Looking at a 8N

[bigrigford]

We are looking at a Ford 8N to buy. What should we be checking? It has a front bucket that runs from a front pump out of the front of the engine and works find. The 3 point hitch has a half broken clevis lever so the owner is using a chain on that side. We found replacement ones L/R on ebay. The rear tires are new and the fronts are car tires. The electrical system has been converted to 12 volt wirt electronic ignition. It starts great and runs very smooth. owner is asking $3500 Its in Ontario CDN


His add
( Ford 8N with front end loader, 3pt hitch and pto. Many upgrades including 12v electrical system, electronic ignition, calcium in tires, block heater, snow chains for the tires. New alternator, radiator, front tires and battery in 2012. Very good condition. Starts easily and runs well.)

 

[Kirk-NJ]

In my area from what you described it would go for less than half that amount. For that amount you could get a later model tractor with many more options.

Kirk

 

[Larro Darro]

Welcome to the forum. That price does sound way too high. I looked at a 40hp Case-O-Matic for $1700 last month. Whatever you do, don't rush into it. The more you look, the better off you will be. Use craigsist.com, tractorhouse.com, etc... to help you learn the price range for your area.

 

[Soundguy]

I agree.. a little expensive.

Probably get a hundred series witht hat money.

I'd only go with that if I was in a pinch and needed it right then for a specific job.. then I'd hope to sell it and get the correct tractor..

 

[Cpjlube]

I agree with the previous reply. That seems a bit high for an 8n that needs work. The tires and the three point are just the most obvious faults. There are sure to be more, hard to find, issues.

I think that N series tractors are limited as loader tractors, even with a front mount hydro pump. If you are looking to use the loader alot, you may want to buy something newer. From my experience car tires on the front will make steering with a loaded bucket a real bear. Plus, most Ns just don't have a low enough gear to move slow when maneuvering around using a loader.

Just my opinion. Others experience may differ.

Chuck

 

[Soundguy]

it's a catch 22.. the car tires are almost needed for the laod.. but yeah.. will be a BEAR to steer, and will wear all the components out.

at least with a front pump you can idle around to get a low speed, unless it has a sherman under or combo.. depending on pump displacement.. idle may be enough for loader usage and speed.

still not my choice of tractor .. unless no other possibilities.

 

[bigrigford]

Here in Ontario and Quebec $3000 is the average price for a N series in running condition. The front bucket will be used mostly for snow removable. But thanks for your thoughts.

 

[Soundguy]

ouch on $$

guess it's like selling water in the desert....

 

[bigrigford]

What type of gas do you suggest using in these old tractors? Should one stay away from Regular gas with 10% ethanol and just stay with super with no ethanol?

 

[RDrancher]

I don't think the design of the steering box components were ever made to take the weight of a loader, so check the steering with a full bucket load. If the steering box is worn at all, the loader can bind it up and you may not be able to steer it. After I added a loader to mine, I had to look for a rock to bounce the front tire off of to unload the steering so I could turn it. Rebuilding the box wasn't cheap.

Edited to add: I sold mine for 5K before I left California. Value is all about location.