I've run across an 8N locally that I may be looking to buy and fix up for reselling. In doing a bit of reading online I see that everyone is concerned whether the engines have a front or side mount distributor. Can anyone tell me why that is and what the difference is? Is there a difference in desirability with one or the other?

The one in question apparently needs a hydraulic pump rebuild (lifts but won't drop), but other than that is in running condition.


Thanks in advance.

 

I have an 8n w/ front mount distributor, and the only problem I have is every once in awhile I have trouble with the coil going out and I have to replace it. The front mount is a pain because of where it is located, other than thatthey are pretty good tractors, here is a link for every part on that tractor www.dennis-carpenter.com

 

Thanks for the info. I'll have to check that out. I wondered if it wasn't just a "hard to get to" thing, but it can't be all that bad, there aren't near as many parts to deal with on those things. I did see some problems with coils. This one is a 49 model. Does anyone know if there was a switch in production years maybe?

Thanks!

 

I think the side mounts were earlier, I can't remember for sure, but if you need anything for a ford tractor they will have it, they make all of their parts and are top quality. Has it been changed over to the 12v system? If not I would not change it.

 

If memory serves me correctly, the front mount distributors were used on tractors built during the war when copper was in high demand for shell casings and such. I think they were of the magneto type design lessening the need for additional wiring. They would be in the minority of the lot.

Seems I recall that when looking at the serial number, if there's a Star stamped next to the number, the engine runs steel sleeved cylinders. Otherwise they're cast cylinders as part of the block.

Look for any welding along the bottom of the block, just above the length of the flange at the base of the cylinders. It's common for these to have been stored for the winter with no anti-freeze and many have split the case there. It's quite common it seems.

As far as the lift goes, I don't think they have a powered down function. Gravity does it. You also have to release the clutch pedal for the pump to engage. I think Ford fixed that with the 9N.

Many of the parts of the 8N and 9N are interchangeable.


There's a number of websites for the old N series tractors. Do a Goggle.

Up till about five years ago, I had a 100% original '52 8N complete with original 6 volt positive ground electrical system. 22 or so HP in it's better days.

Hope this helps.

 

Get the side mount distributor, easier to change the points/condenser. The only problem I had with mine was that when using it real heavy in the hot summer time it would get vapor locked. The fuel line runs right along the top of the engine then down the side. After a little reworking on the fuel line it never happen again. Sold it at the farm auction great tractor.

 

You need to be a contortionist to replace the points on the front mount distributor and they tend to collect more dirt and moisture up there but I would not run from one for that reason . It just takes a little longer at tune up time . Has anyone come up with a replacement electronic ignition for these tractors yet , in my book that would be the way to go .

 

Thanks for the info. I'll keep all that in mind when I look at it.

As far as the lift, I know that it's gravity down, but she was saying once it goes up you can't get it back down. . .some valve is sticking she said.

I thought 9N's were earlier than 8N's?

 

They have them here www.dennis-carpenter.com just click on the pdf icon and you can view their whole book $154.00 for the 12v kit.

 

Your right, 9N's are earlier than 8N's, I think BC got them mixed up.
The evolution goes, 9N, 2N, 8N, NAA (this is where live hydraulics begin), then the hundred series, 600, 700, 800, 900.

Here's a nice little thing on those tractors.
http://home.att.net/~jmsmith45/identify.htm

 

Waldersha,
In some ways, the front mount is easier to work on. Just remove two bolts and the distributor/coil pops off to work on the bench. There is a keyed tang the distributor fits into-you can't put it back wrong. Screw the bolts finger tight to start and turn shavt to line up. I have a 2N ('43), which I rebuilt a year ago. Does road plowing duties with both gravel and snow. Works well except for being too light with heavy snow. One of Ford's better ideas.....
David

 

Fat Fingers..
"turn shaft"

 

We had a old 8N on the farm for years.when I was kid it was the tractor I spent many a hour on.You ain't lived untill you start plowing a 50 acre field with two fourteens.They were atough little tractor,but when you worked them hard like ours was,it took some tlc to keep them going.

 

Your not kidding, the first tractor on the home farm was an 8N that my grandfather bought new, they used horses until then. Still have all the equipment for it, plow, disc, disc plow, etc... The tractor regrettably was rolled and killed my 2nd cousin. Good little tractor, we have a 1952 that we use a lot, but there are some places that you just shouldn't go with them.