Ford 4000 questions

[56FordGuy]

I'm looking to move up to a larger tractor. I'm currently using an IH 424 (gas), which should be around 35 hp. I'm looking for something that can pull an 8-10' bush hog, and I'm interested in the Ford 4000. According to TractorData, the 4000 is 45 HP for early models and 55 HP for late models. Where is the determining line between an early and a late model?

I'm located in the hills of middle TN, and the brakes on my 424, even when working properly, are less than great. How are the brakes on the 4000 tractors? Are they relatively trouble free?

I see there was a transmission PTO, and an independent PTO. Was one more common than the other? I'm guessing the transmission PTO is similar to the non live style found on the 8N, where the independent would be similar to what I have now on the 424.

What about remote lines? I don't see that listed anywhere. I would expect one, but were two available?

Any opinions would be great. Thanks!

 

[Soundguy]

i think I might look for a 4600, 5000, (5xxx) etc.. if I wanted a 10' mower.

I would feel fine with a 7' or 8' on a 4000 or a 4600 though.

the lift top cover has an option port that you can add a single or dual remote to.. they run about 500-900$ new for 1/2 and about 150-250 / 300-500 used.

independent pto and an 8spd are what i would look for. diesel and power steering for sure..... 4-68 or later on the 4000.. 4600 has some hyds upgrades.. external hyd filter.. etc.. etc..

soundguy

 

[56FordGuy]

I think an 8' mower is the way to go. I don't think I could fit a 10' through some of my gates. I'm mostly trimming behind horses, but occasionally do get into some thick stuff. I think (hope) a 4000 could pull an 8' through most stuff.

I guess 4/ 1968 is the break between an early and late 4000? Definitely looking for a diesel, power steering model. I'll add an independent PTO to the list. The 4610s look good, but I'm not sure if I'll find one in my price range. Looking around on Tractorhouse, it seems most 4000s are running anywhere from 4 to 6 thousand, where most 4610s seem to be in the 9 to 10 thousand range. How are the brakes on the 4000s?

 

[Caliche]

"I'm mostly trimming behind horses, but occasionally do get into some thick stuff."

I would move the horses before mowing.

 

[Soundguy]

4000's have wet brakes.. and are 'good' un;less worn out. not at all like the dry brakes of the previous series that get oil on them from axle seals then have no brakes.

get an 8spd tranny.. you can always catch a lower range or gear if the stuff is thick.

low 1, is crawling...

soundguy

 

[56FordGuy]

Was the 8 speed transmission an option? I thought all the 4000s were 8 speed (four high, four low).

What about brake replacement? Being wet brakes, I take it they're inside the axle housings? Are they on the differential side of the outer axle housing, or the wheel side?

Was there a differential lock on the 4000?

 

[RickB]

Was the 8 speed transmission an option? I thought all the 4000s were 8 speed (four high, four low).

What about brake replacement? Being wet brakes, I take it they're inside the axle housings? Are they on the differential side of the outer axle housing, or the wheel side?

Was there a differential lock on the 4000?

3 cylinder 4000's had the higher HP rating and generally have 8 speed transmissions and independent PTO with wet brakes. The brake assemblies are on the differential side of the axle housings. Brake replacement is a never, or once-in-a-lifetime occurrance on the average 3 cylinder 4000. If there is adjustment left on the brake rods, the tractor doesn't need a brake job. 3 cylinder 4000's have a differential lock.

4 cylinder 4000's were built prior to the 3 cylinder versions, have lower HP ratings, and offer none of the features discussed above.

 

[Soundguy]

ditto 100% what rickb said.

8spd is IMHO.. the most common tranny you will see.

one I would likely avoid is the SOS 10spd.. though if you find a good one.. it's likely gonna stay good with maintenance and care.. the earlier units had the most issues.

soundguy

Was the 8 speed transmission an option? I thought all the 4000s were 8 speed (four high, four low).

What about brake replacement? Being wet brakes, I take it they're inside the axle housings? Are they on the differential side of the outer axle housing, or the wheel side?

Was there a differential lock on the 4000?

 

[56FordGuy]

I really appreciate the information, y'all. I have one more question. How can I tell an independent PTO from a transmission PTO? My first guess would be a transmission PTO will stop when the clutch is depressed, and an independent will keep running. Is that right?

Thanks!

 

[Soundguy]

yup...