smitty316 0 #1 Posted May 30, 2011 I've recently bought and fixed up a 312-A and made a trailer to haul fire wood with it. It does a great job, but I've since learned that I might be overworking the 700 Eaton hydro in it. I thought about looking for a stronger 1100 hydro for it, but I'm not sure what kind of headaches a swap like that might cause. Since then I've come across a C-120 and a C-160 for sale for good prices. Would I be better off buying one of them and selling my 312-A ? The 312 seems to do a good job, but I hate the idea of abusing a quality machine. How would the reliability of the C models compare to the 312 since the C's are older machines? Thanks, Smitty Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tbbahner 27 #2 Posted May 30, 2011 If the price is good, buy them all so you don't have to change implements. The C's mentioned are bulletproof when maintained. Good luck Tom B Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
C-Series14 15 #3 Posted May 30, 2011 Like Tom said, the C-Series are great machines. I have nothing but C-Series and they are used for everything. It says something about the quality when you use 30 year old and older tractors with no problems at all! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
smitty316 0 #4 Posted May 30, 2011 Thanks guys, What transmission do the C series hydro use? Is it the Eaton? Would a gear box be better than a hydro for pulling a heavy trailer? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
C-Series14 15 #5 Posted May 30, 2011 Sunstrand...Gear would be better but others will give their 2 cents worth. I have both Auto's and 8-Speeds, I like the Auto's for mowing and the 8-Speeds for everything else... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
baerpath 517 #6 Posted May 30, 2011 Other than the good idea of having two tractors, another way to go is change the rear when and if you need to. If you have already fixed it up. Duane Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
smitty316 0 #7 Posted May 30, 2011 Duane, That's kind of what I think too, but I'm not sure how big a deal it is to put in a different transmission. I'm thinking I'd like to swap the 700 Eaton that's in it for an 8 speed. I wonder how much of a problem that would be to get the shifter, linkage and everything else changed. Also, this C160 was going for $350.00. I wonder what I'd spend buying a tranny and everything I need for it. Thanks, Smitty Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
baerpath 517 #8 Posted May 30, 2011 If you are close by I could sell ya a donor 1100 Work Horse for 200.00. the briggs on it kinda runs Duane Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
smitty316 0 #9 Posted May 31, 2011 Thanks Duane! I'd take you up on it if I weren't here in Washington, Missouri. I think I'll take your advice and just enjoy what I have while it lasts. Maybe it'll be fine. In the mean time I'll keep my eye open for some spare parts like an 8 speed transmission. Have a good one, Smitty Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
can whlvr 991 #10 Posted June 1, 2011 i would buy the c160,i have one(its an auto)and the 16 single is a true beast,it has tons of power and reasonable on fuel,i have 3 marron stripes and 3 c series,i like em both,so if i were you i would get the c160 and keep the 312 too :hide: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites