1968 Dart question....

Starting to make a little more sense now that it wasn't a simple straight trade.

I don't know where the value of $68,000 came from. Seems high as a quick search found them in poor to average condition from $1,000 to $5,000 probably likely about the same value of the Dart.

Dan's story doesn't make much sense. Your dad and him do what seems like should be a legit straight trade at least in value. Then your dad has to fix up the tractor and split the money with Dan. Maybe Dan was going to bank roll the project or did bank roll the project already by prepaying for some or all of your dads services and or parts.

You guys end up in court over a $1,000 tractor and a $1,000 Dart and you both will be losing money.

Sorry to hear about the mess you inherited. I really do hope it works out for the best for you and your step mother.