Buying Advice Low Range reverse transmission noise

[tractorhound]

new to Massey Ferguson 165 late 1960's, but have completed a test drive on a used one with a fresh rebuild on engine. All the gears work but I noticed quite a lot more noise from transmission when in Low Range Reverse. (not there in Hi Range Reverse or in any other forward gear) ...any one have an idea if this is normal - or if it indicates a gear or bearing problem? Also any idea how much labour time it takes to split the tractor and put back together once transmission is repaired?

 

[tractorhound]

I have heard back from a UK Massey restoration company that this noise is usually the reverse idler gear wearing out. They indicate it can exist for quite a long time before major problems arise and there is seldom a complete failure. If repair is to take place the tractor must be split at the transmission - rear end joint to get access to the gear box. the gear itself and bearing are relatively inexpensive but the labour can be about 8 hours to complete the whole process. They also recommend putting new rings on the hydraulic pump since it is accessible. Hope this helps anyone else with same noise in Low Range Reverse!