MC buyer's guide

[mikeb]

Somehow, someway I've been bitten by the John Deere Crawler bug! This site is great.

Is there a FAQ somewhere on this site which helps buyers with what to look for when considering purchasing a JD crawler for the first time? I've searched multiple times, but haven't found anything yet. If it exists, could someone point me in the right direction? Thanks.

I keep leaning towards a MC. Are there specific things I should look for when considering purchasing an MC? I'm a fairly good auto mechanic, so I understand engines and gearboxes, but I know nothing about crawlers. Except that I'd really like to have one!

Somewhere on this site I think I read about when shopping for a crawler, shop for the undercarriage first. That makes sense to me, but how do I know when I'm looking at a good undercarriage vs. a bad undercarriage? I'm comfortable looking at an old truck and making that determination, but I have no experience with the unique crawler parts.

Sorry for the beginner questions, I just don't want to buy my first JD crawler and then later say "If only I had known then what I know now..."

Any advice or opinions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

mike bennett

[Gil]

There was a rather involved discussion under the title "What To Buy" on a November 21, 2008 post in this forum. Thirteen replies addressed some of the considerations that might be of value to you.

[mikeb]

Thank you, I appreciate the reference.

mike bennett

[mikeb]

Does anyone have the pin to pin dimension over 4 track links on a MC so that I can estimate how worn the tracks are? Anything else to pay particular attention to?

Thanks,

mike

[Lavoy]

23" is new, 23.5 is 100% worn.
If the crawler has a dozer, you need to be careful of bottom rollers, they are often worn or broken, especially the forward roller. Check the front idlers, same thing, they are often worn or broken on dozer MC's. Either of these items can be pricey to replace, and sometimes hard to come by.
Lavoy

[mikeb]

Lavoy,

Thank you very much.

There is no dozer blade on this tractor, but I plan on trying to check the rollers as best I can. Was thinking of using a crowbar and prying on the rollers to see how much movement there is: OK idea as long as I don't get carried away? From a front idler standpoint, I'm basically looking for cracks, broken teeth, teeth worn to a sharp point, unusual (non circular) wear on the valleys between the teeth, .....?

The serial number for this tractor matches the serial number range for a 1952 MC. The owner indicates the tracks are original. I have a hard time believing this, but am trying to keep an open mind. How would I tell if the pads are well worn originals? Round head bolts, or were those only on the Lindeman style pads on the early MC's? If it's a '52, would have the cast steel style of pads like a 40?

Owner also indicates this tractor has a pto and had a 3 point on it. It was my understanding the MC never had a factory 3 point, correct?

I'll try and post pictures after I inspect the tractor.

Thank you again for all the help,

mike bennett

[Lavoy]

If it is a high enough serial number, it could have hex head pad bolts, or if they have been replaced at some time. Pad style is the same, but the late/replacement hex head pads are heavier and thicker.
Lavoy

[mikeb]

Thanks for all the info, but the crawler was sold before I had a chance to look at it.

mike