Re: I need some help!

Posted by John D. Lewis on June 12, 2000 at 13:19:26 from (208.22.43.137):

In Reply to: I need some help! posted by Josh Ratliff on January 24, 1999 at 16:53:08:

Josh,

Please keep in mind that most of the information is based upon many of my experiences and opinions.

I'm not an expert by no means, just an enthusiast. I restore and repair International Harvester (Farmall) tractors in my spare time and research many of them for fun.

First, it's good to hear that you're farming... seems that farmers are a dying breed, at least in my area, they are. I'm 18 myself, and my father and I are seriously considering the purchase of an IH 1468. I've fallen in love with these tractors since I've first discovered them. I found one which was overhauled and restored to original condition. My father and I would love to purchase it and keep it around as a show piece and/or a very light duty work horse.

From what I have heard and read, the '68 series engines aren't all that great. I tend to agree to an extent, but I have a slight dispute over that statement, though. People expect a large engine like the DV-550/V8 to be the biggest and strongest work horse around. From what I understand from various sources, the DV-550/V8 engine was designed for IH trucks, but someone had the idea of putting an the engine into an IH tractor. Sure, that's actually not a bad idea, but most people do not realize the originally intended application of the DV-550/V8. Most people do not tend to consider such when thy use '68 series tractors. Personally, I think the '68 series tractors should be kept specifically for show or possibly very light duty.

What about price? Well, if it's in bad condition, most of them are parted out for other '68 series engines. Nobody wants a '68 series that they that doesn't operate and can't get replacement parts for. Now, if it's in good condition and restored, then expect on paying a high price. I've seen IH 1468 tractors range from $4,000.00 to $15,000.00. If you intend to purchase one, do your homework and check everything. Ask a lot of questions.

The IH 1468 tractor was designed almost exactly like the IH 1466 with the exception of a different engine. The IH 1468 had a sixteen speed transmission, and if I am correct, an engine capable of 160 horsepower.

The IH 1568 was basically the same as an IH 1468 but geared lower for power with a twelve speed transmission.

I am not sure if International Harvester ever produced a '68 series tractor with the 'black stripe' or not, but I doubt it. If they did, they probably carry a higher value than the standard '68 series. If they were in fact produced with a 'black stripe', I'd like to have one.

If you find and purchase IH 1468 or 1568, take the time to repair and restore (if needed) and give it a nice home to live in. The '68 series tractors are very rare. They're nice machines, but need tender loving care. Be sure to take it out and drive it now and then to let it know that you love it.

I agree with Harold, purchase a '66 or '86 series tractor for farm work. One of my personal favorites is the IH 966, capable of 105 horsepower, almost identical to the IH 1066, but without the turbocharged engine.

I have no problems with an IH 1066, with the exception that they're turbocharged engines. Now, having a turbocharged engine isn't bad, but if you abuse the engine and 'blow out' the turbo, then it's very costly to replace.

I haven't seen an IH 1066, 1466 or 1566 that can't do anything an IH 966 or 766 can't do.

The '86 series tractors are designed around the '66 series, except they were produced in different years and the controls and seat were moved forward approximately 18 inches. The engines are the same, I think, and a few other changes were made. However, they're pretty much the same tractor.

The '86 series are similar to the '66 series but with a few minor fixes and changes. The cab, controls, and seat were moved 18 inches forward, which aided in better visibility. The IH 986, 1086, 1486 and 1586 are similar to their '66 series counterparts. The IH 886 is very similar to the IH 766, and the IH 786 is an IH 886 but 'watered down' and has basically no cab, just a rollbar/ROPS enclosure. The IH 686 is very similar to the IH 666, but with some different design to it. The IH 686 was the smallest '86 series ever made and are in popular demand. They're very rugged and handle a lot of 'abuse', and they're not too small and not too large. They're good for small farmers who need a good work horse. My father and I own an IH 686 and love it. It only has 3,400 original hours and has been restored. I have a feeling that we'll be giving it up for an IH 1468. If you need a good, reasonably sized tractor, something like an IH 686 would be perfect.

I love the '66 series tractors, try to find one without the original white cab, like a 'fender' tractor. They're easier to see out of. The white cab tractors are very nice, don't get me wrong, but your visibility is cut - especially if you're a shorter individual.

Happy farming!

Sincerely,

John D. Lewis
jdlewis@electrosity.com

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