Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel?

   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #1  

part-time-Farmer-NC

Gold Member
Joined
Oct 7, 2024
Messages
349
Tractor
Kioti DK45Se
Hey guys/gals I been thinking about getting another tractor (changing implements is too hard... LOLOLOLOL :) ). Thinking of the older non computerized models but reallly like the power/reliability of diesel (and power steering). So I'm thinking, could I get an older gas model and convert it to diesel? Would the transmission bolt up? Is it just swap the motors if it all bolts up or is there other things to consider?

I know the make/model would help but at this time I am just on the look out for a good tractor with a bad motor in the 30-45 ish hp range. I have liked Ford's, MF, IH etc but I am open to other american made tractors.

So as a starter... I have an old 47 8N has a gas motor not running. I think its rated for 6 volts. Was planning to sell it and get something more heftier and had power steering. Is it possible to convert that over to diesel?
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel?
  • Thread Starter
#3  
Thanks good thread. I hadn't thought about the other components of a swap. I guess it would be better to sell and buy an old good running Diesel like I want to end up with.
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #4  
Do you currently have a Kioti DK45Se or not?
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #5  
Have you looked at quick-hitch systems?
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #6  
I did that with a 5000 ford in the mid 80’s. The select-o-speed tranny died on our diesel and gas engine died on the neighbors with the manual transmission so I bought his tractor and put our engine in his frame. I don’t remember any major problems in doing that. Everything bolted right up.
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #7  
When it comes to major conversions it's usually more cost effective to sell one and buy the other unless you are a man of many talents and means with more time than money... in which case start a thread we'd love to follow along.
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #8  
I'd just buy a diesel tractor. Small 2wd diesel utilities from the 70s and 80s aren't exactly highly desired models now.
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #9  
I did that with a 5000 ford in the mid 80’s. The select-o-speed tranny died on our diesel and gas engine died on the neighbors with the manual transmission so I bought his tractor and put our engine in his frame. I don’t remember any major problems in doing that. Everything bolted right up.
On the Fords in the 2000 to say 7000 series the changes are very little over the years and gas vs diesel was simply a different cylinder head and pistons I believe, the 3 cylinders were 172 to 201 cubic inch and from there they added a cylinder for the 5000, turbo for a 7000, made it a 6 cylinder for 8000 and turbo for 9000, all diesels had same pistons and injectors I believe (there's some physical differences but flow is close, we've swapped short for tall in the same engine mix matched).

Myself I'm hoping to find a 3000 diesel for reasonable to be a step beyond my little Kubota... I'd settle for a 2000 but they're less common...
 
   / Is it possible to replace a gas engine on an old tractor for a diesel? #10  
Yes it is possible if you have the time, money and inclination to do it.

Since you have to ask this question to anonymous users on a user group then no YOU can't do it. Stick to making you-tub videos of yourself talking.

If you can do it then you would do it and post your results to show off your new hobby to anonymous users on a user group. You will become rich and famous and Johnny Carson will interview you on TV.
 

Tractor & Equipment Auctions

2008 Ford F-250 Lariat (A44501)
2008 Ford F-250...
Hydraulic reservoir has hole but works (A44571)
Hydraulic...
2011 MAGNUM PRODUCTS LIGHT TOWER/WATER TANK TRAILER (A45046)
2011 MAGNUM...
3pt 12' Offset Disc (A44502)
3pt 12' Offset...
2010 Ford F-550 Bucket Truck, VIN # 1FDAX5GR9AEA21656 (A44391)
2010 Ford F-550...
Chery 20' x 20' Steel Carport (A44502)
Chery 20' x 20'...
 
Top