The steering box on the MF135 are generally very reliable and rugged, and develop very few problems – unlike the steering box on the Fordson Dexta which is notorious for wearing (well I suppose it serves them right for buying a blue tractor!!!).

The good news is that all the parts for the steering box are available seperately.

The most common problem is simply oil leaking out of the steering box, and so it is simply a case of replacing the gasket for a couple of pounds or the shaft seals for about £6. While you have it in bits you may as well take a look at the shaft bushes and replace if they are worn (about £10). It is rare to have to replace one of the shafts, but if you do then expect to pay £80-£100 each.

This photo below shows a steering box from a MF65 tractor that has the patch of oil beneath it.

There are several different manufacturers of steering wheel to fit the 135, with slightly varying different prices. Some have a comfort ‘soft grip’ to them which you may find comfortable to use, but which is very different to the original wheel that was fitted.

Really it just depends what you want. Do you just want to use the tractor, in that case you want a practical steering wheel that is going to be both durable and comfortable to handle. If, on the other hand, you wish to retain the originality of your tractor then you will be looking for a replacement which is as true to the original as possible. You may find a second hand wheel from eBay that is in good condition.

View the different Massey Ferguson 135 steering wheels for sale.