IH stuff,

It doesnt matter if its an AC, MF, IH, JD, FNH, These tractors are 30 to 60 years old. The rear end going out could be the result of bearing failure or whatnot. A bearing going out after 50 years is not unheard of (compared to these new permeantly lubricated bearings like in motors, haha, what a joke). On machines this old, u have to expect some sort of breakdown eventually. Sure certain ones have had their issues, but at least by now it is WELL known and can be talked about and addressed and looked at before buying. All the other brands have had issues as well.

My reasoning for disliking JD are not for quality per say. sure their new stuff is probably as junky as the new nH, and whatnot, but that is the way of the world now, cheap planned obselescence (SP?). I dont like JD because a flipping JD baseball cap is 17$ There parts are outrageously priced and everyone who likes deere wouldnt even consider anything else and they think their deere is the best even if it's not. They tend to be arrogant, at least the ones I know.

If you are concerned about a certain models weaknesses, ask and these guys outta be able to give you some ideas, fixes, reassurances. I'm sure if you were looking at old deeres and asked over in the deere forum, they'd say, "Problems?, Not with a deere!!" HAHA

If the fact that these machines have withstood the test of time to the point where they are simply wearing out is a testament to the quality of the machine, not an inherent problem with the machine.

Of course you are going to find Red fans on this list so take the opinions for what their worth. I've got a neighbor that drives green and loves 'em. Grandad was a mechanic and he hated working on anything that wasn't red or orange.

My take on things? I like whatever is running and can work the field.

Mike