Considering MF 65, need advice...

[autotech]

(I copied this post from "Vintage Tractors" - hoping for more feedback...)

I'm looking at a Massey Ferguson Model 65, not sure of the year. It is equipped with a wide front axle, gas motor, 3 point and one set of rear hydraulic connections (although the valve body on the trans could supply and operate a second set. Overall it is in fair to good condition. Haven't heard it run yet but battery is fairly new, oil looks good. Rear tires are decent, fronts are a bit on the thin side.

My questions:

What is parts availability like for these units?
Any reccomended sources?
Seems like a fairly simple machine - any maintainance pitfalls on these?
Any particular problems I should be looking for?
Right now the unit is set up with one side front axle longer, and one rear wheel farther out than the other (the whole unit is offset to the right) - why? Any reason not to put it back on center?
What sort of HP does this machine produce? As far as PTO output what sort of number should I be using as a guideline when considering attatchments?
What should I consider a fair price for this unit?

And as always, any other advice/input gladly accepted!

Thanks

Gregg

 

[TBone]

I don't have much personal knowledge about the 65 except that there are a lot of them around where I live.

This link: http://www.tractortips.com
will give you some specs on it.

This link:
http://www.ytmag.com
will take you to Yesterday's Tractors where you will find a wealth of information about older utility tractors.

This link:
http://hometown.aol.com/bigdean62/index.html
will take you to "Big Dean"s website. He was a Massey mechanic for many, many years and is a walking encyclopedia about their tractors.

Good luck!

TBone