Curiosity

Thinking about buying a COOP Duplex No 3. The only thing I know about em is what I can read on Tractor data. Supposed to have a 248 Chrysler 6 cylinder. Questions: good tractors, engine and transmission reliability, parts availability and anything else I might need to know about? Appreciate any input. DP

I'm staying away from everything that doesn't have local dealer support.

A guy 4 miles away claims he can't find parts to fix his 1950s tractor's leaking power steering. Leaks a quart in 4 hours.


Terramite went out of business. I have 2 terramites. I have to make parts or add hydraulic oil.

My point; all it takes is a $1 part to make a good 70 year old tractor a yard ornament.

Sooner or later, all things will need special parts. DEALER SUPPORT!

I hate to say this because most people don't have room for it.. Find another for parts. Chrysler 6 cylinder engines are out there. They were used in many industrial applications. So parts shouldn't be an issue with them.

COOP tractors were built up from a stash other manufacturer's parts, mainly Chrysler Corp. The flathead 6 is still a great engine and you can get almost any part for it online (Rock Auto, Vintage Power Wagons, &tc.), or from any parts store counter jockey who isnt afraid to look in (and can read) an actual parts book. Any part EXCEPT for a decent exhaust manifold that is, but even that usually cracked and burnt-out part isnt too hard to find because there are still tens of thousands of that type of engine still banging it out in welders, compressors, pumps and even other old tractors like Massey Harris.

I think the transmission and rear axle were also Mopar parts for their medium to big trucks so gears and shafts MIGHT still be available. Bearings and seals should all be standard parts from Timken, Hyatt or CR and their cheap knock-off clones- you just gotta know the dimensions to order them.

The only issue that might leave you on your own is the unique sheet metal they used. If any of thats missing, you'll have to have it made unless you can find a used piece somewhere. Like Roy S. said, get a parts tractor if you can, or 2, or 3...

If you get one, restore it and like to go on tractor parades just be aware that theyll put you and that hot-rod COOP at the back of the pack every time to keep you from grabbing 4th gear and leaving all those slow-poke JD, Case & IHC slugs behind!
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The fact that you can't find any information on the tractor should tell you everything you need to know about parts availability. Sure, with some creativity you can probably find engine parts, seals, bearings... You can make your own gaskets. Anything manufactured specifically for the tractor, you're probably out of luck.

If you want a cheap old tractor to use that has parts available, look for a Farmall H or M. Hundreds of thousands made, parts tractors all over the place, people selling used parts all over the place, plenty of new parts available online.

The Co-op is really only a collector tractor.

I consider a Coop tractor an odd ball. Whether it is or not, I guess might vary depending on opinion.

That said, looking for parts for an odd ball might be harder to do. Likely less available at the parts outlets. Less tractors to be found in a salvage yard. Now grant it, you might live in an area where the Coop tractor was common and there are plenty around in salvage yards. But that would definately not be the case in my area.

Thanks everyone. Talked with my machinist and he agreed with warbaby about parts for the engine being available. Still a ? about everything else so the debate in my head will continue. DP

if origional poster does npt buy it i would go for it

I would really like to find one. Where are you locaated? IF you pass on the deal let me know contact info . I

And what would you do with another tractor?

I do not drink or smoke. Also to old to chase women. Collecting tractors is all thats left!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You should buy it! Your Minneapolis-Moline tractors need to adopt an orphan to be their friend. I have one Oliver in my herd of Case tractors. All Tractors Matter! Lol

Also to old to chase women

You can't chase women because you are too old to run. lol

they might be standing and waiting !

J, I got one Ford, is that orphan enough?

(quoted from post at 14:10:54 03/24/23) And what would you do with another tractor?

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Since when does that matter??

Meh, somebody made the parts once, someone can make them again. Thats part of the fun of old tractors.

There are finance programs out there for those that want a tractor with no challenges.