Theroundhousernr 590 #1 Posted January 10, 2014 I just got back from looking over a C-125 Auto. I don't thing you can find one in any better condition. It comes with a deck and single stage snow blower. Everything is super tight on the tractor. No play in any controls. No leaks in the rear or axle seals.. All original wiring. Motor had a warped head but has been recently professionally repaired. I don't think it every left the garage. Motor mount rubbers are in great shape. Very little play in the throttle shaft. The deck still has all original decals and are fully legible. No rust on anything on the tractor or implements. The snow blower looks as someone used it once or twice and put it away. Bearing and shafts all feel good. I was really amazed at how well cared for it was. Only thing I found while I was there was the governor shaft bushing was almost spun all the way out. I noticed this because of all the play in the governor. I tightened it back up and it seems ok now. So my question is. What would something like this be worth? Also does anyone know what hydro was used in this model and are they reliable? Looking forward to your input. I am ready to pull the trigger. I think I got bit by the Wheel Horse Bug. Thanks Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tim 97 #2 Posted January 10, 2014 I'm going to give you the worst possible answer "it is worth what you are willing to pay for it" geographical regions are different, based on your description, around here the asking price would be $700-1000 or more on CL Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WH nut 553 #3 Posted January 10, 2014 You haven't bought it yet??? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theroundhousernr 590 #4 Posted January 10, 2014 Tim I am a firm believer in that saying. However , most everything has a practical value or market value. So I am just curious. WH nut, It is as good as in my garage. A friend of mine owns it and it is not on the market so to speak. So I am not worried about it being sold out from under me. Just wondering what you all thought. I just looked under the manual section here and found that the c-125 auto was only made for three years and most of them seem to have a eaton 1100 trans axle. In 1980, the early models used a sunstrand. My GT14 really pushes some snow but I am curious about this snow blower business after seeing all you guys photots Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
MalMac 1,332 #6 Posted January 10, 2014 I would say 500 to 700. One thing that concerns me is the fact that it had a warp head. Heads do and can be come warp over time and some times they get that way because of over heating. I would not let that be a deal killer, just something to think about. As far as what tranny, some of that vintage came with Eaton's and sunstrand think it depends when it was made. I am sure someone else will step in here that knows. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
AMC RULES 37,196 #7 Posted January 10, 2014 Offer $500 max...how's it running now? Got any picts? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TT-(Moderator) 1,162 #8 Posted January 10, 2014 Identifying the hydro is as simple as either reading the ID tag or observing the location of the oil filter. The fourth digit after the hypen would be an "S" for Sundstrand (oil filter on right - pointing straight out) or an "E" for Eaton (oil filter on left - pointing to the rear) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theroundhousernr 590 #9 Posted January 10, 2014 The filter is on the right. Same side as my gt14. So for now i can assume it is a sunstrand. I have to check the tag on it. I am going to take a battery with me next time and hear it run. Make sure there are no knocks. I don't think it was over heated but i guess there is no way to tell. The block fins are clear of debris. I have a newer Lowe's John Deere that i mow with now, but i want something a little more heavier built. I was hoping this tractor would fit the bill. If the head was warped due to excessive heat, is there anything to be concerned about, as far as the motor? Thanks for the replies so far. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theroundhousernr 590 #10 Posted January 10, 2014 Oh and by the way, as soon as it comes home, I will upload plenty of pics. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TT-(Moderator) 1,162 #11 Posted January 10, 2014 I consider a warped head to be common on these engines - especially on the K141/161/181 engines. I credit most of it to the heating / cooling cycles and the inconsistent thickness of cast aluminum with cold air being blown across the top side while heat is applied to the underside. Once the bolts are loosened, the head is free to relax. Some relax more than others. The question I would ask is how the warped head was discovered. If it was because the head gasket was leaking, that could indicate loosening of a head bolt (or two) which could accelerate warpage by causing a concentrated hot spot. A loose bolt or burned/blown gasket also results in uneven clamping force and that in itself will also cause warpage. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theroundhousernr 590 #12 Posted January 10, 2014 My friend bought the tractor like this. All the gentlemen told him was the head gasket was leaking and the head was warped. My buddy had the head machined back into spec and put a new gasket on and tightened her down. He mowed with it towards the end of the season but now the battery is dead. He said it has been fine. I know with some bigger engines like the john deeres , if the manifold gasket was left to leak awhile it can burn away at the head and then the head has to be machined also. So I guess what I am asking is , could it be possible the the block has some wear from the head leaking or is that an unlikely assumption? Thanks Kyle Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TT-(Moderator) 1,162 #13 Posted January 10, 2014 So I guess what I am asking is , could it be possible the the block has some wear from the head leaking or is that an unlikely assumption? Thanks Kyle Possible? - yes.... but highly unlikely. I wouldn't be too concerned unless it loses another gasket. Retorque the head bolts once or twice (after a few heating / cooling cycles), perform the normal maintenance, and enjoy your new tractor! 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
roscoemi 245 #14 Posted January 11, 2014 Will one of those pics become your new avatar? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theroundhousernr 590 #15 Posted January 11, 2014 What??? You don't like my 1951 John Deere A??? Can't the green tractors be friends with the red ones lol. Actually , it was just a handy picture I had at the moment. I will try and round up some red pics . UPDATE: if everything goes as planned. The c-125 will be coming home with me tomorrow. I will be giving it a good once over, battery and mounting the snow blower. Oh and most importantly.... pictures. Then waiting for some more snow to come to PA. All we have is rain right now, though we did have an inch of snow today. But the rain is washing it all away at the moment. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
roscoemi 245 #16 Posted January 12, 2014 Actually, I like your '51. It's just the wrong colors! LOL! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JackC 617 #17 Posted January 12, 2014 (edited) If the weather is bad I can pick it up for you in my bad weather horse hauler and bring it to my house. Edited January 12, 2014 by JackC Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
