Deciding on a Ford Tractor....which model

I am not finding as much a difference in price as I would have thought, so would like opinions.

Will be using it for general pupose mowing, post hole digging,gravel road maintenance, maybe front loader down the road, but maybe not.

Pros/cons....opinions?

For post hole digging, you absolutely want something with live hydraulics. (Believe me, backing an auger out of wet clay with a pipe wrench is no fun!) Live PTO is very desirable, also, both for mowing and post hole digging.

It seemed reasonable to reject the older hundred series and pick up a sweet 3000 dsl. It easily handles most all of the reasonable chores. In retrospect many of the earlier series would have forced unwanted compromises into the tractors versatility and usefulness. No regrets here.

As for the Jubilee--great little tractor..(4spd tranny...134 CU "Red Tiger" engine..live hydraulics...some even have a hand clutch to act as live PTO..Except for the hand clutch..not much different than 640..(1955-58)BTW..not good for loaders...(tractor is too light)

The 601's..1958-1962)..you need to state which model you are talking about. ex: 641/661..Each model will have different options..one might be "live pto" (its a good thing)..or a 671 will have the Selecto-Speed Tranny (kinda fragile and difficult to find parts for)..BTW..not good for loaders...(tractor is too light)

The 800's--(1955-1958)...801's--(1958-1962)..Once again you need to see which model it is you are looking at...Some have the live-pto..some dont...Personally...an 860/1 would be my choice..b/c of the 5spd tranny and the live-pto...but be careful..b/c some models such as the 870/1 will have the Selecto-Speed Tranny...

I am not as knowledgeable on the 3000's and 4000's...but here is a great site to look at and help you determine the best tractor for your needs....

HTH
Tommy

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