Sears Tractor Question

ImbriD · #1 04/27/14, 12:39 AM

I have an opportunity to pick up a good shape Sears Suburban 16 tractor with a mower for a decent price. We have 6 acres and want it for a bit of mowing, plowing and general work around the homestead.

My question is it worth buying something that old, what are the pitfalls I can expect and would it be adequate for light homestead work?

I've noticed a few people around here have them so figured this would be the best place to ask.

plowjockey · #2 04/27/14, 07:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ImbriD

I have an opportunity to pick up a good shape Sears Suburban 16 tractor with a mower for a decent price. We have 6 acres and want it for a bit of mowing, plowing and general work around the homestead.

My question is it worth buying something that old, what are the pitfalls I can expect and would it be adequate for light homestead work?

I've noticed a few people around here have them so figured this would be the best place to ask.

I had one, used just for mowing. It had a manual lift grader blade, that is typical of that period, which gets tiring on the arm.

If the engine runs, the rest of the tractor is simple design, built like a tank. Belt drive clutch - simple transmission. I had engine valve problems (Tecumseh), that I just didn't want to mess with. I parted it out on ebay an doubled my money.

The mower decks are very heavy gauge steel, but some are rusted through, if neglected.

Used parts are plentiful on ebay.

Decent older tractors if maintained, IMO.

Nimrod · #3 04/27/14, 11:53 AM

I am using a Massey Ferguson MF 12 to mow and pull my log splitter with. I think it's 1960s vintage. I have had it about 10 years now.

It is built like a tank, much better than any new one. I'm pretty handy so I have been able to keep it running but parts can be hard to come by. There is a filter in the hydrostatic transmission that needs to be replaced when it plugs up. New Holland still stocks that filter but they are $50 each. The steering gear box wore out. There are no new ones. I found a junker MF12 about 20 miles away. The guy took the engine and the rear wheels and sold me the rest for $50. I pulled the steering gear box, cleaned it up, filled with new grease, and put it in. Works well. Meanwhile I have spare parts including a hydrostatic tranny, rear end, body parts, and frame parts. Also 2 front wheels and tires. I had previously replaced one of the front tires with new and it cost $76.

You will not find anything newer that is as well built but you have to be handy to keep it running.

geo in mi · #4 04/27/14, 02:15 PM

Not a bad idea if you keep in mind that you may have to do some wrenchin' when you should be ranchin'.......

geo

Silvercreek Farmer · #5 04/27/14, 05:46 PM

I farm my 6 acres with a Suburban 12, it is incredible what it an do and when you go too far they are light enough to pull out with about any vehicle, 4 wheeler, or tractor! Make sure the brakes and drive belts are well adjusted especially if you have any hills. The key to getting them to really perform is ballast weight and tire chains or ag/atv style tires.

Which engine does the one you are looking at? Onans can be expensive to work on if you have to start overhauling but they are built well to begin with and will run for a long time. A common weak point is the foam float in the carb. It will start to absorb gas and prevent the engine from running properly. It is an easy swap for a brass float. There are many capable old garden tractors from Cub, Massy, Wheel Horse, Bolens etc but Sears are probably the simplest, cheapest, and most plentiful around here. And just about part can be had on eBay for less than the dealers charge for brands that are still supported.

Silvercreek Farmer · #6 04/27/14, 05:51 PM

Here are a few videos of mine. I've got over 300 lbs of ballast (fluid and wheel weights) and atv tires.

ImbriD · #7 04/27/14, 09:22 PM

Thanks all. Lollygagged around and missed the deal which is probably a good thing since a surprise vehicle repair came up.

I'll have to keep my eyes open for another.