Here's what I would ask on the phone before making the trip:
1. You say it's a 601. Can you tell me which model 601 it is?If the seller can't answer that or repeats that it's a 601, then he doesn't know about the different models. So you get a little more specific: 2. Does it have a 4 speed or 5 speed trans? 3. (If he says 4 speed): Does it have a tach (proofmeter)? Does it have a pto? Does it have a 3 point hitch? 4. (If he says 5 speed): Does it have a dual clutch (live pto)? 5. Is it gas or diesel? 6. Do you know the serial number? 7. Is it 6 volt or 12 volt? Beyond that, the normal questions should be asked, like: does it run good, does the 3 point hitch work, how long after you shut it off does it stay up, does it have lights, do they work, does the proofmeter work, do the brakes work, where does it leak, etc etc. You'll get the predictable answers "runs good, no problems, etc etc". Getting answers to the first questions and comparing them to the Vintage Ford Tractor Resource serial and model number page should help you ID what it is he's selling. Then you need to decide if that's what you're looking for. Example: if you need to use it a lot where live pto would be a big advantage, and this turns out to be a 641, you might want to keep looking. Now, supposing this still sounds like it could be the one you want, go see it. Go armed with a compression tester, spark plug wrench, wire brush, rags, spray degreaser (I like carb cleaner). That way you can do a compression test and verify the serial number/model number. The link below is to a FAQ page on 8N's. Click on the one that says "buying an 8N". There are some good tips on checking out a used tractor whether it's an 8N or not. Some items to watch for that are not covered there would be evidence of major parts swapping. Example, if all the clues say it's a 661 (dual clutch, live pto) yet when you get there the numbers on the transmission say it's a 961-D, then you know it's had a transmission replaced with a junkyard unit. If the hood decal says "601 Workmaster SOS" and it has a 4 or 5 speed transmission, then you know the SOS tranny died and he had it converted to a manual trans. Do any of these make it a bad tractor? Not necessarily. Also, if it's been converted to 12 volts you might want to pay particular attention to the wiring and the conversion in general. Any dangling wires? Splices done with wirenuts and tape? Well I've gone on way too long. Good luck with it.
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