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Aaron Ford
02-19-2006 18:02:13
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Re: MH/MF 50? in reply to Kevin, 02-18-2006 11:58:17
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While anything is possible, the only way to find out is to look at the data tag. These tractors were built from 1955 to 1964. In 1955, they were sold as Massey Harris's. In 1956, they were sold as Massey Harris's and Massey Fergusons. In 1957, the Massey Harris name was phased out and they were sold as Massey Fergusons only. In 1958, the hood was rounded out. All a fluted hood means is that it is prior to 1958. To make it more confusing, the serial numbers were overlaid such that a 500001 was a Massey Harris in 1955, but the MF's started 500001 in 1956. Both started the 1957 model year with 510764. I'm sure that is more than a coincidence. A Massey Harris data tag is supposed to be on the Left rear tractor frame forward of transmission case, but I have personally seen them in the exact location of a MF, on the instrument panel. In this case, the tag did read Massey Harris. Massey Harris also posted a lower HP at 23.75 to a MF's 28.44. This is odd since they were visually identical and used the same motor. To see if it is a high clearance or not, look at the front axle. If it protrudes above the tire, then it is a high clearance. If not, then it is a standard chassis. I suspect if you look into this tractor you will find a data tag that reads CGM 510764-515708 or such. I suspect it is a 1957 MF due to the fact that 5000 of them were built that year. Not terribly rare, but worth 3-4K in working condition. Extremely easy to get parts for and easy to restore/repair. The only item of note is that they do like to grease the brakes if not properly sealed and the release fingers on the clutch are weak on some models (kinda rare, but it does happen). The MH/MF 50 is an extremely reliable (and good looking) tractor. I am currently redoing a MF 65 but will do a 50 when time, finances and the old lady allow.
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