What's My Tractor Worth?
What is a tractor worth?
One of the most frequently asked questions among tractor enthusiasts is the value of a particular tractor. While there are no set guidelines in determining value, there are however, key things to consider. First of all, you have to realize that some models are more common than others. Also, the particular year a model was manufactured has quite an impact on value. Take the Farmall Regular for instance. They were manufactured between 1924 and 1932. The peak year for manufacture was 1929, with the least being made in 1924. They are highly collectible since only 200 were made in ‘24 and for the unique characteristics found on those models. The 1925 and 1926 model years are also a bit higher in value due to the relatively small production numbers. When 1927 rolled around, IH’s new Farmall plant opened, and production numbers dramatically increased, making these more common and easier to find. Generally speaking, and from my experience, most makes and models improved over their production runs. So usually the closer you get to a model's first years in production, the more valuable it will likely be.
The condition is an obvious factor as well, but there are some points to consider. Engines and their related parts aren’t that much of a factor if you ask me. You can find re-build kits almost anywhere and for almost anything it seems like. The cost of a re-build can be high, but most of the time an engine can be salvaged pretty reasonably. The important thing here is the hard to find items like sheet metal, air breathers, belt pulleys and various linkages. Not only are some of these items hard to find, but also can be rather costly to replace. It really depends on your resources. I know some good sheet-metal guys that can make new body parts in no time, but are scared to death when it comes to re-wiring the electrical system. Sometimes a tractor can be worth more in parts than it is as a whole. Perhaps it has some decent sheet metal on it that someone needs. Maybe it has an elusive belt pulley and drive unit that some people would love to get their hands on. All of these variables come into play when determining a value. In all reality, finding something that is pretty much complete, is in running condition and sells for under a thousand dollars is really good!
What really makes it difficult is personal value. Maybe you are looking for your dad’s old H. Maybe you would like to find the same make and model that you first started out on as a youngster. Someone may just have that last model you need to finish your collection. Whatever the reason may be, logical reasoning in terms of value goes out the window when these factors are involved. I know of a lot of tractors that changed hands for more than top dollar because of this. But that is perfectly fine. That is what makes the seller happy and the buyer happy. I guess you could say that a tractor is worth whatever the buyer and seller agree on.
--Mike