My 871 Options (so far)

Trying to best understand a logical and practical approach to my 871 transmission journey.

Seems like, after talking to a SOS rebuilder and parts supplier, that my options are expensive no matter what direction I decide to go.

1. $4,000.00 Top of the line rebuilt SOS with DDC. Everything rebuilt, replaced etc.

2. $3,100.00 - Ship my transmission for a DDC conversion (parts, labor but not the unforeseen needs such as band replacements, seals etc.) Including approximately 600.00 round trip shipping.

3. $1,400.00+ Four Speed conversion. Parts not including transmission and shipping.

4. Continue with intermittent ORC issues. Primarily FEL work and grading. My income is not dependent on this tractor.

5. Try to find a later used SOS transmission and take the risk. Install myself.

6. Purchase a Direct Drive Clutch, take my time and make the conversion myself as a winter project in the shop. Experts: Is this do-able for a guy that has never rebuilt a hydraulic transmission or automatic? I have basic tools for antique truck restorations.

(I don't have the money for a $3100.00 or $4,000.00 rebuild).

Thoughts?
 
Is there sentimental value attached to this tractor?

As noted in another thread, you could buy another tractor (which is guaranteed to have its own challenges) and cut your losses on the 871.

If the 871 is otherwise in excellent condition (power steering? tires? front end? fresh engine?), with a good working SOS it's the best tractor of its generation. If you have a shop, an adequate set of tools (not many special tools are required) and mechanical skills, with the guidance of the I&T manual you can disassemble and reassemble a SOS transmission. Parts are scarce and tend to be expensive, but in all likelihood you can scare up what is needed. It is unlikely complete disassembly is necessary, so if it ain't broke don't fix it.

I did one back in the '90's - partial disassembly to replace a planetary and refreshed the clutch packs. I still use the tractor today (981). It's a better tractor than the 5 speeds.
 
Option 8: Start buying up all of the local 58-64 SOS tractors for parts and learn the SOS. Many/most SOS tractors can be had for a song.

Admittedly, this option is only viable for some.

Still, it remains an option.

Dean
 
Where are you? I have a friend in the upper part of NC that had the whole back end of a 861 he was willing to sell.
Ron
 
He sold the 5speed. He said he should have a four speed. If interested email me and I will give you his #
Ron
 
MM, I just saw this 661 5 speed on fleabay in Iowa:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/ORIGINAL-FORD-660-860-961-TRACTOR-5-SPEED-TRANSMISSION-2000-661-861-4000/392262992952?hash=item5b54b24438:g:azoAAOSwbh9cklLN
Price seems good but shipping could break the bank!
 
That didn't work, so try going to fleabay & enter:
ORIGINAL FORD 660-860-961 TRACTOR 5-SPEED TRANSMISSION 2000-661-861-4000
There are 2 options there.
 

We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today.

Back
Top