The Fordson Tractor Pages Forum

hi i have been a major owner for some years and post on there forum, i have just bought a 1954 dexta to go with the major.
it is in good condition but engine is a little tired, last owner has been using ether to start, and engine breathes from breather and dipstick.
i am guessing new rings and liners or is there more to it than that.

HI super 6 glad to see after the majors you have decided to get the crem de la crem of all fordsons the, little ole dexta ,you now have a tractor i dont think you will find it to be a54 mybe a little later , im thinking after 57 , it sounds as if you might have to rebuild the engine if it is hard to start and as you say it is breathing very badly,but you might get away without doing this depends what you need it for. they can run the same as the major for long enough with out a rebuild but its really up to the prerson them selves. have fun anyway Gerry

super6,
Dextas have dry sleeves, not wet sleeves like a Major. They are pressed in and are considerably harder to change than a Major's.

would it be worth just doing rings.
also has anyone tried ametech engine restorer they advertise in all the tractor magazines.

With a Dexta engine you are best to do everything. They were originally fitted with Cord rings which were long lasting but when they wore up everything was worn, bores, pistons, bearings.

I would do a job on her. New liners, pistons, the lot. If you try and do a cheaper job you will only have to strip her down again in another year.