| Manufacturer |
Ford |
| Price |
1,404(USD) |
| Model |
8N |
| Equipment Type |
Utility Tractors |
| Factory |
Highland Park, Michigan, USA |
VARIANTS
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 385
| Description |
Gasoline 4-speed 2WD/September 8 - 19, 1947/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 385 file/PTO performance/Drawbar performance |
| Belt power (max) |
21.06 hp/15.7 kW |
| Belt fuel use (max) |
2.7 gal/hour/10.2 l/hour |
| Power at rated engine speed |
18.35 hp/13.7 kW |
| Fuel use |
2.5 gal/hour/9.5 l/hour |
| Max power |
20.8 hp/15.5 kW |
| Max pull |
2,810 lbs/1274 kg |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 393
| Description |
Gasoline 4-speed 2WD/May 11 - 18, 1948/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 393 file/Drawbar performance/Gear 2 used for power test./Gear 1 used for pull test. |
| Belt power (max) |
25.77 hp/19.2 kW |
| Belt fuel use (max) |
2.4 gal/hour/9.1 l/hour |
| Max power |
21.72 hp/16.2 kW |
| Max pull |
2,751 lbs/1247 kg |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 443
| Description |
Gasoline 4-speed 2WD/June 16 - 27, 1950/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 443 file/PTO performance/Drawbar performance/Gear 2 used for power test./Gear 1 used for pull test. |
| Belt power (max) |
25.49 hp/19.0 kW |
| Belt fuel use (max) |
2.3 gal/hour/8.7 l/hour |
| Power at rated engine speed |
23.24 hp/17.3 kW |
| Fuel use |
2.1 gal/hour/7.9 l/hour |
| Max pull |
2,810 lbs/1274 kg |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 44
| Max power |
21.95 hp/16.4 kW |
NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST 444
| Description |
Distillate (8NAN) 4-speed 2WD/June 22 - 29, 1950/Link: Nebraska Tractor Test 444 file/Drawbar performance/Gear 2 used for power test./Gear 1 used for pull test. |
| Belt power (max) |
21.87 hp/16.3 kW |
| Belt fuel use (max) |
2.4 gal/hour/9.1 l/hour |
| Max power |
18.79 hp/14.0 kW |
| Max pull |
2,355 lbs/1068 kg |
FORD 8N POWER
| Drawbar (claimed) |
23.16 hp/17.3 kW |
| PTO (claimed) |
27.32 hp/20.4 kW |
| Drawbar (tested) |
21.95 hp/16.4 kW |
| PTO (tested) |
23.24 hp/17.3 kW |
| Belt (tested) |
25.77 hp/19.2 kW |
ENGINES OVERVIEW
The Ford 8N features a 2.0L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, offering reliable power for moderate agricultural tasks. Its distillate variant provides versatility in fuel options, which can lead to cost savings in specific applications. However, the tractor's relatively limited horsepower may challenge performance in heavy-duty operations or larger fields.
| Description |
Ford 2.0L 4-cyl gasoline/Ford 2.0L 4-cyl distillate |
ENGINE DETAIL 1
The Ford 8N tractor is powered by a 2.0 L, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a relatively low compression ratio of 6:1, which can lead to better fuel efficiency but reduced power output compared to higher-compression engines. With a torque rating of 92 lb-ft at 1500 RPM, it excels in low-end torque, making it suitable for tasks requiring significant pulling power, such as plowing or towing. However, the 6-volt starter system may pose challenges in cold weather, necessitating careful maintenance and potential upgrades for optimal functionality.
| Description |
Ford/gasoline/4-cylinder 8-valve/liquid-cooled |
| Displacement |
119.7 ci/2.0 L |
| Bore/Stroke |
3.188x3.75 inches/81 x 95 mm |
| Compression |
6:1/6.7:1*After s/n 85000 |
| Rated RPM |
2000 |
| Torque |
92 lb-ft/124.8 Nm |
| Torque RPM |
1500 |
| Firing order |
1-2-4-3 |
| Starter volts |
6 |
| Coolant capacity |
12 qts/11.4 L |
| Sparkplug gap |
0.025 inches/0.635 mm |
| Point gap |
0.015 inches/0.381 mm (front-mount)/0.025 inches/0.635 mm (side-mount) |
| Intake valve clearance |
0.011 inches/0.279 mm *Cold |
| Exhaust valve clearance |
0.015 inches/0.381 mm *Cold |
ENGINE OIL 1
The Ford 8N tractor has an oil capacity of 6 quarts (5.7 L), which is relatively low, making oil changes straightforward and cost-effective. However, this limited capacity may necessitate more frequent oil checks and changes, especially under heavy-duty use, to ensure optimal engine performance. Regular maintenance and high-quality oil are critical to prevent wear and maintain the tractor's efficiency over time.
| Description |
|
| Oil capacity |
6 qts/5.7 L |
ENGINE DETAIL 2
The Ford 8N tractor features a 119.7 ci (2.0 L) distillate, four-cylinder engine with a low compression ratio of 4.75:1, optimized for fuel efficiency but potentially limiting power output. With a 2000 RPM rating and a six-volt starter, it offers reliability for light to moderate agricultural tasks. However, operators may face challenges in cold weather performance due to the lower starter voltage and potential fuel quality issues with distillate usage.
| Description |
Ford/distillate/4-cylinder/liquid-cooled/The distillate engine was used on the 8NAN variant. |
| Displacement |
119.7 ci/2.0 L |
| Bore/Stroke |
3.188x3.75 inches/81 x 95 mm |
| Compression |
4.75:1 |
| Rated RPM |
2000 |
| Firing order |
1-2-4-3 |
| Starter volts |
6 |
| Coolant capacity |
12 qts/11.4 L |
ENGINE OIL 2
The Ford 8N tractor features an oil capacity of 6 quarts (5.7 liters), which is relatively small compared to modern tractors, allowing for easier oil changes but requiring more frequent maintenance checks. Adequate oil levels are crucial for optimal engine lubrication and cooling, particularly during heavy farming tasks. Users should ensure high-quality oil is used to mitigate wear and enhance engine longevity, particularly in demanding agricultural conditions.
| Description |
|
| Oil capacity |
6 qts/5.7 L |
FORD 8N ENGINES
The Ford 8N tractor features a robust 2.0L 4-cylinder engine in both gasoline and distillate variants, providing versatility for various fuel types. Its engine delivers moderate power output, making it ideal for light to medium-duty agricultural tasks, albeit with limited torque for heavier applications. A key advantage is its simplicity and ease of maintenance, but users may face challenges with parts availability for restoration purposes given the model's age.
| Description |
Ford 2.0L 4-cyl gasoline/Ford 2.0L 4-cyl distillate |
TRANSMISSIONS OVERVIEW
The Ford 8N tractor features a 4-speed transmission, providing four forward and one reverse gear, which is suitable for various agricultural tasks, though it may limit speed range in demanding applications. The availability of a 12-speed gearbox variant (likely referring to an aftermarket enhancement) can offer more precise speed control and adaptability for diverse field operations, enhancing productivity. While the 4-speed offers simplicity and durability, the upgrade to 12-speed may introduce complexity and maintenance considerations but significantly improves versatility in managing different soil conditions and tasks.
| Description |
4-speed/12-speed |
TRANSMISSION 1
The Ford 8N's constant mesh transmission allows for smooth operation but requires stopping and clutch engagement to shift gears, which can slow productivity in certain farming scenarios. The 4-speed gearbox provides versatility for varying tasks, while a 20 qt (18.9 L) oil capacity ensures adequate lubrication and performance. Using the recommended Ford M4864B oil at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) is crucial for maintaining optimal transmission function and preventing wear in colder conditions.
| Transmission |
constant mesh |
| Gears |
4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Oil capacity |
20 qts/18.9 L |
| 32oF [0oC] |
: Ford M4864B |
| Description |
Tractor must be stopped and clutch used to shift between gears. |
TRANSMISSION 2
The Ford 8N tractor features a Sherman Combination Transmission that enhances versatility with 12 forward and 3 reverse gears. The Step-Up and Step-Down ratios allow for greater adaptability in various operational conditions, with the Step-Down providing increased torque for heavy loads and the Step-Up optimizing speed for transport. This dual-range capability is particularly advantageous in tasks requiring diverse speed management, although the complexity could pose maintenance challenges if not properly managed.
| Transmission |
Sherman Combination Transmission |
| Gears |
12 forward and 3 reverse |
| Description |
The Sherman Step-Up and Step-Down Combination transmission provided two additional ranges, one higher and one lower, through the use of an auxiliary gearbox. The Step-Down was geared down by 1.513 to 1. The Step-Up was geared up by 1 to 1.495. |
MECHANICAL
The Ford 8N tractor features a 4x2 2WD chassis, providing solid performance in moderate terrain but can struggle in slippery conditions. Its mechanical steering and manual drum brakes offer simplicity and ease of maintenance but may lack the responsiveness of modern systems. The 4-speed transmission allows for basic operation, while the optional 12-speed gear range can enhance versatility for varying workloads, making it suitable for tasks like plowing or hay bailing in small farm settings.
| Chassis |
4x2 2WD |
| Steering |
mechanical |
| Brakes |
manual drum |
| Cab |
Open operator station. |
| Transmissions |
4-speed/12-speed |
CAPACITY
| Fuel |
10 gal/37.9 L |
| Hydraulic system |
5 gal/18.9 L |
HYDRAULICS
| Capacity |
5 gal/18.9 L |
| Pressure |
1700 psi/117.2 bar |
| Pump flow |
2.85 gpm/10.8 lpm |
TRACTOR HITCH
| Rear Type |
I |
| Rear lift |
800 lbs/362 kg |
POWER TAKE-OFF (PTO)
| Rear PTO |
transmission |
| Rear RPM |
545 (1.125) |
FORD 8N TIRES
The Ford 8N tractor features Ag front tires (4.00-19 and 6.00-16) and rear tires (10-28 and 11.2-28), providing a balanced load distribution for various agricultural tasks. The combination of tire sizes enhances traction and stability on diverse terrains, making it suitable for tilling, mowing, and other farming operations. However, due to its vintage design, potential challenges include limited aftermarket support and the need for regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
| Ag front |
4.00-19/6.00-16 |
| Ag rear |
10-28/11.2-28 |
DIMENSIONS
| Wheelbase |
70 inches/177 cm |
| Length |
115 inches/292 cm |
| Width |
64.75 inches/164 cm |
| Height |
54.5 inches/138 cm |
| Ground clearance |
13 inches/33 cm |
| Clearance (front axle) |
21 inches/53 cm |
| Front tread |
48/52/56/60/64/68/72/76 inches/121/132/142/152/162/172/182/193 cm |
| Rear tread |
48/52/56/60/64/68/72/76 inches/121/132/142/152/162/172/182/193 cm |
FORD 8N WEIGHT
| Shipping |
2,410 lbs/1093 kg |
| Operating |
2,717 lbs/1232 kg |
| Ballasted |
4,043 lbs/1833 kg |
DIMENSIONS & TIRES
The Ford 8N tractor features a wheelbase of 70 inches, providing stability and maneuverability, ideal for light to medium-duty farming tasks. Weighing between 2410 to 2717 pounds, this tractor offers a balanced center of gravity, enhancing traction while reducing the risk of tipping on inclines. The tire sizes, 4.00-19 in front and 10-28 in rear, cater to diverse soil conditions but may limit performance in extremely soft or compacted terrains.
| Wheelbase |
70 inches/177 cm |
| Weight |
2410 to 2717 pounds |
| Front tire |
4.00-19 |
| Rear tire |
10-28 |
8N SERIAL NUMBERS
| Location |
On the engine block, left-hand side, just behind oil filter. A star indicates steel sleeves, a diamond indicates cast-iron sleeves. |
| 1947 |
1 |
| 1948 |
37908 |
| 1949 |
141370 |
| 1950 |
245637 |
| 1951 |
343198 |
| 1952 |
442035 |
| Final |
524076 |
ELECTRICAL
| Ground |
positive |
| Charging system |
generator |
| Charging amps |
20 |
| Battery volts |
6 |
| Battery AH |
80 |
