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Ferguson TO-30 Review



Overall Rating:
rating
 4.00
Build Quality:
4
Features:
rating
3
Performance:
rating
4
Value:
rating
5
Reliability:
rating
4


1953 Ferguson TO30 Gas Posted by Mallet on 08/15/2013

1. Build Quality: 4 stars because it is still running good and working pretty strong without any known major overhauls.

2. Features: 3 stars because FEL was not common for the early years and hydraulic 3pt hitch and PTO are nice features. Would have given it 4 stars if it had power steering or hydraulic tilt on the front bucket.

There is no draft control on the rear hydraulics either. I don't like the positive ground 6 volt electrical system, it's a bit confusing to me. I would have given 5 stars with an additional air conditioned cab, nice stereo, GPS tracking and a fuel gauge! Okay, some of that had not been invented yet.

3. Performance: 4 stars because at around 18-20 hp, considering the weight of the tractor, that's about all it can safely handle. The front hydraulics are strong enough to lift the back of the tractor off the ground with a 72" box scraper attached. I also bent the bucket lifting a barrel of steel bolts, straining the hydraulics to their max capacity. Lots of bucket rust could have been a factor too. The brakes do not stop the tractor very well. I need to really stand on them hard. They don't feel worn, just a bit inadequate when loaded down with implements (FEL, box scraper).

Value: My dad gave me the tractor. It does not get much better than that!

Reliability: I have not had any long term experience with the machine yet. But I had to give 4 stars because after sitting for 10 years (with fuel in the tank), no tune up, (old wires, plugs, distributor cap, etc...) all I did to get it running was to clean the fuel tank out , clean the fuel lines and carburetor, bought a new 6 volt battery, and she fired right up.

So far this summer I have replaced the worn tie rod ends, replaced the front wheels that were rusted through, new front AG tires, new settling bowl and filter for the fuel line, new ignition coil, new box scraper, new PTO shaft, new trans and hydraulic oil. I added a quart of Lucas oil additive to the front hydraulic system to slow down the leaks, It worked great! Both the pump and the control valve were leaking terrible before the Lucas additive. I also added a pint to the transmission oil.

ITEM INFORMATION
Model year: 1953 Date Purchased: 01/03/2013 Number of Hours:
REVIEWER'S ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Pros: Good value, parts available, easy to work on, strong little tractor. Cons: Tiring to steer with FEL. Poor brakes. Type of User: Homeowner 1-10 Acres Location: United States Nevada I also considered buying:
REVIEWER'S PHOTOS
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