This tractor was purchased in August, 1997. What was most attractive about it was the low serial number and the fact that it was mostly all there and original. Very few parts seem to have been changed or cobbled on. It had been parked in a corn crib, non-running, for about 20 years. With the production schedules Ford was running when the 8N started up in July, 1947, it is very likely this tractor was built during the first week of production of 8N's. There are a few things unique to the early '47s. The grille still had the holes for the Ferguson badge from the 2N. The clutch linkage was different from later models and the PTO lever mounting cover was cast iron instead of stamped steel. The following photos show the restoration from the beginning to the completion.
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Our project tractor arriving home
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Not exactly in "running condition"
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A classic "basket case"
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In the shop ready for teardown
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Coming apart into many pieces
that all need cleaned.....
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Transmission and differential cases are all apart for
cleaning and bearing/seal replacement. Now we
start putting all this back together.
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Rebuilding the steering box
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Rear section is back together with new bearings, seals,
brakes, rebuilt hydraulic pump, rebuilt lift cylinder and new lift arm
bushings. Transmission is together with new bearings and shifter pin.
The Sherman overdrive unit is in and the steering box is rebuilt.
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Engine is being assembled. Crankshaft was reground,
oil pump rebuilt, new pistons and sleeves, complete new valve train,
new rod bushings, new front pulley and the head was milled. Should
be as good as new when it's done.
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Engine is bolted up and front axle assembly is rebuilt
and bolted on. Everything is cleaned and prepped for the red paint.
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All the loose parts are primered and ready for paint. These
will be painted separately and assembled later.
Click here for Page Two: The Completion!
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