Accept it for what it is, and be amazed at what it can do, and still be 60 years old. I don't think I'd want to pay $10000 for it though.
simonmeridew
If I had a "family" tractor that had sentimental value I could see sending to N-Complete for a re-manufacture. Other than that...it appears you can get a mid-50's Ford that has been refurbished or restored with engine overhaul and new paint for probably $3,000-$3,500+.
Seems the formula is kind of like old car restoration...by a "fixer-uper" for say $1,500-$2,000...put $2,000-$3,000 into it (not counting your labor)...and sell it for $3,500!
That is what I am looking for...preferably an 860 or 861...but also looking at Jubilee/NAA/600s/601s...and most between 1953 and 1964. Restored with nice paint...does not have to be show condition...but nearly so. Price $3,000 and up based upon work done w/documentation as well as history and features.
In Minnesota or?...keep me posted as to the real good one...I also might buy a real nice original and work on myself...using local talent
860/861 or one of their "brothers"...Tom R in Two Harbors, MN...could buy some distance away...just a little harder...TMR