MF431

tonyt · Dec 21, 2005

I am a new member and truly enjoy this forum. The discussions have been entertaining and helpful.
My 431 just turned over 50 hours and I will soon schedule its first '"check-up". An earlier discussion on "50 hour" check-ups told me what to expect as far as work that will be done and what kind of costs will be involved.
My father-in-law bought his MF135 new in 1969 and still uses it to this day. That fact sold me on buying the 431.
Thank you.

Nasty135 · Dec 21, 2005

Hi and Welcome to TBN, great to hear another happy Massey Man joining the forum /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

cbosworth · Mar 19, 2006

You are 6 months ahead of me, same story - Father-in-law had a 1973 MF135, I am looking at the MF431. Now that you have had time in the saddle of both, how do they compare?

Did you look at the other 400 models also? What is the Shuttle feature. I don't think I need the 4WD - at least I don't think so.

Any buying logic you can lend is appreciated.

tonyt · Mar 20, 2006

I have enjoyed the MF431 so far, using it for driveway maintenance and clearing some brush with a 6' blade. My 431 has the 52hp Perkins diesel with the eight-speed gearbox. I do not have the shuttle gearbox but would highly suggest that you look into this option. It may just save you from having a sore left leg by not using the clutch so much. I believe you would have to purchase the MF461 to get the shuttle gearbox option.
I am not an expert on tractors nor do I pretend to be. I purchased the MF 431 because of reputation, price, and the fact that there is a dependable dealer nearby. I don't know if we'll have our tractors as long as our father-in-laws, but let's hope so.
Good luck in your search.

Tony

stump54 · Mar 27, 2006

Tony,
Do you have loader on your 431? If so how are the hydraulics connected?

Gary

JerryG · Mar 28, 2006

On the question about the shuttle shift. You have 8 forward and 8 reverse gears. The transmission is fully synchronized so that you can shift of the go, forward or backward. There is a lever on the left side of the steering that is for the shuttle. It is the forward to reverse shifter. As far as I am concerned it is the best transmission available for the 400 series. The only problem is that you have to step up to the next size to get it, a MF 451.

Farmwithjunk · Mar 28, 2006

The 431 uses technology that has been in use for over 50 years.(TO 35 F-40 MF35 MF50 MF135 MF150 ect) There are many modern improvements, but the 135 and 150 made back in 1971 (like the picture) was as good as it got then, and many still carry the load today. What more could a person want than a new tractor that can potentially outlast it's owner.

The Perkins 3 cylinder 152 engine is rock solid.

The tranny is still basically the same today.

The hydraulic system is improved, but is basically the same too.

They are tougher than a $2 steak, cheap to operate, stone reliable, user friendly, and have been proven to be as good as any tractor ever built.

If I was to buy a new 40 HP class tractor today, there's not 1 single doubt what I'd buy.

(This is a 1971 150. They are a "135 on steriods". The 150 used the 135 engine tranny and hydraulic. The front end is the same as a 165. (axle, steering, steering bolster, fuel tank, radiator, dash (w/ gauges) and air filter system. The 150 was originally 38 HP. This one has had the injector pump "turned up" a bit to where it's now producing 45 PTO HP. I wouldn't part with it for love 'nor money.