What to look for on a IH 706?

rktman · Oct 1, 2009

I'm going to sale next week with an IH 706 diesel. Anything specific to look for? Reasonable price? I'm thinking 3-5k depending on the condition.
Thanks.

VALENT · Oct 1, 2009

I think your price is about right with a decent looking tractor. These were some real workhorses from the last century for many farms. I really like mine.

radman1 · Oct 1, 2009

As with most older IHs, the TA condition will be important. Use to run a 706 gasser, and still use an 806. The gasser could use a lot of fuel. Lot of these tractors were 2 pt. Many can be converted to 3 pt but having one already converted will save a fair amount of $. Not the easiest shifing tractors but trannys were reliable.
3-5k would be on the low side for wide front end in good to very good condition.

art · Oct 2, 2009

The TA if so equipped would be a concern, if it's a gas engine your price is about right, a diesel will normally bring a few thousand more. The older diesel used a D-282 engine which is a good engine and we had many go well over 10,000 hours before rebuild. The later engine used was the D-310 which is a german built engine and also was a good long life engine.

Call me and I can tell you how to test a TA system before you buy with just operating it and it works about 99% of the time to tell you if it's on the way out. Many times they fail just do to the hydraulic pumps. The other way is they are used as a brake, TA is short for Torque Amplifier which is to add torque on a full pull at full throttle.

rktman · Oct 2, 2009

Thanks for the replies,

It is a diesel, and I'm hoping to find a deal (but probably not).
I've heard about testing the TA by putting it in a higher gear, applying brake, and then engaging the TA to see if it works. What is your method?

VALENT · Oct 2, 2009

Since we are on the subject, how much validity is there to this? Once you start sensing problems with the TA, put it in high range and leave it there.
I have heard this same advice repeatedly.

You'lls talk about pricing really makes me think I got a deal. Even if it is hard to start no matter the weather.

AKwelder · Oct 2, 2009

another factor is the tires. If they need replacement you can spend money you thought you had saved. Also some of them ran fluid in the tires that can rust out the rims. just my 2 cents

I have been looking for a 706 gasser in MN with 2 point and a loader. 2 point has downward force that i want for a rear blade. So far things haven't worked out but one day i will find one to drag home.

good luck and let us know how it works

art · Oct 2, 2009

rktman said:
Thanks for the replies,

It is a diesel, and I'm hoping to find a deal (but probably not).
I've heard about testing the TA by putting it in a higher gear, applying brake, and then engaging the TA to see if it works. What is your method?

Be sure the tractor is warmed up. Do as you have stated in high gear TA ahead hard on the brakes but also when you pull the lever back turn the steering wheel. The steering, brakes and the TA shift both work off the same pump and this way you are using all of the system at the same time and show a weakness. When testing if the pump is weak then change it, otherwise it will kill the TA anyway.

rktman · Oct 2, 2009

An obvious question but what if the TA doesn't work. How much will it affect the operation of the tractor? How much to deduct?

art · Oct 3, 2009

To do the TA often the clutch will get done at the same time. this will add a bit inthe additional costs as the flywheel should be turned by someone with the proper specs on the depth. A shop price should be just over 3,000 with the clutch doing it right.

Seen people go 8,000 hours plus on the TA and some only 2,500 hours.