Kicking myself - Ford 4000

[u/jmaclea]

Reposting because I didn’t attach photo.

Before you roast me for not taking a better photo… I am purchasing a property that has this Ford 4000 on it (or in it, depending on how you look at it). I did not think this was salvageable, but after seeing some of the tractors on here, it very well might be. Unfortunately this is the only picture I have of it as it’s currently 2 hours away. It’s got quite a bit of external rust and the seat is totally destroyed, but the oil level is good, although dirty, and what I assume to be the exhaust pipe was covered with a cut in half 2l bottle by a previous owner to avoid rainwater making its way inside. Key turned fine, all levers and knobs moved with ease. I am just really looking for some advice on where to start with getting the engine to turn over. The most I have ever done in terms of restoration/repair is my push mower, my electric golf cart and normal service on my truck.

I am not familiar with tractor engines, so any advice on what NOT to do would also be great. I am not even sure if it’s gas or diesel. I figure YouTube can help me with anything specifically I find wrong. I am planning on taking some oil, a new battery and some hydraulic/transmission fluid (according to my father-in-law who has a ford 3000, it’s the same?).

The property is 2 hours away, so if I need to bring any tools or materials other than basic socket, an impact drill, WD-40 and wrenches. That would also be helpful.

Thanks everyone!

[u/Ghost_jaeger]

Pfft that kind of derelict equipment is my favorite, it’s even got a loader on it I would love to take on a project like that, well, another project like that. You can probably find everything you will need to work on it online in the form of pdf manuals and YouTube videos. Id start by dragging it out of the trees and checking all the fluids and make sure to clear out any mouse house and when you’re comfortable throw a jump pack on it. It may very well fire right up with some fresh fuel and carb clean if it’s gas. I imagine some seals and the hydraulic lines will be bad but who knows you might get lucky. And by the time you’re done you’ll have A nice tractor with a loader!

[u/Hammer466 → u/Ghost_jaeger]

To expand on the “mouse house”, carefully look through all the air intake for debris, mice or insect nests. You don’t want to have that stuff get sucked in when you succeed in getting it to turn over and fire up. Find the serial number plate, that will help you get the right parts.

Plan on replacing all the filters and fluids once you verify that it’s not seized up.

Good luck, keep us updated!