Splitting the Tractor
Engine Data
Clutch
Gearboxes
Rear Axle
Power Take-Off
Front Axle
Hydraulics
Electrical System
Electronics
Cab & Sheet Metal
Accessories
Service Tools
Fuel & Air System
Cooling System
Brakes
Steering
Drawbar & Linkage
About the Massey Ferguson 300 series
Massey Ferguson Limited is a major agricultural equipment company which was based in Canada, Ontario, Brantford before it was purchased by AGCO. The company was formed by a merger between Massey Harris and the Ferguson business farm machinery producer in 1953, creating the company Massey Harris Ferguson. However, in 1958 the name was shortened for the first time to coin the brand Massey Ferguson. Today the company exists as a brand name utilized by AGCO and remains a major dealer around the world
The firm was founded in 1847 in Ontario, Newcastle by Daniel Massey as the Newcastle Foundry and Machine Manufactory. The business started creating some of the world's starting mechanical threshers, first by assembling parts from the United States and eventually designing and building their own equipment. The firm was taken over and expanded by Daniel's eldest son Hart Massey who renamed it the Massey Manufacturing Co. and in 1879 moved the business to Toronto where it soon became one of the city's leading employers. The massive collection of factories, consisting of a 4.4 hectares (11 acres) site with plant and head office at 915 King Street West, became one of the best known features of the city. Massey expanded the company and began to sell its products internationally. Through extensive advertising campaigns he made it one of the most well known brands in Canada. The firm owed much of its success to Canadian tariffs that prevented the bigger US companies from competing in Canada. A labor shortage throughout the country also helped to make the firm's mechanized equipment very attractive.
Massey Ferguson developed a wide range of agricultural vehicles and have a large share in the market across the world especially in Europe. The company's first mass-produced tractor was the Massey Harris Ferguson TVO which was quickly replaced by the Diesel 20. In 1958 the MF35, the starting Massey Ferguson branded tractor (a Ferguson design) rolled off the factory floor. These tractors were massively popular and sold across the UK, Australia, Ireland and the United States.
In the mid-1980s, the short-lived 600 show was released. This included the 675, 690, 690T, 695, 698 and 699. The reason for poor sale was due to poor taxi and appearance awkwardness compared to its predecessors. In the late 1980s, one of the greatest selling tractors of all time was released- the 300 series Massey Ferguson. Excellent power, simplicity of cab, maximum number of gears and components made the MF 300 series a success especially in Europe. The range included the MF 350,362,375,390, 390T, 393, 394, 395, 398, and the most preferred and powerful Massey Ferguson 399 with horsepower ranging from 72HP to 104HP.
Massey Ferguson 300 series Tractor factory workshop and repair manual
1) Theory — what a strut does and how it fails
- Function: the strut (shock/strut assembly) controls vertical wheel movement by converting kinetic energy into heat (via hydraulic damping) and locates the axle/wheel relative to the chassis (through its mounts and bushings). It reduces bounce, controls weight transfer during braking/traction, and limits axle kick/oscillation.
- Principal parts: piston rod, piston/valve, oil chamber, seals, body, mounting bushings/top mount and lower eye/bolt.
- Common failure modes and effects:
- Seal wear / internal valve wear → hydraulic fluid leaks or bypass → reduced damping → excessive bounce, poor wheel contact, instability, tyre wear.
- Collapsed or bent rod → permanent loss of damping/incorrect ride height.
- Worn bushings or loose mounts → play in axle location → steering wander, clunks.
- How replacement fixes it: a new strut restores valve/seal integrity and internal geometry so damping forces return to specification; new bushings/mounts remove unwanted play and restore proper axle location and load paths.
2) Preparations (theory + why)
- Get correct replacement (part number or OEM spec). A gas-filled or hydraulic strut is not serviceable; replace whole unit.
- Tools: jack and stands, axle support blocks, appropriate sockets/wrenches, penetrating oil, torque wrench, pry bar, new mounting hardware/bushings, grease, cleaning rags, container for any leaked oil.
- Safety: the strut is load-bearing — always block and support axle/chassis so the strut is unpressurized during removal. Why: avoiding sudden drop that can damage components or cause injury.
3) Step-by-step ordered procedure with theory at each step
1. Park on level ground, set brakes, remove ignition key. Chock rear wheels. (Prevents movement.)
2. Loosen wheel nuts slightly if wheel removal is needed. Jack the front and support securely on stands under the axle or frame close to jacking points. Support the chassis as well if the strut supports chassis load. Block the tractor so that the strut carries no load before unbolting. (Why: you must remove preload so mounts/bolts can be removed safely and bushings are not under tension.)
3. Remove wheel to gain access. Clean around top and bottom mounts; apply penetrating oil to bolts. (Why: prevents bolt breakage and allows inspection of surrounding parts.)
4. Support the axle control arm or axle housing immediately under the strut lower mount using a jack or blocks—take the weight off the lower mount bolt. (Why: prevents sudden drop and keeps suspension geometry stable.)
5. Remove lower mounting bolt/nut. Then remove top mount nut(s) or stud nuts. Retain/compare washers, spacers and any shims in the original orientation. If top mount uses a rubber mount assembly, note its orientation. (Theory: order matters — sometimes lower bolt first lets you swing the strut out; sometimes top first is easier depending on space — but always keep axle supported.)
6. Withdraw the old strut. Inspect the old unit: look for oil leakage, damaged rod, collapsed body, worn bushings, or play in mounts. (Why: confirms failure mode and checks for related damage.)
7. Prepare the new strut: fit any new bushings or sleeves included, ensure orientation matches original (rod up/down as required), apply a thin film of grease to rubber bushings if manufacturer recommends, do not pre-compress gas struts. (Theory: correct orientation and bushing prep affect noise and load distribution.)
8. Install new strut into top mount first (or lower first if space dictates), align and insert bolts loosely. Reattach lower mounting bolt and leave hardware finger-tight. Ensure any spacers/washers are in original places. (Why: loose fit allows alignment without straining bolts.)
9. With axle supported in correct ride height (lower jack slightly so bushings are not twisted, but do not carry full vehicle weight on the strut), torque lower and top fasteners to the manufacturer’s specified values. If you do not have specs, tighten to a firm torque appropriate for bolt size and grade, then check the service manual as soon as possible. (Theory: torquing in the correct position avoids preloading or binding of the new bushing and ensures clamp load for safety.)
10. Refit the wheel, lower tractor to the ground, torque wheel nuts to spec. (Why: final assembly.)
11. If the strut is part of a hydraulic/linked system that shares fluid with the tractor hydraulics, check fluid level and bleed according to manual (operate lifting/steering cycles to purge air). If it’s an isolated shock absorber, simply cycle suspension several times to seat bushings. (Theory: air in hydraulic lines reduces damping and can cause spongy response.)
12. Road/field test at low speed first: observe ride, listen for clunks, re-check for leaks and for loose bolts. After 50–100 km/hours of work, re-torque mounting bolts. (Why: bushings settle; re-torque avoids gradual loosening.)
4) How this specific repair fixes the fault — direct mapping
- Leaking seals/valve wear: replacement provides intact seals and correct valve geometry so fluid is forced through the metered passages, restoring expected damping force and stopping excess oscillation.
- Collapsed/bent rod: new unit restores travel and damping range so ride height and axle control return to normal.
- Worn mounts/bushings: replacing them removes play and restores correct alignment of the strut to the axle and chassis; this removes clunks, steering wander and uneven loading that cause tyre wear.
- Incorrect torque/installation: proper installation and torque ensures the strut behaves as designed; incorrect mounting can preload the bushing and mimic a failed unit even if new.
- Air in hydraulic circuit (if applicable): bleeding removes compressible air so damping is consistent.
5) Final checks and safety notes (concise)
- Inspect for leaks, damaged hoses (if hydraulic), and correct mounting orientation.
- Re-torque after initial hours of service.
- Dispose of old strut/oil per local regulations.
- If symptoms persist (continued bounce, clunks), inspect related items: springs/leaf springs, axle bushings, steering linkages, wheel bearings and tyres.
End. rteeqp73
MF 300 Series Geared For Efficiency Geared For Success MF 300 Series Geared For Efficiency Geared For Success Do you remember the fantastic Massey Ferguson 300 Series Tractor, ...
How to restore a massey Ferguson 300 series A few more pictures as to what we do.
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- Safety first
- Park tractor on level ground, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key.
- Let engine fully cool (oil and engine parts can cause burns).
- Wear safety glasses and gloves.
- Disconnect battery negative terminal to avoid shorts when you work on the electrical connector.
- What an oil temperature sensor is and what you don’t do to it
- The oil temperature sensor is an electrical probe screwed into the engine oil system that senses temperature and sends a signal to the gauge or ECU.
- You do not “oil” the sensor. You may clean the connector and use dielectric grease on the connector contacts, but do not coat the sensing tip in oil as a fix — the sensor must be tested or replaced if faulty.
- Likely sensor location on Massey Ferguson 300 series (general)
- Typically mounted in the engine block or oil gallery near the oil filter housing or oil cooler lines; location varies by exact model and year.
- If unsure, consult the tractor’s service or parts manual for exact location before you start.
- Tools you will need (detailed descriptions and how to use each)
- Socket set with ratchet and extensions (metric set)
- Description: ratchet handle plus sockets (common sizes for sensors are 19mm or 22mm, but sizes vary).
- How to use: choose socket that fits the sensor hex, attach to ratchet (use extension if access is tight), turn counterclockwise to loosen. Use steady force; keep socket fully seated on hex to avoid rounding.
- Why required: sensor hex is easiest removed with a socket; better access and grip than an open wrench.
- Open-end/box wrench set (metric)
- Description: fixed-size wrenches; useful when space prevents a socket.
- How to use: fit wrench on hex and push/pull with controlled force. Use full engagement to avoid slipping.
- Why required: alternative to socket; sometimes easier in tight spaces.
- Small flat-blade screwdriver or pick
- Description: thin metal tool for releasing electrical connector clips.
- How to use: gently lift the locking tab on the sensor connector to release; do not pry on wire.
- Why required: electrical connectors commonly have a locking tab that must be depressed to remove.
- Multimeter (digital)
- Description: handheld meter to measure resistance (ohms) and continuity.
- How to use: set to ohms, attach probes to sensor terminals (see below for test method). Watch reading change with temperature.
- Why required: to check whether the sensor is functioning before buying a replacement.
- Small drain pan or catch bucket
- Description: shallow container to catch a small amount of oil that will leak when sensor is removed.
- How to use: place under sensor, remove sensor slowly to avoid splashing.
- Why required: prevents oil on floor and makes clean-up easier.
- Clean shop rags
- Description: lint-free cloths.
- How to use: wipe area clean, absorb drips, clean connector contacts carefully.
- Why required: to keep area clean and avoid contaminating sensor connections.
- Dielectric grease
- Description: silicone-based grease for electrical connectors.
- How to use: put a small dab on the connector terminals (after cleaning) before reassembly to prevent corrosion.
- Why required: protects electrical contact from moisture/corrosion — not applied to sensor tip or threads.
- Thread sealant or PTFE (Teflon) tape (if required)
- Description: pipe thread sealant or 1–2 wraps of PTFE tape for tapered threads; do not use tape on sensors designed with a crush washer.
- How to use: if the sensor uses tapered pipe threads, wrap PTFE tape on threads in the direction of screwing. If the sensor uses a sealing washer, use the washer instead.
- Why required: prevent oil leaks at the sensor threads.
- Torque wrench (optional but recommended)
- Description: wrench that allows you to tighten to a specified torque.
- How to use: set to manufacturer torque spec and tighten sensor accordingly; if no spec is available, tighten carefully (see below).
- Why required: prevents overtightening and damage to sensor or block.
- Replacement sensor (only if needed)
- Description: OEM or aftermarket oil temperature sensor with the correct thread size, electrical connector type, and resistance/temperature spec for your tractor/gauge.
- How to use: install as the old one was removed, seal threads appropriately, reconnect wiring.
- Why required: faulty sensors or damaged threads/connectors must be replaced to restore accurate temperature reading and avoid leaks.
- Optional tools for difficult cases
- Swivel socket or universal joint
- For hard-to-reach angles.
- Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster)
- For stuck sensor threads; apply and let soak before attempting removal.
- Heat source (torch) — use with extreme caution and only if absolutely necessary; risk of fire and damage. Prefer penetrating oil and patience.
- Step-by-step procedure (concise, beginner-friendly)
- Prepare tractor: cool engine, park, remove key, set brake, disconnect negative battery terminal.
- Locate sensor: visually find the oil temp sensor based on manual or near oil filter/oil lines. Clean area with rag so dirt won’t fall into opening.
- Protect area and catch oil: place drain pan under sensor and a rag around area.
- Disconnect electrical connector: depress locking tab with flat screwdriver or finger and pull straight off. Clean terminals with rag; do not pull on wires.
- Remove sensor: choose correct socket or wrench, seat fully on sensor hex, turn counterclockwise steadily to loosen. Expect a small amount of oil; tip sensor out into pan.
- Inspect sensor and threads:
- Check for corrosion, damaged threads, cracked plastic, or broken connector.
- If the sensor has a sealing washer, ensure it’s present and in good shape.
- Test sensor with multimeter (basic functional test)
- If sensor is a two-terminal thermistor type (common): set multimeter to ohms, connect probes to the sensor terminals.
- At ambient temperature you should see a finite resistance reading; heat the sensor gently (place tip in hot water while probes attached) and watch the resistance change. For an NTC sensor resistance decreases as temperature increases.
- If the sensor shows open circuit (infinite resistance) or no change with temperature, it’s faulty and should be replaced.
- Reinstall sensor or install new one:
- If reusing: ensure threads and sealing surfaces are clean. If the sensor uses a crush washer, replace the washer. If using PTFE tape for tapered threads, wrap 1–2 turns in thread direction avoiding the sensor tip and connector.
- Hand-start the sensor into the hole to avoid cross-threading, then tighten with wrench. If you have a torque spec from the manual, use it. If not, tighten snugly — hand tight plus roughly 1/4 turn with wrench; do not overtighten.
- Reconnect electrical connector: use a dab of dielectric grease on contacts (not inside sensor) and snap connector into place.
- Reconnect battery negative terminal.
- Start tractor, check for leaks around sensor, and monitor oil temperature gauge for a reasonable reading. Let engine warm and ensure gauge responds.
- How to know if replacement is required and what to buy
- Replace sensor if:
- Multimeter test shows open circuit or no sensible resistance change with temperature.
- Connector or wires are corroded, broken, or melted.
- Threads or sealing surface are damaged and leak even with correct sealing method.
- What replacement part to buy:
- A direct-fit oil temperature sensor specified for your exact MF 300-series model and year. Match thread size, electrical connector style (number of pins), and electrical characteristic (Ω vs °C curve).
- Prefer OEM part from Massey Ferguson or a reputable aftermarket part with exact application listing for your tractor model. Bring the old sensor to the parts counter to match threads and connector if you can’t access a parts diagram.
- If wiring is damaged, repair or replace the harness or the connector ends — a new connector or crimp terminals and heat-shrink will be required.
- Common beginner pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Don’t overtighten: overtightening strips threads or cracks castings. If unsure, be conservative.
- Don’t contaminate electrical contacts with oil: clean before applying dielectric grease.
- Don’t use the wrong thread sealant: PTFE tape on a sensor that expects a crush washer can prevent proper sealing; check the old sensor to see which sealing method was used.
- Don’t force the connector: lift the locking tab and pull straight; forcing can break the plastic.
- Quick summary of required replacement criteria
- If sensor electrical test fails or physical damage/leak is present → replace sensor.
- If wiring or connector fails → repair or replace wiring/connector.
- If everything tests ok but gauge still misbehaves → check gauge, wiring continuity, and grounding.
- Final check
- After reinstall and start, confirm no oil leaks and gauge changes as the engine warms. If leaks or no reading, shut off engine and recheck wiring and sealing.
- Closing practical notes
- Keep the old sensor until you’re sure the new one works; parts counter can use the old sensor to identify correct replacement.
- If you don’t want to do diagnostics yourself, replacing the sensor is often a straightforward and inexpensive repair.