501 Mower Question

I went back to the place that's going to sell all of those parts and tractors I posted about and talked to the man's grandson who I found out is setting the prices for stuff and they aren't going to move much at his prices. I did wind up buying a radiator and 4 tires. He has a Ford sickle mower I asked about but I got to wondering are parts available for those any more? From pictures I've seen it looks like maybe a 501 but not sure. What would one be worth not knowing if it works or not? He wants me to make him an offer but I don't have a clue. On the big round frame part under it that attaches to the lift arm has been welded. What do you guys think about it? He had a 6' gray bush hog he wanted $375.00 that you can see the shear bolt in the hole where it broke. I showed it to him and the 2 bars going from the 3 point back were broke and welded and a bolt missing where the gearbox mounts. I said someone hit something hard do you know it even works is the gear box good? He said he would check it. He said he had it sold for $375 but the guy backed out and found another one. I thought gee I wonder why? I'm going back tomorrow to get my tires. I have to take them off of the rims he thought those were gold plated spinners or something. I'd like to know more about the 501 to make an offer. Thanks for your help and I'll keep you all posted as to when they wake up and get right on the stuff.

I have used a 501 mower since 1980, when I bought it used. Never had a moments problem with it. When needed it got new teeth, which were easy to put in and new ledger plates in the guards. Others can say what they want, but that mower has given me excellent service at minimal expense. It is all in how you operate and treat the unit. My 501 runs off a 1980 2600 Ford diesel.

I used a 501 back in the 70's on a Ford 2000 and a MF 135, and it did good. Hitching it up to the tractor was always a little more involved than our other mower (a MF dyna-balance) because there are hinged arms along side the hitch pins that have to be clamped to the 3 point arms. You have to carry a crescent wrench to tighten up those clamps. I was told that they made different styles of those hinged arms for different tractors, so be aware that may be an issue.

Parts are ready available. Sold mine this spring for 225. most time you see them around here from 200-300 range. as long as I didn't let the grass get to hi it worked fine but taller grass seemed to clog it up to easy. used it on an 8n ford. mine had extra hole in the arm to bolt on the stabilizer arm.

In an earlier post you mentioned that this equipment was located outside Memphis. Wondering if it's close to me, I am in Somerville.