Starting a 460

Erik MN · Sep 10, 2009

Hi all,

First of all I really enjoy reading your posts and am amazed at the knowledge of this board. I actally had Janicholson as a college professor in 3 classes and can attest to his amazing knowledge in so many areas.

My question is... I am picking up a Farmall 460 this weekend (my Ford 8N needed a buddy) that I bought from a good friend's parents. They quit farming about 8 years ago and this tractor was running well when parked but has not run in about 5 years or so due to the large number of tractors they had on their place. The fuel system is plugged up and I will have to go through all of that and clean it out, and I plan on draining and replacing all of the other fluids in the tractor. I have heard of a bit of ATF down each spark plug hole to loosen things up a bit. What do you all think of that? Any other ideas, I just do not want to hit the starter with 5 years of sitting?

Thanks in advance for all of your expertise!

rustyfarmall · Sep 10, 2009

ATF in the spark plug holes is an excellent idea for any tractor that has been just setting for that long. Squirt it in and let it set for a day or two before attempting to start the engine.

A thorough cleaning of the tank and fuel system right now will prevent lots of headaches later. If there is gasoline in the tank, drain it out and get rid of it. Don't try to use it. It is NO good.

mattofvinings · Sep 10, 2009

My 460 (utility) ran terribly until I split the carb and cleaned it as best I could. The stuff that initially came out of the carb was nearly black in color...and full of water too.

Since then it has run very well and now starts without a shot of ether. I still have some rust issues inside the gas tank that plugs up the bottom fitting from time to time but that seems to be decreasing in frequency.

The Big Six is a sweet machine to run when its working right.

Janicholson · Sep 11, 2009

Thanks for the promo Eric. I agree with the others on the ATF in the cylinders. Put the plugs back in after putting a quarter cup in each hole. Then before cranking (or attempting to crank) pull the plugs, Oil does not compress, and it will lock the engine as much as rust. Putting rags at the plug holes will reduce the mess somewhat.
Cleaning up residual gasoline varnish from the carb, lines, and screens is a must do activity. Do not put on an extra filter, it is just not needed. With a polishing of the points, regapping them to .020", and fresh gasoline, it should function. Jim

Erik MN · Sep 11, 2009

Thanks guys for the information! I am amazed at how knowledgable these boards are. I am looking forward to getting it up and running. I will post back with pictures.

Starting a 460

Erik MN

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rustyfarmall

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mattofvinings

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Janicholson

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Erik MN

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