Vintage Massey - quality pre and post AGCO

PsRumors · Sep 3, 2020

I had my heart set on a nice 135 but in looking at the next series (235, 240, 245 mainly) am finding it easier to find nice low hour tractors. Some of these, like the 245, span through the purchase by AGCO and makes me wonder if quality changed any.

Would there be a reason to purchase either a pre or post AGCO tractor?

The 135 is touted as one of the best tractors ever made, how would the 245 compare?

Main uses will be pulling a RFM, tiller, core aerator

Agvg · Sep 3, 2020

235 and 240 is almost the same tractor, mainly sheet metal difference but for some reason they often are cheaper than a 135/148. Never heard any complaints on quality on the 235/240 series, but it might be different in the US.

ammoaddict · Sep 3, 2020

I have a 2001 231s. 45hp 3 cylinder Perkins diesel. Was built in turkey. It's a good tractor but still alot like the old 135.

Gale Hawkins · Sep 3, 2020

We have a 1976 MF that belonged to her father. I lean Ford but this tractor is strong and heavy and more like a Ford 4000/5000 series. We got it 11 years ago with 1200 hours on it and it mainly runs a very super duty 6 foot cutter. We put new tires on it because on rear failed after 38 years. After combining season my favorite one man tractor shop said bring it over and he will fix leaks and the like. Basically I have already talked to the wife and told her it may cost a lot but if our kids every decide they do not want it it will move back to her brothers kids. I got a 3PH fork lift attachment for it and plan to keep it around for a way to unload freight that come on a pallet if nothing else. Now we use it to bush hog when we let the things get behind.

Any old tractor can cost a lot to repair but if in fair shape they can still do a lot of work. They are short on safety features. The 200 MF series are more likely to have roll bars than the old 100 series but can get under low limbs and barn doors.

Take your time because the new small tractors with cabs and AC have made this old iron in less demand in many areas. Often if you buy right you can get your money back if the tractor is not meeting your needs down the road.