Introduction and Best manual for MF 165

Hello Guys

I've recently come by a standard and original 1973/4 MF 165 with the A4-212 engine and wet brakes. The tractor has 4200 hours on the clock, runs nice and all the important bits function as they should - although the clutch is in need of adjustment. The 165 will be my main using tractor on my small holding (we sort of farm in conjunction/partnership with three neighbours, total acreage is a mighty 30). It'll join a 1951 Cat D2 in the shed.

I'm getting to grips with it (its quite different to the Fiats, David Browns and Zetors I grew up with), sorting out manuals and the like. I do my own mechanical work, although I am far from what might be called experienced, and am certainly not trained. I do have ready access to expert advice - although its usual to ask only after its "to late" !!

I see our sponsors here offer a shop manual, there are no details but I assume it is a copy of the original shop manual (355 pages . . . ??). There is also an I & T manual avaliable eleswhere, I haven't seen on specifically for the MF's but they didn't add much value for the other makes I've viewed. I have an operators manual coming locally.

So - which is the best shop manual out there for these machines, and do I need more than one . . .

Cheers - Foster
Southland, New Zealand

ITT manuals have pretty clear illustrations but they still lack a lot of info. I have the reprint Jensales manuals (MH-S-MF165) and (MH-S-65)Lots of info but illustrations are only fair. My 165 manual does not show the wet brakes. Before ordering a reprint (about $55.00) price out one from a dealer. I saw a post recently that said they were going for about $70.00

Hello,
Whilst there are other manuals around there is only one for me and that's the genuine MF one. As JTrunk has said check the price fom an MF dealer first, alternatively look on e-bay. Even buying one from the UK or the States might work out cheaper if its a cd but ensure that its a genuine one.
DavidP

Thanks Folks

Lots of good info here, David I saw an old post of yours on how to adjust the PTO clutch . . . got mine done this evening and its about 500% better, now functions like a clutch should !!

Cheers - Foster

Real MF manuals: 3 of them. Operator Manual, for all day to day how to stuff, capactities, tires, etc. Repair Manual, for how to really fix things right. Parts Manual to make sure you get the right parts the first time, and has the only really detailed exploded views essential for reassembly. All available from MF dealer. Tom

Hi Foster,
Glad to be able to help. Any more problems just drop us a line or three. My 165 is a 1974 as well. I'm about to start a restoration on it. Have a look on Tractor Photos. Do a search for 'MF 165 UK.' Its the one with my daughter sitting on it.

DavidP