Restoration Price

labman98 · Jul 7, 2009

What is the going rate to restore a tractor? Take an M for example, where the metal is fair, tires are good and it runs. Restoration would include complete disassembly, sandblast, prime and paint. Anybody have any tractors done lately? Thanks Matt

Mike CA · Jul 7, 2009

There are a lot of variables that can affect the price. Does your disassembly include the replacement of all seals? Rebuilding the motor? How nice will the paint be?

If you are having a professional do all the work for you... I'd guess 5 grand. But that's just a guess. I know a guy who had an H sent from California to Indiana to have it professionally torn down and completely rebuilt. The paint was done to sports car perfection. Even the casts were smoothed to shine! It's got to be the nicest tractor I've ever seen! He won't tell the price, but I've been told he spend 5 figures.

Red Mist · Jul 7, 2009

I totally agree with Mike CA's synopsis; you either pay the big bucks, learn to do it yourself, or compromise on the degree of restoration. Doesn't seem to be any other way around it....
mike

GordoSD · Jul 7, 2009

Maybe Randy at Neblinc will chime in here or Glenster too.
I've done two Letter series in the past three years. Kept detailed records.
H with in frame engine rebuild, all components, gauges, new rubber, fenders, shields battery box, lights,wiring, tubes. fluids, bearings, seals, the works. Tin work to 100% perfection. Wheels and rims to 110% perfection. Single stage. Crossfire paint with hardener, color sand buff, polish.
Cost was just north of 3800. That's zero dollars labor. Add 1200 cost for tractor. Add ? for 120 hours labor?
Now the second one was SMTA. Higher purchase, But In frame wasn't needed, but clutch, TA, brakes, pump, ran this one up a tad. Tire prices higher. 4500+ in parts and materials on that one.
Today's prices I'd say you are looking at minimum 5 grand parts and materials to restore a letter series.

Gordo

labman98 · Jul 7, 2009

Well I have been restoring tractors for about 3-4 years now, I have done 8 I believe and it seems that I am undercharging. I fix all leaks, tires if needed, remove all tires and put on stands. Remove any sheet metal and get down to basically the chassis. I sandblast the whole works and any pieces and then prime and paint. I then assemble it painting all bolts/nuts seperately before I install. I have been charging anywhere from 600-1000. The paint is very very good as well. The tractors that I have done usually are some of the best looking at the tractor rides. But I am just not sure what to charge, or what others are charging. Thanks for any info

CNKS · Jul 7, 2009

I assume you did zero engine work, and fixed no leaks. $1000 will take me less than 25% of the way through a letter series, parts only. Paint alone is $500 if done right, tires are $1000+.

labman98 · Jul 7, 2009

Sorry I didn't make myself clear. I am the 600-1000 is labor only, which isn't of course including parts. With parts anywhere from 2000-4500 depending on motor and tires. The parts are not an issue I am just wondering what people charge for labor. Sorry for the confusion.

sgtbull · Jul 7, 2009

I charge $30 an hr. BUT, I explain to the owner that I COMPLETELY disassemble the tractor. EVERY nut and bolt. I also give a warranty that the owner will not be able to fill a teaspoon with old grease, paint, rust, etc from outside or INSIDE the tractor and it will operate and run to their satisfaction before they pay. If they can, I"ll halve the price. Last tractor I did, a Farmall B, took 134 hrs or so, but I reduced the price to 100 hrs worth. Plus parts.

Restoration Price

labman98

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Mike CA

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Red Mist

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GordoSD

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labman98

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CNKS

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labman98

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sgtbull

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