Re: Tractor Restorations

Posted by Paul in Mich on August 22, 2004 at 15:23:51 from (66.188.26.29):

In Reply to: Tractor Restorations posted by Kent Petty on August 22, 2004 at 08:49:16:

Kent, You don't state your age, and while age isnt that important in the grand scheme of things, age equals experience to some degree. I don't know what level of experience you have for this sort of thing, but its not unreasonable even with limited experience to do most of your own restoration. The biggest component in any restoration is time, and if you have to pay to have your work done, then you certainly will be paying someone else to do a lot of things that you can well do yourself. I'd dare say that a majority of the fellows here, former farmers or not do most if not all their own work in their restorations. The old iron is not so high tech that a person with limited knowledge or experience can't do it. Even rebuilding engines and drive train components can be done if you follow the manuals and ask for specific help on specific issues. I have found the folks here to be more than eager to help anyone who is trying to work on their tractors. The only time I hear or sense cynicism is when it is directed to those who want something done, but arent willing to work it out, in other words expect all the answers, but want to be lazy and have someone else do all the research. There is not much you cant do yourself if you exercise good judgement and patience. Owners manuuals, service manuals, and parts manuals offer a lot, even to the novice. Even painting techniques can be learned and you may be surprised at your results if only you try. I dont know what tools you have or what access you have to them, but it doesnt take mega thousands of dollars to acquire most of the tools necessary to work on your tractor. In addition, as a couple of others who responded to you said, nobody will care as much about your tractor as you do, and they will cut whatever corner necessary to make as much money as they can for whatever you are contracting them to do. They will never take the time to wire brush rust and built up paint from nuts and bolts, yet, many of the bolts, especially IH are obsolete, and unless you clean up what you have, you'll be forced to use hardware store bolts which arent the same as IH used raised dot bolts on so many of the older models. Simple things such as bolts can compromise your restoration. If you just want to get a tractor running and correctness is not an issue, then any bolt will do. The bottom line is dont be afraid to dive head first into a restoration, as it is tremendously rewarding when you finish. Far more than if someone else does it for you.

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