Early 3/4 digit Original Questions...???
 

Did any of the early 3 or 4 digit serial number orginal have creeper gears?

More specifically could an early 3 or 4 digit O's frame have a hole in the frame for the creeper gear lever?

I'm trying to better understand the indicators of early O's without actually seeing the serial number.

:bigthink:

Thanks!!

I have had two early digit O's and neither one had a hole for the creeper or a slot for the steering in the dash tower.

Not sure if there is a serial no. break for these or not ?? I do know of some people swapping rearends to make an early O , it is an easy swap.

Could you explane the slot in the dash tower for the steering?

I have never heard of that difference.

It is a half moon looking slot in the right side of the dash tower. Early tractors didn't have it.

If you do a search i am sure you could find some pics. to compare. Someone on here may have some pics they can post.

I also look for collared spindles, earlier starter generator bracket, and the small slot rear wheels.:ThumbsUp:

Most creepers where dealer installed so your going to have a man made hole for the creeper. Early O's also had the regulator on the side of the dash tower. I had 3 digit but was pull start so it had no regulator. Collared spindals was an other early thing. Casting #'s in the rear and front grill was an other way to tell an early O's. Also the thin front axle. People do make fake early O's by changing the front trans reduction gear. Also collared spindles are being changed out.
So if your making one or buying one look close to casting #'s. Especially if your paying a lot for one. Do your research.

Thanks, mmzullo!
That is exacly what I am doing...getting educated.
I have an O that I am looking at and it has a lot of the indicators but no confirmation of the authenticity yet.

Great info has been already been given. The thin front axle was a recall item as well. Collard spindles were used until 10K serial (I think I have the exact number around here some place) The battery tie down strap is different as well.

Post pics if you have any questions.

The one I'm looking at definitely has collard spindles, small S/G bracket and thin front axle. I can't confirm anything else at this point. The tractor itself is a bit rough.

Trying to figure out if it is worth the trip to look at.

The foot pads on really early ones are solid instead of hole punched.

The foot rest where solid but I never say one or seen a actual picture of them on a tractor. I have seen them in brochures pre production. But I dont think they ever came out with them.

Also on the thin front axle if you have a thick one and thin one next to each other is the only way you can tell if it's a thin axle.

Also the later O's had a round or oval hole for creeper but it had to be elongated for the creeper.

Alos the rear wheels where different for early O's

The early ones have screws attaching the the wires for the key switch instead of spade connectors.

Another good clue.