8N with a Flathead 239???

[California]

Seen on Craigslist:

Flathead 239 V8 Tractor, $2500

Is this a toy, or would it be useful as a working tractor?

 

[GPintheMitten]

It would do work but with all the limitations of an 8N just more power.

 

[ovrszd]

This was a popular modification 40 years ago. I've saw 2. Issue was cooling if doing field work. The ideal situation was into an 8N with Over/Under. With the added rpms the V-8 would turn the tractor would run faster in high gear than the steering could handle!!!!!!

Another popular mod was a V8 into a Farmall M. Saw that mod twice in my life.

Also saw a Dodge V8 mini-hemi stuffed into a Massey Harris, but can't remember the model.

 

[California]

Issue was cooling if doing field work.

You're right. I had forgotten how flatheads ran hot even before a heavy load. That thing would need a custom HD radiator to do any useful tractor work and even that might not be enough.

 

[Soundguy]

Remember, the pro, axles and rear were designed around a 30hp idea.

 

[Kirk-NJ]

for that price I'm surprised it's not long gone.

 

[ovrszd]

for that price I'm surprised it's not long gone.

Me too. You couldn't build it for that.

As for the useability of it. I don't think the builder had any intent of doing heavy work with it.

 

[California]

I wasn't thinking seriously of buying it, just admiring it. If its all gone through as claimed, it would be in far better condition than I've seen for an 8N in that price range.

And I'm imagining the sweet racket that flathead would make even with a light load such as a mower.

Usability? It does seem better suited for a parade toy than a working tool.