In our used buying piece on the 6.6-litre Massey Ferguson 7700 and 7700S short wheelbase tractors (profi 02/2024) we did not cover the long wheelbase 7.4 litre models. These were offered alongside the SWB tractors from 2015 until being replaced by the current 8S models in 2021. Developing a nominal 215 to 255hp, these LWB 7700 models look to have become a sought after used buy.

KEEPING IT BRIEF

  • AGCO 7.4 litre power unit has proven dependable
  • 7700S tractors have trailer air brakes as standard
  • Mechanical cab suspension standard with Active option
  • Quadlink front suspension standard
  • 7724 and 7726 (and S variants) offer up to 50km/hr at 1,900rpm on 42 inch rear tyres 
  • Engine power boost of up to 25hp on all variants
  • Four-speed pto and decompression levers for the hydraulic spool valves (here’s looking at you Fendt 820 series…)
  • Best-selling model 7726S Dyna VT sought after but increasingly hard to find used with decent hours

Whilst the 6.6-litre Massey Ferguson 7700S models morphed into the current 7S range in 2021, the large frame, long wheelbase LWB 7700S tractors did not enter a MF 7S phase, instead being replaced by the MF 8S models. Choosing between a post 2021 6.6-litre 7S or 7.4-litre 8S is eased as they are very different tractors. This was not the case for a used buyer considering the earlier LWB 7700. Not only do these models ‘look’ much the same as their SWB siblings, but the specs are also similar in some areas too. 

They also followed the same update path, the 7722 (215hp), 7724 (235hp) and 7726 (255hp) models in production from 2015 to 2018 and later S models (2018 to 2021) matching the shift from Stage IV to Stage V engine emissions standards and a move from 500 hour to 600-hour engine service intervals. 

Another detail change between 7700 (left) and 7700S models is to the Datatronic 4 display. Both do the same job, with the display coming as standard on 7700S Efficient models.

More than just a bigger engine

SWB and LWB 7700 tractors differ not just in the engine department. The rear axles, for example, are of a higher duty strength on the larger models as is reflected in their respective rear lift capacities: up to 9,600kg for a SWB 7720 versus up to 9,950kg for the 7724 and 7726. LWB models are heavier too, the listed base weights for the 7724 and 7726 starting from 7,800kg against 7,100kg for the SWB 7720. As an aside, the current 8S models weigh upwards of 8,700kg. 

In terms of spec, the entry level Essential pack was not offered in the UK on the LWB tractors, instead the Efficient package was the entry point, having enough standard kit to suit most needs. But the top-spec MF Exclusive proved increasingly popular on later models. 

There were also various ‘special’ packs offered during the production run. This included the Next package on the last of the 7726S tractors with the choice of a black finish in place of Massey red. Then there were the likes of long established Massey Ferguson dealers Peacock and Binnington that celebrated its 125th anniversary back in 2019 by offering the 7726S in a fetching gold with an uprated spec as part of the package.

Basic specification outline

  • Engine Power Management (EPM) will boost power by up to 25hp, with torque also getting a lift 
  • 24×24 forward, reverse Dyna-6 semi-powershift gearbox or Dyna VT stepless dual range transmission offering 0–28km/hr field and 0–40 or 50km/hr transport speeds (latter common)
  • Quadlink front axle and mechanical cab suspension standard
  • MF 900 series loader-ready from the factory
  • Up to 9,950kg rear lift capacity (9,600 max. on rarer 7722 and 7722S)
  • Four speed 540/540E/1,000/1,000E rear pto but three speed 540/540E/1,000 or 540E/1,000/1,000E available as a rare UK option
  • 4,000kg Cat III front linkage and 1,000 front pto default with delete option
  • 600/70 R30 front and 710/70 R38 tyres as standard, but others size options could be fitted
  • 430 litre diesel and 40 litre AdBlue 
  • Load-sensing hydraulics Dyna-6 is 150l/min while Dyna-VT gets 190l/min
Although most LWB 7700 models will have a front linkage, some may have just a weight pack. Even wear on the front tyres is a good sign but if the tyres are new have the tracking checked.

Before you start looking

Every business will know what follows. Selecting a used tractor can be a time-consuming business. This can become even more involved when looking at a model that went out of production some six years ago like a 7700S. But as tractors have become increasingly purchased via a five or even six year finance package, a few 7700S tractors may still trickle in as a rare one-owner trade in. Tractors like this can make a really sound used buy as they will typically have been sold and serviced by the original supplying dealer. 

As to older 7700 tractors, the youngest of which will now be nudging 10 years old, these will be a rare find at a franchised dealer. This means you may need to look at second hand traders and private sales. Of course, you will pay a pro-rata premium for a main dealer sourced older tractor but in return this should mean you are investing in a machine that has had a thorough pre-sales inspection and has a known history. A used 7700 of any description will still require a chunky investment and a dealer will be keen not only to win your business but hope to retain you as a customer for service and parts too.

Factory pictures that illustrate subtle changes made between 7700 and 7700S Efficient controls, later ‘S’ Dyna 6 models having the option to replace the T lever armrest controller with a Multipad joystick. A further ‘S’ option is a Fieldstar 5 terminal. This offers ISO connectivity and can be used as a camera display.

Rare find so seek help

A good starting point is to work with your local Massey dealer and talk through what you want. They will know when to expect a trade-in model or possibly source a tractor for you but good 7726S tractors are getting harder to find. 

Tractors for sale outside the MF dealer network are of course worth considering. A tidy tractor taken in as a part exchange and offered by a competing dealer could also be worth a look. As it is easier for a dealer to sell to the trade than retail an off brand product themselves, it follows they will only consider selling on a sound tractor. Dealers specialising in older tractors can also be a good source of higher hour models. 

This all boils down to you needing to invest a bit of time in working out what you want, talking to your local dealer and establishing how much you are prepared to invest in ensuring your used buy is maintained properly. 

Know your basic spec needs

The internet makes it relatively easy to trawl through various used tractor listings. This will provide you with a good idea of prices and model availability. You can then use this to home in on more local buys. A good way to save time is to outline a few key must have features.

How the tractor is set up will vary, as will the tyres fitted. 540/65 R30 front and 650/65 R42 rear tyres were widely chosen as were bar rear axles. Note how the front wheel dish is set to narrow the front track.

Points that can be overlooked can include:

Tyres. The standard size fitted to a LWB 7700 will be 600/70 R30 front and 710/70 R38. Will this suit your needs? Other tyre choices may be fitted so check. Also make sure you know what tyres are fitted. A new set of Ascenso tyres will cost a lot less than a set of Michelins. 

Trailer brakes. 7700S models have air trailer brakes as standard with ABS connectivity an option. 7700 models have hydraulic trailer brakes as standard, with air an option.

Guidance system. An Auto-Guide 3000 TopDock receiver is a standard fit on LWB 7700 tractors, this system offering compatibility with EGNOS correction signals. As you would expect 7700S models have more recent specs, with a choice of NovAtel or Trimble receivers. The compatibility of these units with any system you may already have or wish to tap into will vary so check. 

Multifunction joystick. Both Efficient and Exclusive packages can have options added such as a joystick. The latter is great if you want to fit a loader, but it can also be used to control a front linkage. 

Active cab suspension. The main plus of this system is that it can be adjusted to suit operator preferences. 

Electronic and mechanical spools. Up to five rear and two front remote valves can be fitted, with a choice of electronic or mechanical control. As a used buyer you will get what was originally specified.

Seat. The seat fitted should relate to specification package, but the more desirable air suspended automatic seat with heating fitted to Exclusive spec models was an option on Efficient tractors. 

PTO: Check the pto speeds. Four-speeds common but three-speeds were offered.

Hydraulic flow. Dyna 6 tractors get a 150l/min load-sensing pump. Dyna VT tractors 190l/min. 

A used buy will be easier to check if it has been cleaned. As these tractors are likely to be older, take your time to look over items such as coolant hoses. These may need renewing if age hardened. The 7.4-litre engines are not susceptible to leaks, so be careful if you spot oil and coolant weeps from anywhere under the bonnet. Check the base of all radiators and coolers for corrosion.

Key checks – pretty much the same as any tractor

Good news. There are no specific red flag problems associated with 7722 through to 7726 S tractors.  Bad news? None really but that is not the same as suggesting you can drop your guard when considering a used buy. Wear and tear will take its toll as will a lack of good care and maintenance. 

The Dyna 6 powershift transmission packages have been in production for a good many years now and produced in the GIMA facility in Beauvais. As a rule, these transmissions are long-lived and relatively trouble free but a broken third gear synchro and worn clutch packs are not unheard of on high hour tractors. When trying a Dyna 6 equipped tractor, work through all the operating modes and swap between ranges. If you feel jolts or a change is hesitant it could be that the controlling software needs a tweak. Equally, a clutch pack or a synchro could be failing. 

Dyna VT transmissions are made by Fendt but operated via Massey Ferguson developed software. Again, these transmissions are not known for specific problems but if something does go wrong, it can be expensive to put right. A key to longevity is keeping on top of maintenance and ensuring the oil and filters are replaced at the requisite 1,000/1,200 hour intervals. A dealer service will ensure the transmission is purged of old oil and that the software is properly set up to work the transmission. Just draining the old oil and popping in new filters is just part of the job. No transmission will last forever, so be careful if looking over a high hour tractor. If the transmission clonks or is not smooth in operation it is a warning of potential wear.

Moving to the engine, the AGCO 7.4 litre engine has a proven Sisu heritage and is used in an albeit updated form in 8S.305  models where it peaks at a shade over 300hp and develops 1,280Nm of torque between 1,000 and 1,500rpm. In the 7726, 7726S it develops a boosted 280hp and 1,050Nm of torque at 1,500rpm. In other words, the basic block is not over worked. 

Dependability should be good on even a higher hour model but check with a dealer if looking at a tractor that is some way north of 6,500 hours. The injectors and top end may benefit from some attention. Take time looking for leaks and pull out the radiator pack, looking for evidence of debris having been allowed to build up. If left it can corrode the base of the cooling package – rare but not unheard of. If the engine looks dirty it shows a lack of care. Also check around the water pump.

Quadlink suspensions are liable to wear, particularly on tractors that have done a lot of road work with a heavy load up front. On a test drive, listen out for any noises from the front end and check the dampers for any leaks. If the front end feels lacking in control, the accumulators may need to be replaced. Also check the track rods and look for uneven tyre wear. If the tractor has new tyres ask if the tracking has been checked.

A well maintained tractor will allow the rear linkage settings to be adjusted and all grease points should show evidence of attention. The valve covers should be intact and check the couplings for cleanliness. Also look for play and ensure the top link comes with the tractor and that the hitch balls are all present. It is easy to pick up wear in the lower links. Slight play in the bush ends is to be expected but severe wear will show that tractor has done a lot of heavy lifting.

Around the back of the tractor, look over the rear linkage and check the original top-link is with the tractor. Adjust the check chains and ensure the linkage and ball hitch are in good shape. The pick-up hitch is a good clue to past use, so look for wear and check the hitch locks in its raised position. Have a good nose around the remote valves for leaks. 

A well cared for cab can present in as new condition following a good valet, with a cover helping to disguise wear in the seat. Look underneath to see if the cushion is in good order. When taking a test drive, listen out for any unusual noises. The mechanical cab suspension bushes can deteriorate over time, the more advanced Active design tending to wear better. If a Dyna VT transmission clonks between range changes, ask a few questions. Although dependable, a CVT gearbox is not immune age and hour related problems, particularly on tractors that may have missed routine dealer servicing. Dyna 6 gearboxes are typically tough but at high hours wear can again start to raise its ugly head. Dyna 6 wear, or operator abuse at lower hours, can start to show if the synchro in third gear plays up. You can detect this in a drive as a poor change.

In the cab, ensure the seat pumps up and adjusts to your weight. If a cover is fitted, look at the condition of the seat cushion underneath. The cab should be clean and look for ingrained dirt around regularly used controls. Ensure the trim panels are in good order and free from tears and cracks. Try all the work lights and work through the Datatronic display menus. The type of display fitted will vary according to specification and model year, but all offer the same core functions.

All 7700 and 7700S models have pressure release levers for the remote valves.

A Fieldstar 5 terminal would have been a popular option on later 7700S tractors and is a decent design. The system can be retrofitted and offers a link to hands free steering and a view of images from optional camera systems. 

Even when new, the cab and main dash were starting to look dated. On the plus side, all the basic info, as on the Dyna VT model’s display, is clear and easy to read. On a used buy, check the display shows the transmission range selected or when swapping between the Dyna 6 transmission settings.

Check under the wheel arches for evidence of transmission leaks and around the battery box for charred wiring. Debris in this area can cause a short.

Finally, make sure the brakes are in good order. If they make a noise when applied hard or the tractor does not pull up straight be careful.  Brakes on tractors used for fast haulage can suffer heavy wear and putting them right can cost a lot of money. Not just a big Massey thing, this applies to any make of model of tractor.

If the cab smells it could be that the cabin air filters have not been changed. On a test run, crank up the air conditioning. If it does not get cold the system will need a check. Massey Ferguson dealers should prepare a used buy to a high standard, a point to note if you are looking over a tractor ahead of it going through the workshop.

You can glean a great deal from the looks of the tractor. A dealer should go to great lengths to present a used buy in the best possible order. If you are looking at a private buy expect the seller to have made some effort to present the tractor well. A scruffy tractor in an equally scruffy yard could be a sign to look at something else!

Apart from changes to the decal position, the front lights and the inclusion of an S ahead of the model number, you would be hard pressed to tell the difference between LWB 7700 and 7700S models.

What to pay

Entry level pricing for an early 8,000 hour plus 2015-plate 7722 will hover around £45,000 but that should secure a sound tractor that has a solid history. These variants are becoming a rare used find. More powerful 7724 and 7726 tractors will have a typical premium that will see pro-rata prices climb in increments of perhaps £5,000 to £7,500. A 2018 reg 7722 Dyna VT in top Exclusive spec with around 6,000 hours through a dealer may command more than £65,000, exceptional examples with history, even more. A low 4,500 hour 2019, 7724S  is unlikely to retail for under £70,000. We are told a late low hour 7726S Dyna VT can achieve over £120,000. 

The output of the 7.4 litre power units easily copes with the demands of wide area mowing. A used LWB 7700 could well make a great buy for work such as this, with later ‘S’ tractors having tech that is still up to more recent precision guidance. A dealer will be able to establish if a used buy will fit in with your existing systems.

Summary

If you are after a well-proven used tractor in the 200hp to 250hp power bracket, then a Massey Ferguson 7700 LWB model is worth considering. Although often criticised for their relatively dated cabs, the basics of these models stack up well. These are generally solid, reliable tractors. The caveat is that like any item of equipment they are subject to aging and wear and tear. Even the youngest of examples were last made at the tail end of 2021.

Dyna 6 models can offer a good bang for the buck and make a great choice if you are looking for a ‘simpler’ tractor that may be more repair friendly some time down the line. Dyna VT models, particularly a late 7726S, are the most sought after but you will need deep pockets to secure a good one. Keep it properly serviced and looked after, and it should remain a faithful work horse.

With grateful thanks to: Lee Say, Peacock and Binnington, Selby; Howard Sherren, RVW Pugh, Holmes Chapel; Lindsay Haddon, Massey Ferguson UK and Edd Mowbray.

James de Havilland

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