Vintage Tractor Engineer

Vintage tractor ownership has been a pretty rewarding pastime over recent years. Not only have we gained enjoyment from out tractors, but they have also risen in value. This is true for both vintage and classic tractors, so we must check that insurance taken out some years ago is updated to current prices.

That said, the important thing of course is don’t pay more for your insurance than is necessary. Insurance has always been a competitive industry so shop around for the best deals. Brokers expect to be asked for volume discounts, so ask for reductions if several tractors are to be insured.

The usual problem with mainstream providers is that they have no access to the book values for vintage machinery and so often find it difficult to provide a quote. It is recommended to use one of the specialist vintage / classic brokers who will have packages to suit individual circumstances. When taking out insurance, firstly check that your tractor comes within the age criteria (usually a minimum of 25 or 30 years old depending on provider). Implements and trailers are normally included at no extra charge, however some providers stipulate no business use of your machine. Not all policies cover road use, and those that do can have mileage limitations.

Don’t pay more than £30- £35 for straight forward third party cover, or £25 per tractor if more than one. Comprehensive insurance should only cost an extra £15- £20 up to a value of £2500.

Make sure that you get a policy that suits your needs, be they rallies, shows, working demonstrations, road use, agircultural use or social and domestic pleasure.

The collective machinery sale at York Auction Centre always pulls in large crowds of buyers and the March auction was no exception. Large crowds always gather for the tractor auction, and it will come as no surprise to Vintage Tractor Engineer readers that the greatest interest is around the vintage and classic tractors.

As with many collective auctions, potential purchasers are always aware that what they are bidding for may not be exactly what it seems! Unfortunately this often has a detrimental effect on the prices achieved, however a few ‘gems’ can still make good money. This was evident in the previous sale, when a very clean and original example of a MF135 made £3,500.

The McCormick International B275 and a 1953 Fordson Major c/w loader reached £1,700 and £1,550 respectively, both not reaching the reserve. These tractors were in good condition and were probably worth more money through a private sale. The Major was a local machine, having the original dealers plate still attached (H. Bushell & Sons, Railway St, York).

The David Brown 995 c/w loader pictured below (6,017hrs) sold for £1,450 and looked like a good buy. It looked as though it had plenty of working life left in it, or was a good example to add to a collection.

A Ferguson TED20 petrol/TVO also sold, but only for £400. Although it was painted up, the bonnet was badly dented and it looked a little messy. There is always a huge price differential between the superbly restored tractors and the ‘not quite so good’ ones. Mindst you, we all know the price of new bonnets, skins, engine rebuilds etc.

Others

• A McCormick International B250 diesel sold for £450.
• Ford 3000, 4,483hrs. £1,700 n/s.
• MF175 sold for £1,700.
• DB885 c/w loader, 7600hrs sold for £1,250.