The basics of the problem was that the prior owner(s) not only did not take good care of this machine, they took steps to hide damage. For example, they cut the heads off bolts and epoxied them to holes to make it look like they were properly installed. Every hole in the the oil pan extension was stripped.
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As I read your account from start to finish, I was saddened, angered, then amazed. In admiration I was awed by your ability and tenacity to undertake the project in the face of overwelming obstacles. In admiration I read your positive remarks in the face of complete financial disaster, not to mention your time, agrgravation, and loss of being able to get in the seat and use the tractor you chose. Out of all the choices out there, you chose that tractor. And because of evil intent on the part of someone, you were harmed in many ways. Covering up the fraud is involved is not only wrong, but may be criminal as well. What if you had been injured as a result? A scenario can be envisoned involving death caused in some way, whether by the fraud or by the project as well. Your wife and German Shepard would miss you. It is a fact now that you have to protect yourself from people who commit these kinds of acts. Its not the machines you should worry about, its the people. Frankly, I have been a lawyer for 22 years and have seldom seen such blatant direct evidence of intent to defraud. Gluing on bolt heads to make it look they are functional and normal?? How would one discover this at purchase inpsection? No one looking at a tractor is going to take a wrench and try out every bolt to see if it snaps off right away! Not a amateur tractor person like myself, nor even a trained tech more than likely. SOMEONE, perhaps your seller, perhaps not, KNEW that tractor had serious issues. And I dare say, more than one person knew about it. The law, and a curious attorney with some fire in his belly could find out. While most transactions like yours are probably as-is, your state's laws may be different. Furthermore, even in a so-called "as-is" transaction, that may not shield the seller (and/or other wrongdoers) from actions (both civil lawsuit and criminal indictment) based on actual fraud. Usually, what we see is fraud that is a wee bit more subtle in nature. Usually, we feel confident the seller knew of problems but proof can be problematic. Nevertheless, my motto has always been 'where there's a will, there's a way.' And that seems to be your motto as well. But it took awhile for you to get there. Your first action was to go to the dealer and your were ready to take a financial beating. What a wonderful attitude you displayed. While your skill and drive in your own repair is admired, it is your spirit that impressed me as the rarer quality and should be commended. We can all learn a lesson from you. But I hope the story does not end with the last turn of your wrench. These actions CRY OUT for accountability. On behalf of ALL us who have ever been lied to, cheated, swindled, (you name it), not to mention our sons and daughters, friends and neighbors, and those yet to be cheated and defrauded to come, I urge you to consider taking action.
