Depends upon what your objectives are, and what you're looking to do with it.
I have both a 240U and 340U with loaders, and know others with similar machines. They are extremely handy for many tasks that require lifting and moving materials. The 2 or 3 point hitch can be used for all sorts of things, such as a rear blade, or rake. Lifting capabilities of the loaders (IH and Wagner) that were designed to work with this series of IH utility tractors are approx 1500 lbs. Power steering, and a 1000 lb counterweight are a must.
That said, you have to remember these are basically farm tractors, and not construction machines. They do not excavate heavy materials well. The IH 2444,3141 and 3444 series are in that category, and were often sold with integral backhoes. They weigh several thousand pounds heavier than a 240/340.
If you're interested in restoring an older machine, they have many advantages, but also have limitations. If you're looking at heavy construction, they aren't going to cut it, and a Case 580 series type backhoe may be more appropriate.
Buying a used skidsteer, from the experience of folks I know, can be a crap-shoot, as many construction companies use them with the philosophy they are a 3000 hour "throw-away".
We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today. [ About Us ]
Today's Featured Article - The 8N and the Fox - by Zane Sherman. Dec. 13 1998, Renfroe, Alabama. Last niht I dreamed about the day that I plowed the field of about 10 acres over on what Jimmy and Dandy called the Ledbetter field. I was driving the 1948 8N Ford tractor that Jimmy bought in 48 new This was prebably in about 1951 and maybe even befor the house was built. This would have made me to be about16 years old and I drove the tractor for nothing and would have paid to drive it if I had had any money which I didn't, but neit
... [Read Article]
Latest Ad:
Sell 1958 Hi-Altitude Massey Fergerson tractor, original condition. three point hitch pto engine, Runs well, photos available upon request
[More Ads]
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any part of this website, including design and content, without written permission is strictly prohibited. Trade Marks and Trade Names contained and used in this Website are those of others, and are used in this Website in a descriptive sense to refer to the products of others. Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy
TRADEMARK DISCLAIMER: Tradenames and Trademarks referred to within Yesterday's Tractor Co. products and within the Yesterday's Tractor Co. websites are the property of their respective trademark holders. None of these trademark holders are affiliated with Yesterday's Tractor Co., our products, or our website nor are we sponsored by them. John Deere and its logos are the registered trademarks of the John Deere Corporation. Agco, Agco Allis, White, Massey Ferguson and their logos are the registered trademarks of AGCO Corporation. Case, Case-IH, Farmall, International Harvester, New Holland and their logos are registered trademarks of CNH Global N.V.