Buying Advice Looking for my second tractor

[aschwerin]

So I've been using a '51 8N for a few years now and I'm ready to upgrade. I really like the design and character of the 8N but it has a few shortcomings for my applications. I don't mind old, and I don't mind doing maintenance and light and medium repairs on a tractor (my wife jokes every time I use the 8N I first have to fix it). I'd probably look at spending in the $2,000 to $6,000 range, or even higher depending on how good of an investment it is.

Mostly I need more power. Using a 5' brush hog or 5' flail mower (a few acres each cutting) anytime except winter is abusive and tedious at best. So about 40 to 50 HP.
Second major thing is having a live PTO and hydraulics too. I would really like to control all those things individually.
I also move straw and hay bales around (a few dozen a year). Often the 8N barely has its front wheels on the ground. Also, the hydraulics often can't lift a one ton bale, though I have my tricks.
I also use it in our 1 acre garden, mostly for non-PTO "plowing". The 8N is generally too fast in 1st gear so I wouldn't mind more speeds than 4. On the other hand, the 8N seems fairly lightweight so I am not compacting the soil too much - and the wheels are at the right width for our beds. Any potential tractor definitely could not have the front wheels together in the middle.
4WD and a front end loader would be two things that are not necessary, but I am not opposed to having.

I got the 8N because it was sitting in the neighbor's pasture, and I'm just not sure what models to look at next. I'm near Fayetteville AR if anybody would want to check out the craigslist to see what is currently available in the area.

Thanks for any opinions,
Andrew

 

[KenB2920]

Selling my L3540HSTC can tractor with loader

 

[sd455dan]

If you like the 8 n and for the kind of money you mentioned-

i would suggest a Ford 3000-4000 with a loader.


The 3000 could stand to have a tougher front axle but will work,
The factory Ford 730 series loaders are plenty tough and have 2000 lbs lift capacity to full height- 120 inches.
The 175-201 cu diesels are very torquey and will easily run a 6 foot brush cutter the 3000 has 40 hp @PTO

Parts are available except for certain pieces of the SOS trans.

I paid $3850 for my 3000 with factory FEL rebuilt SOS and power steering. It has been a good tractor, so with a little looking you should be able to find one in your price range.

Most people would disagree but another option is a chinese tractor. but with your 8n experience Ford is a good way to go.

Good Luck in your search :thumbsup:

 

[MitchellB]

I was where you are at last year. I had owned my '49 8N for 16 years then and wanted to up grade into to a newer/bigger tractor to replace it. My little 8N has always been a welcomed work horse when needed, but due to her age, she has always been a little needy in the maintenance department. I did not need to spend a lot of money (mainly, I don't have it) because I only use my tractor occasionally for weekend small jobs, and few and far in-between larger jobs. I decided to stick with old Fords due to a dealership near me and parts availability supply from there and online. Also, because I like the low stance and riding position of the Fords and Fergusons too; just too many low limps to swat me off my tractor on my property and hills to negotiate. I ended up getting an '58 861D Ford because it has the two stage clutch for the PTO and a slower bottom end gear for a slower ground speed than my 8N. I also wanted a diesel engine because I had heard they are lower maintenance than a gasser. Seems like my 8N wanted to be tuned up every spring. The only thing my 861D does not have that I wanted was "new and not worn out," but even after the sudden needed repairs, I can't complain much about the price compared to the other stuff that is out there for sale.

 

[aschwerin]

Ford 4000 for $3500

Ford 3600 diesel

There is also a 2000 series with a front loader. I'm actually leaning away from a front loader. I would rarely use it, and I really don't feel like taking it on and off. Its enough work just to switch implements.

There is another Ford 4000, a little closer, for a thousand dollars more

MitchellB: Yes, I like the low stance of the 8N too. One overpriced 861 (gas) on Craigslist.

 

[aschwerin]

Compact, maneuverable is also a good thing. Its used around 30 acres, but fences, hills, and trees make for a lot of turning around.

 

[sd455dan]

Yeah- If you don't need a loader then a 3000-4000 or 800 series diesel with live or independent pto and power steering sounds like the ticket.

The factory loader on and off is a BIG job