Ford/ NH front decks?

[IMCA38]

Anyone here have experience with the blue front deck (CM222/224, CM 272/274, MC22, MC 28 and MC35) machines?
I have seen what seems like an unusually high number of these machines for sale via various channels (CL, e-bay, dealer websites, etc.) this spring. Some of them seem to be very low hour units, yet the asking prices seem very reasonable given what they cost new ($3,500-$6,000 on most of them).
Do they have any deep, dark secrets where the owners regret buying them and just want them gone? They seem like nice machines to me. Also, if anyone has experience, is 4WD necessary on these? Also, can you run the 72" deck on the 22 HP models, or do you need to move up to the 27-28 models to run the bigger deck?
Any input is appreciated!

 

[RickB]

We have sold a dozen or more CM's and MC's, and I have services many of those over the years. 4WD is far more popular then 2WD in this area. I suppose our rolling terrain and high humidity are factors in that, as well as those that blow snow in winter. Not sure I'd want a 72" deck on a 22 hp model. Check the drivelines, both between the engine and transmission, and tractor and deck. Both shafts require regular lubrication, and are stupid expensive if they fail. Beyond that, they are good solid machines that run for thousands of hours in commercial, institutional and municipal settings. Engines and transmissions are bulletproof if maintained.

 

[IMCA38]

RickB
Thanks for the reply.
Last year, I saw some small Kubota front decks for sale and in searching them out, found some comments that the bearings on the tractor-to-deck drive would go out. This would necessitate replacement of the entire assembly for an outrageous price.
It's good to know that this is only a problem IF you don't maintain them. The Kubota people seemed to indicate that their problem didn't really matter if you made an effort to maintain it or not.