730 diesel value

MNfarmer

Member
I know these types of posts are difficult to answer but I'm just looking for a ballpark figure. The tractor is a 730 diesel with a pony, adjustable wide front end, and a 46 loader. The pony hasn't ran in years, the tires are holding air, and he wasn't sure when the main engine ran last. The sheet metal is all there and in decent condition. He told me to make him an offer, but with it being such a gamble I'm looking for a little help on what to offer.
 
Mnfarmer...I would not make an offer until you hear the diesel engine run. Should be able to pull start it to check it out for engine noises and how the transmission sounds (especially 3rd gear). The two cylinder diesels have a common problem of loose flywheels, ruining the flywheel and crankshaft (expensive fix). If it is loose it will make a lot of noise that sounds like it is coming from the clutch side and the noise will change if the clutch is engaged or disengaged. Most likely the pony engine will run, but plan on replacing the entire coil box($400) and cleaning the carburetor. Is the wide front a factory square tube w/o any noticeable repair welds and good, tight tie rod ends? Does it have a 3 point assembly on it? These are the main items that help determine it's value. IMHO if the flywheel is loose or the transmission is noisy....walk away. Look for a 730 diesel w/o those expensive problems. If the diesel engine runs good, wide front is factory and it has a complete 3 pt., should be worth at least $5500. Posting a pic would help.
 
Non-running with questionable tires makes it a parts tractor - $2,000 in my mind and add $500 for the 50 to 60 year old loader with a hydraulic bucket.

Set aside another $10,000 to restore a two cylinder JD diesel tractor, they are not cheap to repair.

For your own peace of mind, determine the price where you will actually be indifferent whether the seller accepts your offer or not.
 
Several yrs ago I sold a similar 730 D, pony start, sq wide front, full 3pt hitch, decent but not new tires, very good sheet metal, flat top fenders. Both engines were non-operating & it had no $1500-$2000 frt end loader. It brought $4K. I think used 2 cylinder tractor prices appear higher today than back then. Location of tractor has a large influence on price.

This post was edited by Tx Jim on 05/03/2023 at 04:50 am.
 
Thanks! I had thought about pull starting it and will try to do so before we go any farther. It has the square tube front axle that looks like it's in pretty good shape. The 3 pt has been taken off and I don't know if it's even still around. Thanks again for the tips.
 
Thanks Jim.
The loader didn't look bad but it has no bucket or anything on it. It has the square wide front but the 3 pt has been
removed. The tractor is in central MN and has been sitting outside for a few years now.
 
2 cylinder 30 series row crops are still bringing a premium at least here. If it were in my backyard I would guess at least 5,000 dollars the way it sets if the seller entertained offers ahead of making a decision.
 
Possible it never had a 3 point. Very few 2 cylinder Deere's around here ever had a 3 point. Not something desireable with very littly use for one.
 
I talked to the owner again and he said he wanted $1500. At that price I think I'll take a chance on it. Thanks everyone!
 
A 730 is just the right height for someone to work on without much bending around to get to things. Good luck if you get it............
 

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