Buying Advice 240 with low hours - issues?

[jimmysisson]

Hi, I usually post about Fords, but a friend is looking at a late model (1999?) 240 straight 2wd tractor with only about 75 hours. No loader (he doesn't need one); this will be used only for brush hog. It looks like it's been shedded and is clean and straight. Older owner, just very little use. Anything we should be looking for for that model, or those hours/years? I had a mid-70s 135, and this looks similar. It's about 3 hours away so I'd like some preparation and would appreciate any advise. Thanks, Jim

 

[jimmysisson]

Hm, maybe these aren't a popular model. So be it.

 

[sawtooth]

I don't own one but appears to be a good model. Perkins engine hard to beat

 

[Turbys_1700]

The 240 is a reliable basic tractor that would make a very good brush hog tractor. If those are the correct hours I would ask what the service schedule was. I would hope basic oil changes were performed yearly and the fuel was kept fresh. Ask about the fuel filter too. Tires should be good. Sounds like a great opportunity to score a great used unit. Let us know what you find.

 

[Farmer495]

It's an updated 135. 1999 model Should have the pendulum style pedals, they changed somewhere towards to end.

Have an 89 240 here, not really much to go wrong with them. If it runs and starts and everything works, I'd be buying that over some brand new 3rd world job with a bunch of computers and emmissions junk

 

[PatrickS2222]

It's an updated 135. 1999 model Should have the pendulum style pedals, they changed somewhere towards to end.

Have an 89 240 here, not really much to go wrong with them. If it runs and starts and everything works, I'd be buying that over some brand new 3rd world job with a bunch of computers and emmissions junk

I still use our 135 bought new in 1968. It's reliable as the morning sun and utterly unkillable. A 240 is an even better version of that tractor - 8 Fwd gears, a few extra HP, and they manufactured them for 19 years - they had to be good. 75 hours? Just run in. Buy it, change engine oil and filter, fuel filter and coolant - I'm green with envy! Go for it mate!

Tractordata quotes US$18,800 new in 1998 - how could you go wrong???

 

[jimmysisson]

Thanks to all for your replies. It does look like a 135 except for sheet metal. I'll see what my bud wants to do and let you know. They're asking around $10k.
Jim

 

[PatrickS2222]

I couldn't say how that compares to what else is available in a similar price bracket, but remember you're looking at a practically brand-new tractor, run in for you, then stored for 15 years. Above all it's one of the best, certainly the best in its class. :thumbsup:

Talk for considerable time with the people - there's at least one common interest here already .... that's why you're there with them. One thing they're usually concerned about - even more than people selling cars - is that the buyer will look after and maintain the tractor as well as they did, and it's patently obvious they did. :laughing: You will probably find this is ultimately more important to them than the sale price. Then negotiate in a patient and gentlemanly manner, ensure you strike a deal and buy it! As you say, they're older people and - providing they seem reputable - extend the invitation to them they would be welcome to visit for lunch one day, and to see your (as I usually put it) corner of the world .... and their tractor. I've met and made friends with several good people in this manner, it instantly establishes or reinforces your genuineness, and they may or may not travel three hours each way to visit .... but the gesture itself says a lot. Good luck! :drink:

 

[PatrickS2222]

Any news yet? Do you now have a lovely tractor?

 

[jimmysisson]

I think my friend asked the seller so many questions the guy decided not to talk to him any more. He is kind of a nudge so it's understandable. Too bad cause I thought it was a good machine for him. Thanks, anyway.
Jim