Lot 242: 1969 David Brown tractor at the Mathewsons December 2026 auction

What to check on any David Brown Selectamatic tractor

• Find the serial number and check it against the claimed year. Sources disagree on where to look: TractorData places the 990 number on the right side of the frame and the 1200 number on the clutch housing, while owners report plates near the seat or above the lift levers. Photograph whatever you find.
• TractorData lists starting serial numbers by year for each model, which gives a rough dating check. For example, the 1200 started at 700001 in 1967.
• The engine number is a separate check and an engine change is common on working tractors.
• Ask whether the tractor has a V5C. Many working tractors were never road registered or lost their registration. The Ferguson Club's guidance, which reflects common practice for all makes, is that DVLA needs photographs of each side, photographs or rubbings of serial and engine numbers, form V55/5 and identity documents. An original number can be reclaimed with form V765 and documentary evidence such as an old logbook or county council record; otherwise an age-related number is issued.
• The David Brown Tractor Club offers a tractor registrations contact for members.
• For an imported tractor, a NOVA notification to HMRC is needed before DVLA will register it.

Full David Brown Selectamatic tractor buyer's guide →

Checks for this car

• Look for evidence supporting the hours.
• Check the hydraulics.
• Check the tyres.