
The Ford 1710 compact tractor occupies a respected place in agricultural history, celebrated by farmers, estate managers, and hobbyists alike for its reliability, flexibility, and straightforward design. Manufactured by Ford in Japan (by Shibaura) during the early to mid-1980s, the 1710 offers robust performance for a variety of tasks, including mowing, tilling, loader work, and light field utility applications. This guide provides a deep dive into the Ford 1710’s specifications, highlights typical issues and solutions, shows how to deal with trouble codes (even though diagnostics are somewhat manual and mechanical), and compiles reviews from real-world users.
Ford 1710 Specifications
Before discussing problems and troubleshooting, it’s critical to understand the foundation of the Ford 1710’s engineering.
Ford 1710 Specifications Table
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine Model | Shibaura LE892 |
Engine Type | 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel |
Displacement | 1.4 L, 1,409 cc (86 cu-in) |
Rated Power | 26 HP (19.4 kW) @ 2,500 rpm |
PTO Power | 22.5 HP (16.8 kW) |
Fuel System | Indirect injection, mechanical injection pump |
Starter System | Electric |
Transmission | 12F/4R gear (with shuttle), Dual-Range |
Chassis Type | 4×2 2WD or 4×4 MFWD (depending on submodel) |
Brakes | Wet internal expanding shoe |
Steering | Manual (optional Power Steering) |
Hydraulic System | Open center, 6.3 gpm (23.8 l/min) capacity |
Hitch | Category 1 3-Point |
Lift Capacity | 1,430 lbs (649 kg) at lift point |
PTO Speed/Type | 540 rpm, live or transmission-driven |
Fuel Capacity | 7.4 gallons (28 liters) |
Wheelbase | 63 inches (1,600 mm) |
Length/Width/Height | 114.8 in / 50 in / 77.2 in (2,918 / 1,270 / 1,961 mm) |
Weight | 2WD: 2,311 lbs (1,048 kg); 4WD: 2,513 lbs (1,140 kg) |
Tires (Ag Front/Rear) | 5.00-15 / 11.2-24 |
Production Years | 1983–1986 |
Manufacturing Origin | Japan (by Shibaura for Ford) |
Explanation of Specifications
The Ford 1710’s engine, the Shibaura LE892, is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, delivering solid torque and horsepower for its size. With dual transmission ranges (12 forward and 4 reverse speeds), it offers flexibility for field and yard work.
- Chassis & Hydraulics: The 4WD option provides enhanced traction—essential for loader work and muddy conditions. The open-center hydraulic system provides adequate capacity for implements.
- PTO & Hitch: Standard Cat 1 three-point hitch and live PTO allow for running a variety of implements.
- Operator Platform: The 1710’s simple, analog gauge cluster and straightforward layout makes it ideal for both novice and veteran users.
Ford 1710 Problems and Solutions
Even tractors known for their reliability are prone to issues as they age. Below are practical, experience-based solutions to the most common Ford 1710 problems.
1. Hard Starting or No-Start Condition
Symptoms:
Engine cranks slowly or fails to start, especially in cold weather.
Likely Causes and Solutions:
- Weak Battery or Faulty Cables:
Test battery; if voltage is below 12.4V, recharge or replace. Clean corroded or loose connections, paying close attention to grounds. - Glow Plugs Not Working:
For diesel engines, functioning glow plugs are vital for cold starts. Test with a multimeter; replace any that are out of spec. - Old or Bad Diesel Fuel:
Drain the tank and refill with fresh, winterized diesel if necessary. Replace fuel filters. - Starter Motor Issues:
If starter only clicks or turns very slowly, have it tested and rebuilt or replaced.
2. Engine Runs Rough, Dies, or Has Low Power
Symptoms:
Irregular running, stalling, smoke, or loss of power under load.
Likely Causes and Solutions:
- Blocked Fuel Filter or Lines:
Replace the fuel filter and blow out or clean fuel lines. Check for microbial/biofuel residue in tank on older units. - Air In The Fuel System:
Bleed the injectors and lines after any filter change or if air ingestion is suspected. - Valve Adjustment Out of Spec:
Inspect and adjust valves per service manual specs. - Dirty/Clogged Air Filter:
Replace or clean air filter for proper combustion.
3. Transmission, Clutch, or Shifting Issues
Symptoms:
Grinding gears, trouble engaging or maintaining gear, clutch slipping.
Likely Causes and Solutions:
- Low or Wrong Transmission Fluid:
Drain and refill with specified gear oil. - Worn or Damaged Clutch:
Inspect and adjust clutch pedal free play. Replace clutch discs if slipping continues. - Linkage Wear:
Inspect shifter and linkage for loose or worn bushings—tighten or replace as needed. - Synchronizer or Gear Damage:
If grinding persists, professional inspection and gearbox repair may be needed.
4. Hydraulic System Malfunction
Symptoms:
Slow loader or 3-point lift, jerky hydraulic operation, hydraulic noise.
Likely Causes and Solutions:
- Low Hydraulic Fluid:
Top up to the correct level with approved fluid. - Hydraulic Filter Blocked:
Replace filter if flow is restricted or noise is present. - Valve or Pump Wear:
Test pressure; low readings may mean a worn pump or faulty relief valve—service or replace as needed. - Leaking Lines or Fittings:
Tighten all connections and replace rubber lines if cracks or leaks are observed.
5. Overheating
Symptoms:
Temperature gauge climbs, engine begins to lose power, or coolant boils.
Likely Causes and Solutions:
- Low Coolant or Old Antifreeze:
Fill/flush system and refill with quality coolant. - Clogged Radiator or Fan Issues:
Clean cooling fins free of dust, chaff, and debris. Check for loose belt or damaged blades. - Thermostat Stuck:
Replace if stuck closed—engine will overheat. - Water Pump Failure:
Inspect for leaks or poor flow; replace if faulty.
6. Electrical and Lighting Failures
Symptoms:
No dash lights, headlights out, intermittent instruments.
Likely Causes and Solutions:
- Blown fuses:
Always check fuse box and replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage. - Corroded Connectors or Grounds:
Clean and tighten all electrical connections and grounds. - Aging Wires:
Over time, wires may become brittle—repair or replace as found.
7. PTO or 3-Point Hitch Will Not Engage/Operate Properly
Symptoms:
PTO doesn’t spin when lever is engaged, or 3-point lifts poorly/stuck.
Likely Causes and Solutions:
- PTO clutch out of adjustment:
Adjust per manual; replace if severely worn. - Hydraulic issues (see above).
- Linkage jammed or out of alignment:
Lubricate all pivot points and adjust linkage rods. - Selector Lever Not Engaged:
Re-seat lever or repair as needed.
Ford 1710 Error Codes and Fixes
The Ford 1710, like most compact tractors of its era, does not have an ECU or digital diagnostic codes as seen in newer machinery. However, operators can use basic troubleshooting indicators (“manual error codes”) based on warning lights, dash indicators, and mechanical symptoms. Here is a practical table for analog “error codes” and their fixes:
Ford 1710 Error Codes and Fixes Table
Indicator/Code | Meaning/System | Likely Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|---|
No dash lights, no crank | Electrical/fuse/battery | Blown fuse, dead or disconnected battery | Replace fuse, charge/replace battery, check wiring |
Glow plug light stays on | Preheat/glow plug system | Faulty relay or shorted glow plug | Replace relay, test and swap glow plug |
Charging/battery warning light | Charging system/alternator | Failed alternator, loose belt, dirty terminals | Replace alternator, tighten belt, clean posts |
Temperature warning | Overheat/cooling system | Low coolant, bad thermostat, clogged radiator | Fill coolant, replace thermostat, flush radiator |
PTO fails to engage | PTO/hydraulic link | Low oil, misadjusted clutch/linkage, jam | Top oil, adjust linkage, free stuck parts |
3-point hitch won’t lift | Hydraulic system | Low/old fluid, leaking hose, bad valve | Change oil, fix leaks, rebuild/replace valve |
Headlights won’t work | Lighting/electrical | Blown bulb, corroded connector, bad switch | Replace bulb, clean connector, swap switch |
Weak or no engine crank | Starting system | Dead starter, weak battery, bad cables | Replace starter, charge battery, clean/replace cables |
Error Code Explanations (Text)
- No lights/no crank: Usually points to electrical faults—start with fuses and battery.
- Glow plug light issues: Prolonged or stuck-on lights suggest relay failures or a plug which is shorted (often with a burnt odor in the relay).
- Battery/charging: A lit battery indicator means the alternator is not charging—inspect the alternator, belt tension, and wiring.
- Temp warning: Hot running is an immediate concern; always stop and check coolant and fan as continuous overheating can cause engine damage.
- PTO/hitch issues: Often hydraulic in nature—low oil or air in system. PTO mechanisms are mechanical but sometimes fail due to misadjustment or rust.
- Lighting: Old wiring, corroded contacts, or worn switches are very common on tractors of 30+ years.
How to Reset or Fix “Codes”
Most analog issues clear immediately after fixing the root cause (replacing a fuse, adjusting fluid levels, or swapping a relay). No scan tool is needed. For persistent problems, methodically test each component: battery, then fuses, then switches and relays, referencing a wiring diagram as needed.
Ford 1710 Reviews
Owner Experiences
Positive Attributes
Durable Engine and Drivetrain:
Many reviewers highlight that the Ford 1710’s Shibaura-built diesel has exceptional longevity with proper service, often running for thousands of hours trouble-free.
Simplicity and Accessibility:
Maintenance is easy thanks to basic mechanical and electrical systems—farm owners enjoy the “fixable by anyone” reputation. All major service points are accessible with basic hand tools.
Versatility:
Whether running a mower, blade, tiller, or loader, the 1710 handles a variety of attachments confidently. Owners particularly like its 4WD in rough conditions.
Parts Availability:
Given the shared components between Ford and New Holland, and thriving aftermarket options, most replacement parts are still easy to access.
Negative Points
Age-Related Wear:
Hydraulic leaks, worn bushings, and tired wiring are signs of age, but most parts are repairable.
Manual Steering (in base models):
Heavy loader or front implements are much harder to steer without the optional power steering kit.
Lack of Modern Features:
No digital gauges, error codes, or comfort enhancements. The tradeoff is simplicity and low long-term cost.
Sample Owner Quotes
“I’ve had my 1710 for over 20 years. It’s the most reliable machine on the farm. Change your fluids, bleed air after filter swaps, and don’t let leaks go too long—she’ll run forever.”
“Parts are still pretty easy to find. I fixed a PTO problem last year and had it mowing later that afternoon!”
“No-frills, no computers, just a rock-solid little tractor.”
Conclusion
The Ford 1710 remains an outstanding example of classic, reliable compact tractors. Its simple engineering means maintenance and repairs are approachable for most owners, problems are generally straightforward to diagnose, and parts remain available thanks to Ford’s legacy and shared platforms with New Holland.
Most issues are age-related rather than design flaws and can be solved with regular checks and timely fixes. While it lacks digital error codes, the operator-friendly dashboard and intuitive mechanical layout ensure you’re never in the dark when troubleshooting. If you’re looking for a workhorse compact tractor that will last for decades, the Ford 1710 continues to earn loyal fans around the world.

I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect lawn mower for their needs.