Buying Classic Tractor Parts and Restoring a Massey Ferguson 135
Restoring a Massey Ferguson 135 to its former glory may require a lot of work and spending a lot of money, but a tractor restoration hobbyist knows that it is worth the hard work and the cost. This beautiful agricultural machinery, which was out in the market from 1964 to 1975, was popular during that good eleven years because of its power and maneuverability. Now, the MF 135 is one of the classic tractors that antique tractor restorers love to rebuild, restore, and run.
As is with most, if not all, vintage tractor restorations, bringing back the MF 135 to its good old glory may entail a long process of overhauling. The work may involve a simple changing of its oil seals and a nice repainting job, or it may be a full engine rebuild. In any case of restoration project, it will be very important that you know where to get classic tractor parts for a Massey Ferguson 135.
New Parts vs. Used Parts
It is understandable that some restorers aim to have 100 percent (or close to that) original and authentic parts when dealing with this vintage tractor, especially if the aim of the rebuilding project is authenticity. It is recommended that when buying previously-owned parts, one must go to trusted dealers and shops to ensure that the parts will be covered by warranty and are in good condition. However, note that there are some parts that may be sold at a higher price when they are built in the same decade as the MF 135. Ultimately, there is a risk of spending more in buying used classic tractor parts than buying new ones.
Tips for Replacing the Engine Kit
More often than not, those who embark on restoring the MF 135 may look at the engine and see that it needs a complete rebuild. One may find that the engines installed on the vintage Massey Ferguson 135 are clocked up between 6,000 and 15,000 hours, or maybe more. At the same time, it would be inefficient to only replace part by part, and if a strip-down will be needed to repair the engine, it is only sensible to replace all the worn-out parts at the same time. To save more, one may opt to purchase a full engine kit instead.
As most MF 135 owners love the sound of its engine because of its great power, they will find that the Perkins AD3.152 engine kit is compatible with this tractor. Kits from this line includes all gaskets needed, bearings, oil pump assembly, and valves. For those restoration newbies, there is an engine rebuild DVD that comes complete with instructions.
Additional Tips
When installing classic tractor parts for the MF 135, it may be wise to get containers that you can label to easily find the components that you need when doing a full rebuild. One may also find it useful to take photographs of each key area to make sure that the placement of the original parts can easily be reviewed. Remember, it is very important to always know what goes where.