Massey 135 transmissions

[beernuts]

Was the 6 or 8 speed transmission in the 135 synchronized? In other words were any built to be shifted on the roll? I seem to remember someone stating that on the 8 speed transmissions, that 1st and 4th were synchronized. I also thought I saw parts available for a "constant mesh" 8 speed, as well as a "synchromesh" 8 speed. I was curious what the difference was. I was also curious what year the 8 speed started becoming an option. I am assuming that the 6 speed was base level trim and was not synchronized. Between the 6 and 8 speed, which is more reliable.....will take more abuse, years of service w/o repair?

I have also heard that at some point on the 135's that the pan design changed on the perkins engine because of problems with leakage on the earlier design, is this true as well?

Thanks

Beernuts

 

[whistlepig]

Was the 6 or 8 speed transmission in the 135 synchronized? In other words were any built to be shifted on the roll? I seem to remember someone stating that on the 8 speed transmissions, that 1st and 4th were synchronized. I also thought I saw parts available for a "constant mesh" 8 speed, as well as a "synchromesh" 8 speed. I was curious what the difference was. I was also curious what year the 8 speed started becoming an option. I am assuming that the 6 speed was base level trim and was not synchronized. Between the 6 and 8 speed, which is more reliable.....will take more abuse, years of service w/o repair?

I have also heard that at some point on the 135's that the pan design changed on the perkins engine because of problems with leakage on the earlier design, is this true as well?

Thanks

Beernuts

I did own a 1964 MF135 for several years but I am not an expert. I stand to be corrected. I don't think the 135's had a synchronized transmission. I think John Deere came out first with synchronized transmissions after the MF135's were gone. You are correct that the six speed was standard and twelve speed an option. I had the six speed. The MF135's were overbuilt. They are tanks. I doubt that anything is as well built as these tractors were. Mine had a Perkins diesel. I can't comment on the oil pan. I knew of no issues on the oil pan until I read your post. I had no oil pan problems with my '64.

 

[flusher]

Was the 6 or 8 speed transmission in the 135 synchronized? In other words were any built to be shifted on the roll? I seem to remember someone stating that on the 8 speed transmissions, that 1st and 4th were synchronized. I also thought I saw parts available for a "constant mesh" 8 speed, as well as a "synchromesh" 8 speed. I was curious what the difference was. I was also curious what year the 8 speed started becoming an option. I am assuming that the 6 speed was base level trim and was not synchronized. Between the 6 and 8 speed, which is more reliable.....will take more abuse, years of service w/o repair?

I have also heard that at some point on the 135's that the pan design changed on the perkins engine because of problems with leakage on the earlier design, is this true as well?

Thanks

Beernuts

It's a simple constant mesh gear tranny, no synchros (my 135 is a 1964 diesel with Multipower).