Massey Ferguson 148

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Founded in Ontario, Canada, in 1847 by Daniel Massey, the Massey Manufacturing Company quickly became the largest maker of agricultural equipment in the British Empire, making their first tractors in the late 1920s.

In 1953 they merged with the Ferguson Company (the famous British tractor company formed by Harry Ferguson and responsible for the iconic TE-20 ‘Grey Fergie’), becoming Massey Ferguson in 1958. The first mass-produced tractor to bear the new Massey Ferguson name was the FE35, a hugely popular machine that sold in vast numbers across the globe and was nicknamed ‘Gold Belly’ due to the gold engine and gearbox.

Their next smash hit was the MF135, the first of the long-running MF100 series, which won a loyal following thanks to its compact size, its power and its utter reliability compared to most other machines of the time.

Always looking for ways to expand sales, Massey Ferguson launched modified versions of the 135 and 165, adding a simple extension piece between the gearbox and the axle unit which changed the dynamics of the tractor significantly. This made them even better for use with the plough, obviating the need to add nose-weights. Marketed as the 148 and 168 respectively, they were in fact simply a 135 or 165 with added length and excellent machines they were too.

This stunning 148 was restored by the vendor a number of years ago from a wreck which had 7,000 hours under its belt. The engine was completely stripped and overhauled with new injectors and injector pump along with a new fuel pump, starter and dynamo. The rear lift arms were replaced, stabilisers added and a new leveling unit installed, the tractor retaining its useful pickup hitch.

New tinwork was fitted, including the rear mudguards, all of which was given a professional coat of two-pack Massey Ferguson red paint and new decals where appropriate. New wheel rims, tyres and seat were also fitted along with its safety cage.

Presented in immaculate condition, this comprehensively restored, properly engineered machine is on sale at less than the cost of a new, poorly made Far-Eastern import. You know it makes sense!