830 update

We have a diesel 830 CK, with case-o-matic. We needed (at least) the top end of the engine, along with misc gauges, a rear tire, etc. to get that tractor going.

We decided to purchase another 830, and use our original 830 for parts. About a week and a half ago, it was delivered to a friend of ours, who is helping us (more like we are helping him a little) get it going.

The seller told us that this 830 we just purchased "probably had a cracked head and the case-o-matic went out on it", as it could hardly pull itself. So, we didn't think it would take a huge effort to repair or replace a head, and fix the COM. Boy, were we ever taken...

On this "new" tractor, 3 of 4 sleeves were cracked. Some 20 years ago, the tractor was overhauled, and wasn't put back together properly. I heard through the grapevine (after we had it apart, of course) that this 830 dyno'ed at 40 HP right after the overhaul, and has never run right over the past 20 years. The COM clutch was assembled improperly (that's why the tractor couldn't pull itself). The tractor was run hot, and run hot a LOT. Now, after cutting the sleeve counterbores, our friend found that three of the 4 counterbores are cracked.

So...the heads may be salvageable (still at the machine shop). We may end up using the block out out original 830, as I think it's in good shape. We also are using the COM pump, the front end, and a couple of other parts from the original 830. In hindsight, it may have been better to have used this "better" tractor as a donor to our original 830!

So, I guess that we were taken big time, but oh well... we are now in the process of getting parts ready to sell, such as the grille, hood, side panels, etc. Let me know if you want anything. A lot of parts on the 830 we had originally are in really good shape, as it turns out.

One thing I was told by the guy at one of the machine shops: restorers are usually interested in just getting a project done to look good, rather than taking the time and effort to do it right.

I guess that's not me, as one look at our SC will quickly tell. She doesn't look too good, but she purrs like a kitten.

The only reason I posted the update on our project was that some folks were interested. I certainly didn't intend to stir up any trouble. If that's what is going to happen, then I guess I shouldn't post any more.

Oh well...

So...now that that issue is out of the way, I totally agree with you on the sleeping at night thing. I sure couln't either. But I guess that's you and me, and probably most other guys on this forum. Obviously it isn't everyone, though...

On the brighter side, at least we have the "donor" tractor to get most parts from. Let's see...so far we are up to the entire front end (I knew that going into this deal, though), the engine block, the COM pump, the seat, the....

As a side note, I did learn a huge amount re: what can be done to a block that has cracks such as this block has. It was very educational.

We will be using new sleeves and the original pistons, as they were in good shape. I think I'm going to sell the pistons and sleeves from the donor tractor, as they are oversized, and I don't need any HP increase. The standard 830 HP should be more than enough!

Stay tuned...

If there is anything else, just email me

[email protected]

I also need a cab for my 830 c/k case

please advise

This tractor will be used for work, like baling, haybining, etc. I suppose the kids will want to show it off in FFA stuff and such, which is fine. We really need it to be in good shape. I'll eventually do all the tin work, at least that's the plan. We all know what happens to the best-laid plans of mice and men.

That said, thing that really steams me is the dishonesty, but oh well. Life goes on...