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

[part-time-Farmer-NC]

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?

 

[ruffdog]

Here is a thread for you to read:

Convert a gas Engine to a Diesel Engine?

 

[part-time-Farmer-NC]

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.

 

[jeff9366]

Do you currently have a Kioti DK45Se or not?

 

[redman135]

Have you looked at quick-hitch systems?

 

[oldnslo]

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.

 

[scootr]

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.

 

[Farmer495]

I'd just buy a diesel tractor. Small 2wd diesel utilities from the 70s and 80s aren't exactly highly desired models now.

 

[rangerfredbob]

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...

 

[mikester]

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.

 

[2manyrocks]

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?

I don't own one, but there are some posts here saying that the Kujke engine used on TYM/Branson tractors is still a mechanical diesel engine if that is really what you are looking for. I'm not saying it's an engine that will fit into an 8n. I'm just saying the Kujke engine apparently hasn't been ruined with a lot of electronics.

 

[Hay Dude]

Anything is possible, if you have the money and resources.
I have learned over the years that when you buy a piece of equipment, try to buy one with features that are as close to exactly what you want as possible.

This eliminates additional expenses of conversion and helps minimize regrets of not buying exactly what you wanted.

As for the OP, I would sell and buy the diesel model you want, unless the currently owned gas version has sentimental value. Trying to retrofit a modern and non-brand matched diesel into an older tractor sounds like a difficult and long term project.

 

[garry1p]

Is it possible "absolutely" if you have the time to do the research, locate and buy parts, equipment to fabricate what you can't source and finally money.

Once you start a project like this if you document what you are doing and post with pictures you are in the right place to get plenty of help. The scope and breadth of the folks on this site is amazing.

 

[4570Man]

It’s possible sure but almost definitely not worth it. If the goal was a winter tinkering project that’s one thing but if the goal was saving money you’d be way ahead to just buy a tractor that’s already diesel.