IMO,you can't go wrong with a large frame,very well built,the front bolster issue can be a problem but I wouldn't let that be a deterrent, some will say the 1250 was under powered,but I had one for years and was very happy,the twin cylinder ones did perform better,I think you'll be happy with your purchase,but for warned,one will lead to another,lol

 

Let me put it in perspective: I have over 100 tractors, the 2 Bolens 1250s are my favorites. They are big, strong machines that are very easy to operate. Once you've mastered the the right pedal controll, you will find all other tractor controll methods annoying and slow. As an old engineer, I don't feel that the tractor is underpowered. The engine and hydraulics of a machine must not be strong enough to damage it. The Bolens engineers knew what they were doing. I've had Bolens for over 25 years. The only one that I've seen with a front axle problem, was because the kid running it, had run into a stump at full speed. To repair it, I only had to replace a few bolts. Unless the price is rediculous, I would be all over that tractor. I don't have a tiller for my LFs and would love to find one. Download the Manuals for the 1250 from our Manuals Section(3 for free per day). Good Luck, Rick

 

Douchal,

I have a 1250 and an HT23, and I like them both. I do find the 1250 lacking power for snowblowing wet snow, but that being said, as I have ramped up my snowblowing capabilities, winter here keeps upping the ante!

The 1250 was my first large frame. It had sat outside in the PO's yard when he became disappointed that it did not seem to have enough power to mow the weeds in his yard (there is a bind in the mower that is the problem). We charged the battery and it started on old gas in the tank. I was not a fan of Wisconsin engines, but am now.

I tend to think the 12 and 14 hp large frames are under appreciated.

I think it will be fine for tilling, but my tilling experience is with sandy soil. ymmv. Be sure you get the driveshaft for the tiller!

I'm planning on making a sleeve hitch for mine so I can pull a plow and cultivator (and what ever) with it. I understand the gearing in the rear end is a lower ratio then the higher HP large frames.

Regards,

Doug

 

I think most of the 1250 front axle boulster problems come from operator abuse and running a too heavy two-stage snow blower. I wouldn't think the load on the front axle during tilling would be any problem at all.

 

I have owned about a half dozen of the 1250 model a couple dozen tube frame and around 10 of the larger large frames- my favorite for tilling is the 1250- plenty power I till at around 1/2 throttle and I really like the eaton 12 hydro as you have the neutral drive park selector- the other nice thing I prefer id the narrower front tires- steers nice and easy- you won`t have any problem with the front bolster- especially with the tiller hanging off the back -hard to beat the offset tiller -they don`t have the tightest turning radius- but with the treadel pedal- control it`s inmaterial- once you use that tractor- I think you will like it good luck!

 

I think most of the 1250 front axle boulster problems come from operator abuse and running a too heavy two-stage snow blower. I wouldn't think the load on the front axle during tilling would be any problem at all.

Cant run a two stage on a 1250... Most front axle bolster problems on any large frame come one that model did not come with the axle stop that keep the axle from twisting and breaking the bolster. Or that the stops were not properly adjusted. The two stage did add to the problem on later large frames. The 1250s are great tractor if you know how to use them. I have 4 1250 and use the one I have ton to blow snow.

 

I'm thinking you could add the axle stops if need be,I have a couple sets laying around

 

I have a 1250 and like it. It will certainly do tilling for you with no power issues. As folks have mentioned the bolster issue is mostly from operators abusing the tractor. I hope that you get a good deal if you go through with it.

 

I just picked up a 1250 with the plan of putting a johnson FEL on it. Does anyone have details on something I can do to reinforce it to prevent it from breaking?

 

I just picked up a 1250 with the plan of putting a johnson FEL on it. Does anyone have details on something I can do to reinforce it to prevent it from breaking?

Assuming it's a Johnson 14, they have lift capacity of 500 lbs. Use good judgement and you shouldn't have any issues.

 

I just picked up a 1250 with the plan of putting a johnson FEL on it. Does anyone have details on something I can do to reinforce it to prevent it from breaking?

I would add the axle stops on it,to prevent the front axle from rocking back and forth

 

yes I would agree with Rick on the axel stops- here is one of mine with a Johnson 14-works nice like I say I prefer the narrower tires up front -steers real easy

 

I don't know what you guys mean by axle stops. Anyone have a picture or something?

 

yes I would agree with Rick on the axel stops- here is one of mine with a Johnson 14-works nice like I say I prefer the narrower tires up front -steers real easy

Nice looking machine, :thumbs: it looks like it is ready for some serious work.

 

I don't know what you guys mean by axle stops. Anyone have a picture or something?

Go to our manuals section,Bolens large frame parts manual,scroll down to the 2086,open it up,go to figure 6,part number 14,part number 1722625,they sit right behind the front axle assembly

 

yes I would agree with Rick on the axel stops- here is one of mine with a Johnson 14-works nice like I say I prefer the narrower tires up front -steers real easy

Another sweet rig, BolensBoy60!

 

I've been following this thread with great interest. I've had large frames for better part of 25 years. I've got 6 at the present time, never broke a bolster. My 1250 has a Johnson Model 14 loader on it now, so Rick's recommendation of installing the steering axle stops is super idea. The 1477 and 1886's have them, why not. I've got a 1886 parts carcass, so off I go. I noticed the frames are drilled and tapped on both my 1477 and 1886, no holes on a 1250 frame. To Drill and tap the frame means the bolster has to be removed to drill and tap the front bolt on both sides. There's no room under the bolster to nut and bolt the stops in the front hole. There might be room for the rear bolts, but definitely not the front. So to make a long story short, I'll save this project for another day, if I ever have to remove my bolster. To answer the original question of the thread, You'll like the 1250, plenty of power, the foot pedal hydrostat control makes using the tractor a pleasure. Very durable machines to say the least .-AL.