What does more work: 861 or 3000

[Prospectfarms]

I've never used either tractor.

I use a 5 ft bush hog and 7 foot blade, single bottom plow, 6ft. disk, etc., using 30 hp tractors of similar vintage. Both need to go into the garage for a few months of intensive rehab.

A seller I trust is offering a 861 or a 3000 with high/low for same money. Both have power steering. The four-cylinder is shiny. The three-cylinder, not so much. both show @ 3K hours for what that's worth. Everything works. I'll call them even in mechanical condition. On paper, the 3000 is a little heavier and a little less powerful.

Both choices are gas. I only use gas.

Which tractor will do more work before it breaks? Do you think one is obviously "tougher?"

Thank you.

 

[Ultradog MN]

It is a tough call. Ther are both very good tractors,
The 861 will have 6 or 7 more HP. But on the implements you describe it wont make much difference.
I prefer the 3 cylinder Fords. They are more robust, have stronger, longer lived engines and to me, are easier to work on.
The 3000 will likely have differential lock which the 801s never had and I like the 8 speed over the 5 speed.
They were factory 12 volt which I prefer.
One warning I will give on the 1965-75 3 cyl Fords is Never, Ever trust the hour meter on one.
Unless you run it long enough to actually watch the numbers turning over.
They were notorious for early failure.
I have 3 Fords but my 3000 is my favorite.
It is cobbled together from parts from about 15 different tractors.
It will be with me till they pry it from my cold dead fingers.

 

[Prospectfarms]

Very helpful. I'd Forgotten about the diff. lock. And you remind me of the low gear issue. (Plowing on a six hundred can be a wild ride.) I agree that 3 cyl. engine is heavier duty. So there you go. Thanks!