Front-End Loader For use on a Ford 861

wildcatskye · Jul 22, 2017

Hi!!! Today we became the proud owners of a Ford 861 from a local farm auction. The first question we have is what goes into, is it worth the trouble if one cannot afford a skid steer, or is it even possible, to outfit this tractor with a front end loader? Thank you very much for any input or advice anyone may have!

Turbys_1700 · Jul 22, 2017

My father used an 861 with a Ford FEL to load round bales on the farm over 25 years. The tractor had a hydraulic PTO pump to help power the FEL. The tractor worked well for all those years but the front end of those tractors are not the strongest for FEL usage. When we sold it several years ago the front axle was cracked from those years of usage. My father loaded bales from an old New Holland chain baler that did not make tight bales. They were pretty light. Probably in the 600# range.

My personal opinion is that the 861 is a fine older utility tractor. Just not the best option out their for FEL usage.

strum456 · Jul 22, 2017

Yes, an 861 can handle a loader, but it wont be much good for anything else with the loader on it. Does the tractor have power steering? With a loader, it will be VERY hard to steer if not. You will also need weight in the back. Loaded tires will get you around. If you want to use the loader, you will need even more weight in the back. As has already been mentioned, the front axle is another concern. The front axle support is known to crack with a lot of loader usage.

IMO, hundred series Fords were meant to be equipped with loaders for light work, such as loading manure, definitely not dirt moving.

motownbrowne · Jul 23, 2017

Personally, I wouldn't consider putting a loader on one, but everyone's circumstances are different.

wildcatskye · Jul 23, 2017

Thank you all for your quick responses! We have a MF135 (badly in need of an overhaul) that does have a front end loader, and personally, I am not a fan of working around that monstrosity. I would rather NOT put a FEL on the 861. I guess I'll wait till we can afford a skid steer or find someone to fix up the 135! LOL! Thanks again, to each of you! :thumbsup: