Buying Advice 2006 Challenger 287B

lb-farmboy · Mar 15, 2012

Does anyone know anything about this machine as far as dependability and functionality?. The dealer says it is a hydrostat......it is an 8 on a scale of 1 to 10, cab model, everything works, interior very good, no loader and has around 800 hrs.. I understand that this is the same as the Massey 1500 series, if I am correct! Are parts still available?? Price is 17,000 out the door!

droptop · Mar 17, 2012

I looked on Tractordata.com and didn't find the 287B, you might want to verify the model. As for parts and reliability, you should have no problems. Parts are available and the tractor would be almost the same as the Massey's.

jlsmith · Mar 17, 2012

It is the same as the MF but painted yellow. Parts are still available but ask for MF parts because they are cheaper. Verry good tractor,

lb-farmboy · Mar 19, 2012

Thanks droptop and jlsmith for the replies. Is this tractor made my Massey or someone else? jl.....sounds like you are a true "Massey fan", certainly nothing wrong with that! Pls. reply....Leland B.

Gittyup · Mar 19, 2012

I don't know much about these, but a used 1500 series without a loader probably wouldn't command that kind of money. The cab does make a difference and cabs are expensive. Still think it's high.

WilliamBos · Mar 19, 2012

Would that be a 285B? They are built by Iseki of Japan, same line as the MF compacts.

MIKE R · Mar 19, 2012

The big Challengers are built by Cat. As mentioned above they are built by Iseki of Japan. Same as a Massey only yellow.

WilliamBos · Mar 19, 2012

MIKE R said:
The big Challengers are built by Cat. As mentioned above they are built by Iseki of Japan. Same as a Massey only yellow.

Actually, the MFWD Challengers are built by MF, painted yellow. Not sure if AGCO owns the plants where the track and Mt 900 are built? They will soon all be SISU powered, opening the door for the Vario transmission.

droptop · Mar 19, 2012

I just read that AGCO just expanded their plant in Jackson, MN where the tracked Challenger and big 4 wheel drive tractors are built. They began building the MF 8600 series their, moving the production for the North America back from France. Finally something being made in the US.:thumbsup:

Row-Crop Tractor Assembly Begins at AGCO Jackson