So here’s what looks like a Cat Thirty-but the running gear looks more like an R4- what do you guys think? The guy selling it says it’s a wide track, but I’m skeptical.

thanks-Hiranger

Yes it is a wide gauge 30. Someone adapted R4 or RD4 track frames to it and probably has D4 track. The tractor looks reasonably complete and has a pto.

Well that makes more sense- So since it’s not original, is there collector value in buying it? The guy wants an arm and a leg for it- I’m thinking I’ll pass. Thanks for your help!
-Hiranger

there is always value in this old stuff. yes fully original and complete working machines are worth more. a machine that is only half there and is seized is scrap value. the only honest answer is what the buyer is willing to pay and the seller receive. some things no money changes hands but items are traded in value if some one has a rare part or the final bit you need it may be worth more than its monetary price.

anything that is unique or unusual is also worth more than normal.

It has a early manifold that looks good

I would not jump to conclusions about someone changing everything to make it wide guage. That is a huge undertaking. The final Drive Cases (hams) and rest of the undercarriage have to be changed. I am not certain a RD4 or R4 would interchange on the final drive portions.
AS far as track - rails, pads - Cat 35 can be used.

Caterpillar made Wide Gauge Thirty -- They were much more stable - turn much better and pulling a load better too, especially in soft soils.

Many of them here in N. California were cut up to make the early self propelled combines used in rice.

CTS

From the photo's -

Water pump does not look like it has been broken from freezing, manifolds look good, cover for magneto and associated pieces intact - even the cover over the spark plugs.
check the bottom mounts for the radiator for freeze damage - breaks to the inside
Fuel tank and seat look good, PTO is a plus in my opinion.

Equalizer spring from a RD4 will work on a Thirty, might check the part numbers on it, see if it matches Thirty or 4
Someone can correct me - but I do not recall a thirty having a single recoil spring -- that would indicate the roller frame has been changed.
Take a look at the other thirty there, compare the roller frames.

Looks like another Thirty in background -

If I were still where I had opportunity and it was close - I would be very tempted! Those days are over for me sadly.

Keep us posted on your findings

 

A few years back I passed up a nice twenty two that wasn't totally original with trailer for 5K and have regretted it ever since.😒

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