MF compact model changes

BER · Dec 20, 2004

I am new to the tractor world and I was wondering, is it normal for Massey Ferguson to make major model changes to their compact tractors as often as they have the last few years? I can see this creating problems with parts and service. I purchased my MF1235 in 2001 and have had some problems with parts mix-up, and since 2001 they have made 1400 series and are now are making the 1500 series. I really don't see the market changing that much to warrant model changes every 2-4 years, but I'm not in the tractor business, I'm employed in the auto manufacturing industry. I'm just concerned about parts and the quality of sevice owners of the older compacts will receive. Is this an issue of concern to anyone but me?

Syncro · Dec 20, 2004

BER- I have a 1240 and am thinking the very same thing. Mine is very low hours and I don't need any parts, yet, but what about down the road when I do? I agree that change for the sake of change makes no sense and sure would feel more comfortable with a 10 year model run.

JerryG · Dec 20, 2004

If you are having problems with parts for any MF 1200 series, the problem is with your dealer not Massey.

BER · Dec 20, 2004

That's where the root of the problem is. What concerns me: Is Massey Ferguson giving the dealers the support needed to keep up with the changes in sevice problems and proceedures for all the different models being used and the new ones too? Is Massey Ferguson capable of doing it? I'm aware there are changes continuously taking place in tractor technolgy and manufacturing processes. I know first hand, some changes are good and some are not.

JerryG · Dec 20, 2004

<font color="blue">Is Massey Ferguson giving the dealers the support needed to keep up with the changes in sevice problems and proceedures for all the different models being used and the new ones too? Is Massey Ferguson capable of doing it? </font>
Yes, they are. The only problem is that some dealers don't want to keep up. That is difference between a good dealer and a bad one.

BER · Dec 20, 2004

What is Massey Ferguson doing to ensure their dealers are keeping up? Do they check the dealerships facilities routinely? Do they send tech reps to the dealerships to train and familiarize the dealership's team with new products and procedures. Do they send out follow-up questionaires to customers asking for suggestions on how to improve their company's products and services? I see the dealership as a direct represenative and reflection of the company whose name is on the sign out front by the road. Poor service can make even the best product less desirable, even the Japanese auto companies are figuring this out.

JerryG · Dec 20, 2004

Yes, they do everything that you asked. They also have regional training class, except I don't know how they track each type of training.

Glenn9643 · Dec 20, 2004

Jerry,

Is the 1500 series at the dealer's yet? I've not been around to see. Also, do you know if they are being built by Iseki as the 1400 series was, or anything about the mechanical changes? Thanks.

JerryG · Dec 20, 2004

Glenn,
I usually keep up to date on most MF things, but have not even tried to find anything out about the 1500. It does appear to be a Iseki, but have I seen one.