way, helped greatly.

We used to throw an I dilated amulet over Dads in the EI ter, also helped keep the heat in. Draped it over the hood.

 

[PWH]

Hi guys..

Update on my MF-85...got all the fluids changed over before the snow arrived. Tractor has been outside for probably over 10yrs and not used for last 2 for sure. Amazed that she starts on the first crank almost every time after I put a good battery in and tightened a few plugs! Engine seems to run pretty good.

Anyway my most pressing issue is a rusted air valve on one of the rear tires. I'd like to replace both rears but not sure where to start.

Here's a shot of the valve...is there anyway to fix this kind of damage? I'm assuming it's due to the calcium chloride likely in the tire...

Still seems to be leaking from pto but I think I can fix that or at least plug it up as I don't run the pto.

Final shot is my son driving the MF85 a couple weeks ago....

 

[PWH]

Can anyone help with advice on how to fix my rusted rim valve?

After sitting outside all winter I put the battery back in the MF85 this weekend with some fresh gas and wouldn't you know it started on the first try!

 

[Dieseltech]

Have a MF 85 Diesel as well as Ferguson TO-35 diesel with Standard 23C engine. Both tractors need to use Thermostart intake manifold heater to start below 60 degrees, or also use blockheater when colder to save battery, starter, and my sanitiy. 35 has been rebuilt, 85 with 277 Continental is stilll original. Have had both on Rockville tractor tour in years past, each will use about 1/2 gallon an hour, but speed is average about 10 MPH. This tour is my Redneck vacation the last weekend of June every year.