versatile 276

[grainfarmer]

Looking at buying a 276 verstile tractor with loader. Anything of importance I should be looking at. Most used 276 in dealers lots have at least 10000 hours on them. Any info would be appreciated

[raymondb]

Have the dealer replace all the hydraulic hoses and water hoses. These tend to wear under the cab. Also check the throttle cable and the gear shift cable for any wear. The gripper in the throttle cable control tends to wear.
Other than the above problems, I found the 276 to be an excellent tractor

[kamichel]

I just replaced the vibration dampenner on the engine. Part cost 250 dollars. Service manager said it would take 20 hours and it is easier to remove the engine to get at it. I did it in 8 hours myself plus fixed several other things like valve cover gasket leak, air conditioner pump siezing, oil leaks on the fittings on hydraulic tank leaking, cleaned radiator, so I did some work with not much cost guess I am lucky. My 276 has 6000 hours on it and worked hard in its life. Now is just a loader tractor, runs vacume, auger etc.

[frustrated1]

How do you like operating that 276? I always figured it would be the dream machine for us cow guys and I think once you're in the cab it is great. I found that crawling in and out was a bit more awkward than a tractor with a big door, making day to day operations a bit tougher on these old knees. ie: in and out opening gates, checking on agging calves, etc. After the demo on a couple I ended up buying a different FWD tractor instead. Just wondering if I made the right decision?

[kamichel]

I think it is a better riding tractor with the loader on. More bouncy without partly due to impropper tire pressure without the loader weight. Hydrostatic is handy but must be operated carefully. Lower engine rpm to smooth out hydrostatic. I am not a livestock producer so I do not spend long hours in it these days. Used to when used on swather, rock picker, and sprayer. Larger tires the better and adjust them to the widest setting. Rotating seat may also be an issue for someone older or of a larger size, must bend over beside seat to unlock to turn the seat.

[brian99]

Check the drop boxes on the front axle. Neighbours here had alot of trouble with the axles and eventually updated if they could. Problems with 1400 lb bales and/or silage. Keep the bolts tight. Like the other guys said, look for fraying lines.