Ford/NH 4600 series tractor opinions

[milkie62]

Been trying to update my old massey tractor to a newer 4wd w/loader. I need in the range of 50 HP.Always liked the 4600 series tractors.How do owners like them ? Have they held up OK and what about parts ? Thanks Ed

 

[Bigfoot62]

Ed,
Personally, I believe the x600 series were some of the best tractors ever built. I still have a 2600 that I don't intend to ever get rid of. After 30 years and nearly 2000 hours of service, the only repairs that I've made have been to replace the PTO seal and one rear wheel seal. (including the brake shoes on that side) That's it, other than normal maintenance and wear. (fluid filters, battery, belt, tires, etc)
Parts support is still good, through New Holland dealers. I don't think you would have a problem there.
I've never had a loader on mine, and don't really know anyone that does. So, I can't say about how it will handle a loader. Someone else that has one should jump in soon.

Here's a link to the TractorData page for that model: TractorData.com Ford 4600 tractor information

 

[milkie62]

Thanks for your input.I remember years ago looking at the 4610 at a tractor show.My old 1958 MF 65 has served me well but 4wd would be nice in the snow and with a loader.

 

[Jerry/MT]

Been trying to update my old massey tractor to a newer 4wd w/loader. I need in the range of 50 HP.Always liked the 4600 series tractors.How do owners like them ? Have they held up OK and what about parts ? Thanks Ed

I have a 1981 4610 2wd with an Ezee On loader and it's a real workhorse on our ranch. I has the 201 cu in diesel, independent pto and has Cat 2 capability as well as Cat 1. It's not the best for loader work because it has the 8X2 tranny and doesn't have a shuttle but for what I use it for it's just fine. It would been even better with 4wd because of the heavier front axle and the additional traction when you have a bale or other heavy load on the loader.
It's a bullet proof motor and tranny combination. The only other comment I would have is to try to find one with the dual hydraulic pumps. I have the single pump and it's really slow with regard to loader operation. It's probably a good thing. It keeps me from damaging anything when I'm in a hurry!

 

[milkie62]

I have a small Kubota with a loader and no shuttle,but for what I use a loader for around the property a regular tranny is fine.I use it to push snow piles back,carry firewood and move mulch around.So simple is better.If parts are still OK to get then I will really start looking for a clean 4610 4wd.

 

[Jerry/MT]

I have a small Kubota with a loader and no shuttle,but for what I use a loader for around the property a regular tranny is fine.I use it to push snow piles back,carry firewood and move mulch around.So simple is better.If parts are still OK to get then I will really start looking for a clean 4610 4wd.

Parts are available from New Holland as well as other aftermarket suppliers..

 

[D7E]

You wont find a stronger pulling 3 cyl than a 4610

 

[showcattle]

Friend of mine farmed like 900 acres (pasture and hay/crop ground). All he had were two Ford 4600's. Used them beyond what I'd recommend. They were pretty much bulletproof. I think the one was at like 12,000 hours before engine overhaul.