IH 544

Randy2 · Feb 20, 2010

My grandfather bought our 544 in 1969 as a left over at the dealer. When he and my grandmother died two weeks apart the farm got split 5 ways, including the machenery. Since me and my father were the only ones that wanted to farm we took care of it, but the rest of the family used it for stupid things like blowing snow and plowing gardens and just plain crap and broke it quite a bit so we stopped fixing it. Now it leaks and burns oil and needs a major overhaul. Since it runs like crap no one barrows it anymore. My qustion to you guys is a matter of opinion. Do you think i should get it rebuilt? It was a nice sized tractor and was nice to rake hay and bale with, and it was my grandfathers pride and joy. Since i just took over the farm compleatly, i need it pretty bad. I've been using a 1066 and a 1256 and they are a little big to be doing the mid sized work. I have a super M and an H But a live pto and 3 point hitch would be nice. Just a leave me somthing if you guys are bored. Thanks

Gary Wood · Feb 20, 2010

Fix it,your grandfather would be proud of you......

the tractor vet · Feb 20, 2010

That is a NO brainier Fix it and then make the relatives mad and DO NOT LET THEM USE IT as they did not help fix it so why let them break it again. So no matter what it takes to fix it wright the first time do it as you would be hard pressed to find something in that Hp. range for the money and still not know what ya got this way you know what you have and when do and taken care of it will last you a long while if taken care of.

1970-1655 · Feb 20, 2010

Your grandfather bought it new. For sentimental reasons if nothing more, restore it and put together a story book with any pictures of him or the step by step restoration to go along with it. That makes a good display for tractor shows. I would still use it when needed, but the loaning out would end. Let them buy a tractor for their own abuse.

We bought our tractor new and when I bought the tractor from the estate, I also found about every receipt for anything spent on it. I have 1 brother that got mad when I asked permission to buy it. He is also the one that would destroy it if he knows someone else wanted it.

erik dekeyser · Feb 20, 2010

I wouldnt even think about it. I would fix it up just like new and keep it for the next generation. Even if they dont want it i would still fix it while you can still get the parts. They are a great tractor and they dont make any more like it. Erik.

BDT in Minnesota · Feb 20, 2010

Who actually '''OWNS''' the tractor now?? If I was not the sole owner, I would just let it sit..
BDT, former sucker...

IH 544

Randy2

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Gary Wood

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the tractor vet

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1970-1655

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erik dekeyser

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BDT in Minnesota

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