Ford 8N - What to look for

[MyBX25d]

I have a friend that is looking at buying a Ford 8N tractor. Are there certain things that he should be looking for that are model specific problems. I am trying to help him with a little basic knowledge, but have no experience on 8N's.

 

[deerseeker001]

Welcome from Wisconsin

 

[SCWOOD]

I sold one for $2200. Look for oil in radiator, look for water on the transmission dip stick,has it been switched to 12v, look for smoke when running,make sure 3pt hitch will lift a load (not just the arms)if the load stays up after shutting tractor off ,check both brake pedals, how new are the tires.Don't be fooled by new paint! Tractor in rough shape but will run $1200 -$1500.Good shape $1800-$2500(with good tires)fully restored $3200-$3800! This is why people don't restore tractors for resale ( you will have way more into it than you can get for it and that is just parts)

 

[MyBX25d]

Thnaks SCWOOD! I will make a list of those things to look for.

 

[Poopdeck Pappy]

If he buys the 8n, tell him to buy an overrunning clutch for it. Here's an example (although I'm not sure if this one is the right size for an 8n or not):

SpeeCo Over-running Clutch Adapter, Male Spline 1-1/8 in. x 6 - Tractor Supply Co.

 

[GManBart]

All of the things previously mentioned and a few more. You'll want to note whether it has the distributor at the front of the engine (between the block and the fan) or out the side of the block near the front...nothing wrong with either, but the side distributor models are later, and have a bit more power. Check for play in the front end/steering....many are so loose the front wheels flop left and right while you're driving straight. The really big thing is to check the oil pressure when it's at operating temperature. The 8N never had a great oil pump, and with a little bit of wear, can barely put out enough pressure to keep things working. Warm, at idle, you should still see at least something like 15PSI, and probably 30-40 at anything significantly over idle.....any less and it means the pump and/or bearings are worn out.

Also, keep in mind that there are a lot of Franken-8s out there that are part 8N, part 9N....it should have a 4spd transmission, and rear wheels that are one-piece where the 9N is 3spd and two-piece rear wheels. I'd also make sure to look on the inside of the rear wheels to see if there is any evidence of oil leaking....not an expensive fix, but something he can use for negotiating the price.

 

[MyBX25d]

Thanks guys! With this list of things to look for I think he can avoid buying something he regrets. My first tractor was a AC WD that ended up having serious issues shortly after buying it, am just hoping his first tractor experience isn't the same. With these things to look for he should be fine. This was only my second post, but I read tons on these forums( have gained a lot of usefull info). Thank you!

 

[motownbrowne]

If he's looking at buying an 8n, my biggest piece of advice is to buy a 600 or 800 series Ford instead. Not much more money, much more useful tractor.

 

[SCWOOD]

If he buys the 8n, tell him to buy an overrunning clutch for it. Here's an example (although I'm not sure if this one is the right size for an 8n or not):

SpeeCo Over-running Clutch Adapter, Male Spline 1-1/8 in. x 6 - Tractor Supply Co.

the over-run clutch has to match the pto shaft on the tractor. Original had smaller size! I put a new pto standard size shaft & a new over-run clutch in it before I sold mine.I did not want anyone getting hurt.

 

[Soundguy]

If he's looking at buying an 8n, my biggest piece of advice is to buy a 600 or 800 series Ford instead. Not much more money, much more useful tractor.

Mega ditto here...

For the 8n, the later the better. A late 52 the best.

2 axle seals, side distributor, late steering box with oval sector covers, proof meter, etc.

And still for the same money or a hair more.. I'd go 64X , 65X, 66X, or 8-- of those models. And skip the naa/jubilee altogether due to lower parts support especially in the Hyds and castings department.