 The 285 is a low-profile, sitting-on-the-transmission type, where the 1085 is on a raised platform and normally has a cab. 95% of the 285's are open station. For our 285, my dad bought a weather break for it back when it was new, they were made by Femco who are still in business and we bought one from them for our 1855 Oliver this past year. They work quite well to bring the heat up to the operator. We had a non-quick-tach loader on our Ollie 1755 which was our big tractor at the time before the engine blew. To take the loader arms off, I would pull the top pins for the arms, then extend the cylinders out enough to brace the arms on top. Then all that you have to do is pull the pins for the cylinders and disconnect the hoses. After you do it a few times, you can do it as fast as a quick-tach style loader. Only problem w/ having a loader on the big tractor, is that it's tied down loading the manure spreader instead of being on the plow turning it under right away. The loader never caused problems otherwise. Our 285 pulled 3-16's in heavy clay, could probably do 4-18's in lighter sandy soil. We also ran a 1-row fox chopper on it for years until about 5-7 years ago, until we got the 1755 and now the 1855. Got a 2-row Fox shortly after (1000 rpm pto) We use it on the 4-row planter also. Could definatley pull a 6-row, probably an 8-row. The gearing might be a little high for a snowblower on the rear, but should be fine in most conditions. We've never used a snowblower, just the loader and/or a blade. I've noticed most Massey's still bring a strong price. Our 285 w/ a slobbering but still strong running 318 perkins and rougher paint could probably fetch $6-8,000 at the right auction. Lots of them do have loaders around here. Lots of makes will fit.
Donovan from Wisconsin
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