Ford 260C

Bradbilt · Apr 17, 2014

I posted this in another section but did not get much response.

I bought a 260c 4wd at an auction to replace my 3400. I needed 4wd. The 3400 did everything I asked but winter traction(even with weights, calcium and chains)

Anyway. Can anyone give me some info on this tractor? Any common issues? Anything else I should know?

Sportsman762 · Apr 19, 2014

The 260C should be a good model. The only word of caution I have is that the fuel injection system and pistons are often different than the ford ag tractors and finding parts for them can be expensive. However most other parts are common to the ford ag tractors.

Bradbilt · Apr 19, 2014

How are they different? It appears to to be the same 201 engine in the farm tractors

TractorTech · Apr 20, 2014

The 260C is basically a soft-nosed 545C/D. Both utilized the 201 engine with headland pistons like the 4630 ag. tractor. The industrial tractors have a power shuttle transmission and a different 4wd ratio than the 4630. The 4wd reverser box on the back of the front axle has zerk that needs to be greased to keep the pivot bushing lubed, but also purge dirt out of that joint. There is a thin oring that seals the axle oil in that box abd if it leaks, can allow the reverser and/or the differential to sieze. Minor problem on the industrials unless the joint is leaking.
The biggest difference between these tractors and your 3400 is the engine block. The newer blocks were thinned and reinforced (x design on outside of block). Electrolysis, cavitation and cylinder pitting is more prevalent because of this. Keep the coolant with SCA additive (diesel type antifreeze) in your new tractor as prevention of this problem. This is not exclusive to this engine, just something to prevent with proper maintenance.
Enjoy your new-to-you tractor!