Year and model help

[Ssd1987]

I recently inherited an old ford tractor from my grandfather and I'd like to begin restoring it. I am having trouble finding the year and model of the tractor and nobody in the family seems to remember either.

I found the serial number on the left side of the motor and have cleaned it up to bare metal but I still can't make out what it says. I've tried the pencil trick, the chalk trick and a flashlight in different angles with no success. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

[Ssd1987]

I also have several pictures but don't know how to upload them to the forum.

 

[bspeedy]

Post a couple of pictures of it and within 0.0002 seconds someone will be on here with the model name, model year, what oil viscosity works best and how to set the timing . There is a TON of knowledge on this site.

 

[quicksandfarmer]

There is a forum for vintage Fords, if you ask there they'll be all over it.

 

[ovrszd]

Welcome to TBN.

Here's a link to a website that has considerable data. Click on the model you think it is. Not having saw any pics, can't help you there.

TractorData.com - Ford tractors sorted by model

 

[murphy1244]

I think you need 5 posts to post a picture. So say hello a few times then post a pic.

 

[Ssd1987]

 

[ovrszd]

I'm guessing 8N. With that said, I think the rear wheels and fenders have been replaced by something newer. The tractordata link I posted earlier will give you the technical information on the 8N. The experts mentioned below will tell you how to analyze your Serial Number if you can ever get to read it and that will tell you the year.

I posted a link to this thread over in the New Holland Own/Operate section. The Ford "Experts" will join in. They'll get this one right away.

 

[Ssd1987]

Thanks for your help ovrszd, I'll keep an eye out for other replies. I'm looking forward to getting this tractor running and putting it to work.

 

[Stimw]

One simple check, 8-N had both brake peddles on right side. 9-N had one on each side of trans.
I bought a 1939 9-N and a 1948 8-N for $1700. 15 years ago.
Neither ran but I got them working.

 

[NC419N]

It is an 8N

 

[Ssd1987]

It has a clutch on the left and what I think is 2 brakes on the right.

 

[fried1765]

Older 8N's have a front mount distributor, later models have a side mount (handy to work on).
Some late models have the Sherman combo transmission (very desirable - many more speeds- with selecting lever on left side)
You might consider buying an electronic (pointless) ignition. Original ignition is reliable, but electronic is foolproof, and requires no maintenance. 6V electronic ignition kit for 8N (Petronix) is available on E-Bay for $103.
Some may suggest changing to 12V electrical system. Not necessary! Original 6V system works fine, if kept in good operating condition.
Lots of 8N parts available ... everywhere. You could almost build a new 8N from available aftermarket parts.
It is a simple, reliable, old tractor, that is suitable for use with most Cat 1 implements (too fast for a tiller).
If you should ever borrow, or buy, a brush mower, be SURE to FIRST get an "overriding PTO clutch" (about $40). An 8N with a brush mower is NOT SAFE without an overriding PTO clutch!
Do NOT add any type of loader. Without power steering, an 8N with a loader is a bear to operate!