That's a nice size tractor and I'd like to hear a little more about those Ford 3910s. What motor? What transmission? What were common options? How are parts?
What's good and not so good?
How are the front wheels driven by the front axle? At that time I imagine it could have been bevel gear drive, traditional sliding splines, or even some sort of universal knuckle.
rScotty
The venerable 3cyl that was used for many years in many HP variations gas or diesel. Mine is diesel.
Mine, and the one in the OP's pic, is and 8spd forward, 4spd reverse using a mechanical shuttle.
Not sure about options. If RickB sees this he will know. Mine, and the one in the Op's pic has dual rear hydraulics and auxiliary hydraulic pump.
Parts are very available. A quick Internet search will reveal that. The Midwest CNH parts warehouse is 55 miles from me. I can get most parts the same day I need them.
Goods. Very balanced tractor with a lot of features that aren't even found on new tractors. Hydraulic speed can be adjusted to include the 3pt lift. Can then be adjusted again at the rear remote couplers. Has the normal brake pedal lock and additionally has a lever type brake lock that locks the powertrain so all four wheels are locked. Wet hydraulic brakes. Independent hand lever PTO engagement for soft starts. Interchangeable 3pt link arm balls to switch between CAT I and CAT II without using any tools. Of course all the normal stuff such as Draft Control, Position Control 3pt. Great tractor for it's size.
Bads. Only one I have is turning radius is big. This is caused by the design of the front axle which uses the old school King Pin knuckles with Double Cardan axle joints at the knuckles.
Front axle drive is engaged/disengaged by a sliding spline gear enclosed in a small transfer case added to the front of the rear axle assembly. Engagement is done by lifting a T handle on the right side of the transmission near the brake pedals. The OP's pic shows this T handle and he has it engaged in 4wd. A very easy to use system that is bullet proof durable.
These 10 series Fords are very good tractors that are sought after. Great dependability. Easy parts availability. Large production numbers so chassis parts are available at bone yards.
I suspect the OP will miss his 3910 when he tries to replace it with a Compact. His tractor is more of a Utility Class than a Compact Class.