What to look for in a used tractor?

MowerTom · #1 03-28-2011, 08:43 AM

I will be going to look at this Cub sometimes this week. Any thing I should look at in the way of the engine, frame electrical systems? I can do a lot of basic work on it but would like to have a handle on things to look for before I go out to see it.

http://houston.craigslist.org/grd/2276244417.html Link posted for informational purposes only.

Thanks
Tom

Tractor2nv · #2 03-28-2011, 09:26 AM

Wow!! Sweet looking 102 W/rear lift,one of a kind rubber seat made by Ohio Rubber Co for the 102. I see no molestations,just missing the clutch cover...so I would start there and look for major wear,disc,plates,springs,3 pin driver and bearing. He says it runs so listen for knocks and watch for excessive smoke. Check throttle on carb for a lot of play. Trace the wire harness from regulator on back to the dash. With all the goods that go with the machine I would say it's a fine candidate to get started with!! First yr.made is 1965. Good luck!

MowerTom · #3 03-28-2011, 01:38 PM

Tractor2nv
Thank you Sir for your help. I'll give it a good once over and then most likely buy it. I have a LTX1050 that I currently use to mow about 3 acres of fields but have to haul it about 130 miles from my house to the farm. I am thinking of leaving the "real" tractor at the farm and just using it there. With the 3 point hitch can it handle a small blade or tiller?
Tom

Mlamar · #4 03-28-2011, 02:34 PM

When buying any garden tractor the first thing I do is make sure that the transmission shifts correctly and that it runs the way it should in each gear. Looks like a nice one

And remember to have fun with it.

MowerTom · #5 03-28-2011, 07:05 PM

Thanks for the info and help here. I spoke with my personal banker (my Bride) today and I now have the approval to purchase the Cub if all checks out.
Tom

Tractor2nv · #6 03-28-2011, 08:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MowerTom

Tractor2nv
Thank you Sir for your help. I'll give it a good once over and then most likely buy it. I have a LTX1050 that I currently use to mow about 3 acres of fields but have to haul it about 130 miles from my house to the farm. I am thinking of leaving the "real" tractor at the farm and just using it there. With the 3 point hitch can it handle a small blade or tiller?
Tom

Blade yes, tiller would work best if the tractor had a creeper gear and spring assist for the lift. Mowing 3 acres with it at the farm could be a little too much for the 45 + - year old machine and not use to riding on a pan rubber seat with no back rest..."ouch my back"!

zippy1 · #7 03-28-2011, 09:36 PM

Don't let the (I want it factor) sway your decision. In other words just because it's something you think you just have to have, don't overlook the bad things that could be wrong with it.
Speeking from experience here

Then once it's home and you have it to look at for awile, you start to ask yourself, what was I thinking.

MowerTom · #8 03-28-2011, 09:57 PM

Went out and looked at the 102, The frame and body are in pretty good shape, paint looks original seat was killer, very clean with no tears in it. Engine smoked at start up and puffed a little to much for my liking but sounded good. All the parts were there along with the manuals, full gasket set and replacement decals. As I have a restoration going on on one of my Harley's I think I better pass on this one. One project at a time.
Thanks for all the info.

Tom