|
Hi Bryan... Just about anything in the post-war era up to the first half of the fifties in the 20-35 Hp range will be a nominally equal choice as far as ease and cost. A solid running tractor can be had for $1000 to $2000 depending upon condition, maybe even a little more if overhauled, new tires, etc. and less if not running. Transportation is expensive, so find one close to home (about $50+$1/mile total miles both ways). As to what additional costs there are depends upon what your goals are. A mechanical restoration using your own labor might be $500 to $800 in parts, more if something big is broken (e.g., like castings). Others here (CNKS, ...) are more qualified to answer about paint, but mine will probably be about another $1000 with me doing most of the prep. and others spraying it with good urethane paint materials. (Go to the paint and body work forum for advice) New tires all around will be about $1000, so I am figuring about $4000-$5000 parade ready including the cost of the tractor (and I could only sell it for about $3500)... YOu might be happy with lesser, and you could buy one completed for about the same if you could settle for as-is unknown quality... I am a perfectionist and a control freak so I do it all myself to the extent I have the facilities. It probably makes more sense (at least to me) to choose something that you are interested in (from your past) or are attracted to. What did your Grandfather have? Farmall H, M ; John Deere B, A; Ford 2N, 9N, 8N are probably the most popular choices but I am doing a Ferguson TO-30, and there are many others of all colors. If brand is not important, look at what color and style you are attracted to. And where are you going to keep it? And will you use it? The higher row-crop tractors will stand tall and have vertical mufflers that will have to be removed to get the tractor in the average garage; this might be an issue... I'd avoid all distillate (dual fuel),LP gas and diesels for odor, cost and safety reasons unless your heart is set on one. The small standard (wide front end) tractors work well with finish mowers and they all can pull a wagon for a parade or hayride. Good Luck and keep in touch... there are lots of people out there (all brands) that love to help.. it is their(our)hobby already! And don't forget about tools... but the average shade tree mechanic should have about all that is needed. These are simple machines. Jim PS Here is my summary(1-3 complete, 3-6 estimated)
1-Tractor ugly running TO-30 $1450
2-Overhaul parts $700
3-Machine Shop (mostly engine) $300
4-Paint Prep materials $100
5-Prof. Paint and application $900
6-Tires and rims all around $1100
|
