Posted by Rick Cook on February 25, 1998 at 23:09:30:
In Reply to: Re: John Deer Model "M" attachements posted by Donnie on February 24, 1998 at 16:42:13:
:
: : I was wondering if anyone out there has had any experience, good or bad,
: : with modifying the model "M"'s aft to accept standard 3pt attachements.
: : I have a 1951 model "M" that runs well and would like to make it more
: : useful. Is it worth the effort to modify or attempt to find existing
: : implements originally designed for the model "M". I was thinking allong
: : the lines of brushcutting, snow-blowing and garden cultivating.
: : Another question: This tractor came with a two furrow plow. Does anyone
: : know how to set it up right? I couldn't seem to get it to turn over the
: : sod properly.
: : And finally: Is there a way to tighten up the steering? The steering
: : wheel will turn about 1/3 around (120 deg) before the front wheels begin
: : to turn.
: : Thanks,
: : Rick
: Rick,
: A while back I could have wrote your letter as I had the same questions.
: As for adapting to a three point hitch, Central tractor has a kit for about $250 that has everything that you would need. A friend of mine did it but the M is so light it is hard to keep the front end down. I have heard of people changing over to 3 point and welding pins on the original horizontal part of your hitch that would still allow you to use the original M attachments.
: As for the 2 bottom plow, I also have one. It is a John Deere M2A Integral Moldboard Plow. You can still get an Operator's Manual (OM-A11-1181) for $ 9.50? call 1-800-522-7448 which is the John Deere Service Distribution Center. They have all manuals (operators, parts, shop, etc.) for the M.
: Finally, I haven't done it yet as you will need to remove the radiator to take the front steering assembly apart. I have been told that there are two (3/8") pressed in pins which line up in the helical grooves of the steering gear. As these pins wear, thats where the "slop" develops. You can either replace these or turn them 90 degrees which should tighten steering considerably.
: If you're going to mess with John Deeres suggest you check out http://www.cnweb.com/green which is the Green Magazine devoted solely to John Deeres.
: Good Luck!
Many thanks for your how to answer. I intend to get right on it and call about the plow manual.
Re: the hitch, How would I get a hold of Central Tractor and is their hitch similar to the one at Worksaver?
As for weight, I couldn't see how anyone could call mine light. Wheel weights front and back, and the tires are liquid filled for added weight. Never had a problem with keeping the front down when plowing last year, in fact almost buried the back wheels and the front never left the ground. Mind you the seating position on the "M" always makes me feel like it is going to flip over backwards. Hate the thought of replacing those tires (soon unfortunately) because they will be so heavy to remove and the stud nuts are covered in several coats of paint.
Thanks,
Rick