My new MF 135

I didn"t set out specifically to buy that tractor. I"d had a new Chinese import compact tractor to do my paddock work with, and it got stolen; which was when I thought that perhaps I"d spend the insurance money on an old classic rather than a new piece of plastic. (Call me old fashioned, but I always feel more comfortable with a vehicle made out of metal).

So I found a dealer that looked reliable (I"m no mechanic, but I"ve known a fair few, and I reckon I know a good mechanics workshop from a bad mechanic"s workshop when I see it; and this looked like a good mechanic"s workshop).

Of all the tractors there, it was the 135 which spoke to me. It looked like the tractor for the job. I tried it out and it felt like the tractor for the job. And the more I read about the 135 the more I think I chose a good little tractor.

It"s not going to work all that hard. We"ve got 8 acres to look after, and it"s going to have to work a 6" topper and draw a chain harrow and a roller and a sprayer. Nothing too exacting.

But do any of you guys want to offer any words of wisdom to help me on my way? Things you wish someone had told you when you got your first tractor? Things to look out for or be wary of? It"s all rather exciting - but also a bit daunting.

Also, can anyone tell me when the 135 was first made? This one has a UK registration plate consisting of two letters and three digits. I think that places it in thelate "50s or early "60s; but I"m not quite sure. Again, anyone knwo anything about what that means, age-wise?

She will handle everything youre doing with it and much much more with no problems at all.

weve had ours about 4 years. I know it took some real abuse before we got it. And its had its fair share of overloads since we had it. That tractor has dragged some serious weight and never complains. And carried some weight as well on the loader!

To begin with you wont be able to change gear on it on the move. I now have the hang of it, but it takes a while. its probably better just to start in the gear you want to be in.

do you know how the dual stage clutch works? if not, ask someone on here. They will explain it to you.

Change the oil in the backend if it hasnt already been done. and if the "boots" around the gear shifters atre cracked change then. there very cheap bits of rubber but they will save some very expensive oil from getting water in it. found that out the hard way. twice!

that tractor will go on and on, and you will probably sell it for the same amount you paid if not more. especially if its 3 cylinder Perkins diesel.

Enjoy the fun times ahead of you!

Ben

The first 135's came on the market around mid/late 1964. The usual form of UK registration at that time was something like 'ABC 123B' 'A' was used from the beginning of August 1962 to end of July 1963. 'B' from August 63 to July 64 and so on. I do not recognise your number as being from the UK. I am not sure about Northern or Southern Ireland.
Your tractor cannot be any older than 1964. PLease come back if you need any help or tips however small.
Regards
David P