Ford 1710 Head Issues ???

[JFS2295]

So yesterday I was getting a new front tire installed on my 1710 front rim at the local Kubota dealer (the nearest New Holland dealer is 60mins away). So the guy mounting the tire is asking what I have and comes back that he used to work for the local New Holland dealer that closed years ago and started to warn me about the 1710s having head issues. Usually cracked heads.

I kind of took that as "buy a new Kobota", but curiosity got to me and I started looking at tractor salvage sites and there are a couple salvaged 1710s that mention cracked head. I haven't come across this issue on TBN however.

So have any Ford/New Holland mechanics or those with a long Ford/NH history seen this as a common problem?

 

[RickB]

Almost 20 years experience at a NH dealer who has sold many hundreds of compacts over the last 40+ years. Cracked heads on 1710's are most definitely not an endemic problem. I know for a fact that I have been around more John Deere/ Yanmar engines (650's, 750's and 850's) with head problems than Shibaura/Ford/New Holland.

 

[Wolfy]

My 1710 has been excellent and I would buy another one tomorrow. People that complain about broken machines often are too stupid to even check the oil level. Keep it maintained, and do not drive it like a bulldozer, and you will be fine.

 

[trmechapt]

I Worked at the Ford Dealer for 25 years. We never had a 1710 come in with a cracked head.
Gary

 

[trmechapt]

Keep the radiator clean and the Anti-freeze fresh, You shouldn't have any problems.
Gary

 

[JFS2295]

Thanks guys. The only issues I've had with this 1710 was a water pump and a starter solenoid years ago but now I know why he's working tires.