I have been a contributor to MTF since 2005. You are correct. MTF has transformed. It is loaded up with pop-up Ads, difficult to navigate, and posting is tricky. Their Cub Cadet traffic has greatly diminished and now is mainly focused on the newer Cubs.
I look at their & other sites (WFM) formats, and I will keep OCC "Ad FREE". To me nothing is more aggravating, than trying to respond or read a post and get bombarded with Ads.
Thanks for the kind words and support.