Possibly buying a Massey Ferguson 203 TLB, anything to look for?

aczlan · Oct 1, 2019

Looking for a tractor to run a round baler with as well as move round bales with and I ran across a Massey Ferguson 203 TLB which we are going to look at it tomorrow.
Looks like PS fluid leaks around the steering column are common in that vintage, need to check for slop around the pins for the loader and backhoe of course, clutch freeplay, gears shifting smoothly.
Anything else to look for?

The seller says that it has a PTO (need to verify that its independent or live for baling) and that the backhoe is removable.

On the todo list if we get it (in order of importance):
1. Add a ROPS and a seatbelt
2. Change all hydraulic fluids, oil/filter, fuel filter, change/clean hydraulic filter
3. Replace shifter boots (most likely will need to be done)
4. If it doesn't have a drawbar, get one (looks like a Tisco SDA75 should fit)
5. Setup rear remotes (have a power beyond capable valve out of a forklift that should work)
6. Build bale spear to replace loader bucket
7. Setup the forklift mast that I have to use the backhoe mounts

Thanks

Aaron Z

cglaser104 · Oct 1, 2019

Sounds like you've got a good handle on it. My only concern would be the removability of the backhoe/existence of a functional rear end for your purposes. Beyond that they had Perkins diesels so parts should be easy enough to come by for the engine. Good luck, hope it turns out to be worth your time.

Roadworthy · Oct 1, 2019

If it comes with a backhoe and it has a PTO already there are there three point lift arms attached or included as well?

aczlan · Oct 1, 2019

Roadworthy said:
If it comes with a backhoe and it has a PTO already there are there three point lift arms attached or included as well?

I don't think so, but we shall see. IIRC, a 3 point could be added by swapping in a different top plate, but I don't think that we will need a three point hitch for what we plan to do with this tractor. It will likely have either the backhoe or the forklift mast on it unless it is being used to make hay.

Aaron Z

aczlan · Oct 1, 2019

cglaser104 said:
Sounds like you've got a good handle on it. My only concern would be the removability of the backhoe/existence of a functional rear end for your purposes. Beyond that they had Perkins diesels so parts should be easy enough to come by for the engine. Good luck, hope it turns out to be worth your time.

From what I have seen, there are two big bolts that you loosen up and then the backhoe can be walked off. I will know better when I see it tomorrow.
From what I can find, this was built off of any of the same parts as the 35 or 135 depending on the build date.

Aaron Z