Thanks, I think so too! Repair progress is in my other thread, which you've already replied to:
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/...353411-repairing-mf35-utility-hydraulics.html
I was hoping for a Perkins diesel, but as you said (and others in this thread) I got a pretty good deal on this machine so I couldn't pass it up! Mine has no reduction and outboard drum brakes. Kenneth suggested the same thing as far as walking the tractor out of a tough spot using the brakes. At first I was planning to find a housing that has a diff lock, but decided I'll just roll with this machine as-is. Check out my other thread for continued progress, I've now got the hydraulic pump out and apart on the work bench.
Ha Ha ..... Shaeff, I was just reading the other thread! :laughing: I was going to ask you if it's the same tractor.
While we all see some "shortcomings" in the machine we have, regardless of what it is, we should instead keep in mind what it
will do for us. For instance, our loader is wide-tracked, heavy and very stable. I love the bucket capacity it has, but a 4-way bucket would at times be a huge bonus. The additional torque a 4cyl Perkins would be at times welcome, as would 4WD, but these features wouldn't by me be frequently used, and they all come at a price.
I consider myself reasonably lucky obtaining a reasonably capable machine for AU$2500, whilst realising it needed repairs, it's pretty-much a personal opinion whether to describe it as work or hobby - I tend to view it as hobby. If you are of the same view, I reckon, like me, you'll enjoy driving yours after it's back together and working. I had to overhaul my engine, repair a damaged bucket, one brake was oil-soaked, I promptly blew a hose ..... it's quite a list! That said, now she's a rather capable machine considering her age, and extremely useful for everything from carrying winter's firewood to shifting the vege garden soil and compost around (cuts down the shovel-and-wheelbarrow work notably
).
Our MF135 was my father's tractor - it's up to us to look after it. It is used generally for slashing, crane attachment lifting, pulling things about - it's lighter and more manoeuverable. All our children, and yes, both our daughters can very capably drive it. My neighbours love it too!
I shall start a thread as soon as time permits to give you all their stories.
I place a much higher priority on function and reliability than appearance, so they both are always wearing their "working clothes". I do agree though it is preferable to see them looking tidy, rather than rough.
Thanks for your tips Redman :thumbsup: You are correct in that it is indeed difficult to neutralise torque-lock, and also its pedal shaft seizes very quickly - to the point where we tied the pedal permanently in the released position. I find judicious use of steering brakes the best remedy, the same action as I used to employ on our old MF35 when I was growing up.
