These were widely sold from 1965 until about 1972. I have a 1968 model. In early 1968, the rear steering axle was beefed up and redesigned a bit over the older MM type. NI found they needed this for big silage and hopper wagons and some guys were trying to flex the rear ends too much and snapping them off. Mine and the one you are looking at should have the GM 292 motor, a fairly reliable, but can be thirsty engine. It proved to be a worthy engine in farm equipment, as I believe the F Gleaner used it too. You should be able to find a serial number plate with lot # under the platform (cab). This can help tell you what year it is.For their time, they could do a lot of work. The belt variable speed needs to be kept adjusted according to the manual. Splines and hubs kept greased regularly. I have heard guys say when the splines get worn, things can be troublesome. Mine thankfully is not to that point yet. If trying to pull a big wagon, the variable speed takes a beating, along with steep hills. What attachment does the one you are looking at have? Mine has a 737 huking bed.Right now it is in the barn and the husking bed will have to be taken off to get at a hydraulic leak next to the frame. Can't quite stand on my head to get in there. I must mention many of these caught on fire due to trash accumulating around the engine. Cleaning this off periodically is a must along with the fire extinguisher handy too. A friend of mine this fall had a 705 (newer, diesel) catch on a fire with a 729 sheller and corn head. Not pretty. I like mine, but they are not something you will take to the field and work the heart out of it. Others may chime in here on this. Let us know what other questions you have.I am about 35 miles from where these old rigs were made and there are still a bunch of these picking and chopping around here.
|