Massey Ferguson 135

I want to buy a Massey Ferguson 135 diesel, from what I understand they were manufactured from 1965-1975. Is there a model year that is to be perferred, due to some advancements or improvements over the ten years that it was manufactured?

Click on the 'Massey' and the 'H.Ferguson' discussion sites on the bar above, you will get all the info you need about these things, I have a 1969, and yes there were different engines and options over the years, but those guys will give you the details.

They're all outstanding tractors! Late 1971 and later UK models had a stronger straight front axle and power steering option. I'm not sure what changes US models had over the years. UK models were made from 1965 till 1979. US models were released in 1964. The Perkins diesel engine is arguably the best engine ever put in a tractor! You won't go wrong with any 135 in decent condition, either gas or diesel. The diesel is the best of the best though. A 150 uses the same power train but has a stronger front axle. They were only made in the USA and aren't as common as 135's.

Early models were built with the 3X2 transmission, while the very latest were equipped with the 4X2 transmission.

The most desireable engine is the 3 cylinder Perkins AD152.

If equipped with multi power, verify that it functions properly when FULLY up to operating temperature.

Dean

Some will say that the US models are more desireable due to parts availability. They can be identified as having the medallion back by the dash instead of on the front nosecone. Years ago that was much more true than now with the internet. I would still opt for the US but would not turn down a UK model if the money was right. You can't go wrong with a 135.

Aaron

Only a few dollars more than an 8N. Safer plus more versatile and useful.

I grew up on a 1965 135 diesel with the multipower and power shift rear wheels. I loved that tractor, but it did have its problems. One is a tricky 2 stage clutch....seemed to never fully disengage and it ground gears alot. Another problem was grabby brakes....my brother found out how they worked (not)! We also had a persistent leak around the fuel filter...dealer couldn't even figure it out. Other than that, it would run forever on a tank of fuel, and do close to 30mph with oversized tires! Ours had the lights on the fenders, I think that made it look sharp compared to those up by the front grill.

There were more UK models made than US models. All the UK models were diesel and parts are just as easy to get. There might be the odd little part you can't get but with the Heritage parts, I think you can get almost everything. The only thing I couldn't get about 10 years ago was the bushing for the bolt in the 3 pt. arm. US models just use a bolt. An MF mechanic told me the UK models are built a little better than the US models. They have a higher compression ratio according to spec sheets for both.

I've heard stories relating how US or UK models were better. I've owned both and DO NOT see any advantage to either. They're slightly different, but I sure don't see one as better than the other.

Anyone having clutch trouble needs to learn how to ADJUST the clutch. In proper adjustement, they shift as cleanly as ANY non syncro-ed tranny. Same applies to brakes. They work fine so long as they're kept in adjustment and replaced when worn out.

As far as "better" models; I'd tend to look for a later model (69 thru 74) diesel, with alternator, 8-speed tranny option (which means NO MultiPower)

Unless you want a stripped down model, avoid the early production option of the 135"custom". (From what I know, maybe only a US production model???) That didn't have 2-stage clutch, sparse lighting and gauges (if at all) pan seat, no power steering, and of course, no MultiPower. Very low percentage of 135's were so equipped.

Power steering is not 100% crucial, but I wouldn't buy a tractor WITHOUT it. Why just "get by"?

I've owned a MF150 (diesel, 8-speed) since new (in 1971) It's essentially the same power train as a 135, only with a much stouter front axle, steering, cooling system, larger fuel tank, slightly longer wheel base, and just a tick more weight. The 150 is everything good about the 135 and a lot more. I'd HIGHLY recommend the 150 if one can be found. (They're NOT that uncommon) Back when the 100 series was introduced and then tested at Univ of Nebraska, the 150 was the most fuel efficient tractor built. Results were a good bit better than a standard 135.