🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Ford
Model:
8N Tractor
Year:
1948-1952
Codes
Model Code:
8N
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Historical Significance:
The Ford 8N is one of the most iconic and widely produced tractors in agricultural history, known for its versatility and durability, making operator manuals essential for its continued use.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors Of Era:
Massey-Harris Pony, John Deere Model B, International Harvester Farmall Cub
Key Features
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive information for immediate repairs and routine maintenance, enabling cost savings through DIY service.
Manual Audience:
Ford 8N tractor owners, mechanics, and collectors.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
1948-1952 Ford 8N Tractor Operator Manual
Additional Coverage:
Immediate repairs, technical data, parts list
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Not specified, but described as 'complete'
Manual Type
Type:
Operator Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
File Format:
PDF
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Requirements
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Lubrication and Engine Tune-up
Fuel Exhaust:
Fuel and Exhaust Systems
Cooling:
Cooling System
Electrical:
Electrical System
Drivetrain:
Power Train
Hydraulic:
Hydraulic Control
Chassis:
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes; Steering Assembly and Front Axle
Procedures Included
Operation:
Controls and Operation
Maintenance:
Lubrication and Engine Tune-up
Troubleshooting:
Trouble Shooting
Storage:
Storage
Specialized Procedures:
Plowing Instruction
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive details regarding technical data, diagrams, and a complete list of parts.
Ease Of Use:
Very easy to follow step-by-step instructions for any skill level.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Usability:
Pages can be run off as needed for garage use.
Binding Type
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper Type
Paper:
Not applicable (digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Model:
Ford-Ferguson 20 ('Red Tiger')
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement:
119.7 cu in (1.96 L)
Performance
Horsepower Drawbar:
Approx. 20-25 HP (at PTO)
Bore X Stroke:
3.1875 in x 4.25 in (80.96 mm x 107.95 mm)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Carburetor:
Marvel-Schebler TSX or Zenith (specific model varies)
Ignition System:
Distributor with coil
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (known as the 'Select-O-Speed' in name only, not a true automatic)
Optional
Optional Gearbox:
Not applicable, standard 4-speed manual
Features
Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual (specific ratios for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and Reverse)
Clutch:
Dry single-plate clutch
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 120 inches (3048 mm)
Width:
Approx. 65 inches (1651 mm) at rear wheels
Height:
Approx. 55 inches (1397 mm) to steering wheel
Weights
Operating Weight:
Approx. 2,500 lbs (1134 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 72 inches (1829 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Standards:
N/A (historical agricultural equipment, modern safety ratings not applicable)
Active Features
Braking System:
Mechanical drum brakes, foot-operated
Passive Features
Operator Station:
Open station, requires operator awareness and proper safety protocols as outlined in the manual.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
N/A (Mechanical tractor of the era)
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Mechanical tractor of the era)
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Mechanical tractor of the era)
Hydraulic System
Hydraulic Lift System:
Ford-Ferguson System (three-point hitch, draft control) - this was a revolutionary feature for its time.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/hours, typically every 50-75 operating hours or annually.
Greasing:
Regular greasing of lubrication points is critical and detailed in the manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 30 or 20W-30 (API Service ML or MM classification, refer to manual for precise recommendation)
Transmission Hydraulic Fluid:
Ford 9N/2N/8N Universal Tractor Transmission Oil (UTTO) or equivalent; manual specifies capacity and type (often referred to as HY-TRAN compatible).
Coolant:
Water-glycol mixture (50/50 ratio recommended for freezing protection)
Gear Oil:
Refer to manual for specific gear case lubrication (e.g., differential, final drives).
Known Issues
Common Wear Points:
Steering box wear, clutch wear, hydraulic lift system leaks, carburetor issues.
Ignition System:
Spark plug condition, distributor cap and rotor wear.
Cooling System:
Radiator condition, hose integrity, thermostat operation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Ford Tractor Division:
Ford was a major pioneer in agricultural mechanization, with the 8N representing a pivotal model in its history.
Model Evolution
Predecessors:
Ford-Ferguson 2N, Ford-Ferguson 9N
Successors:
Ford Golden Jubilee, Ford 600 series, etc.
Production
Production Period:
1947-1952
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA (Highland Park Plant)
Production Volume:
Over half a million units produced, making it one of the best-selling tractors of all time.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Agricultural Impact:
Widely recognized as a machine that revolutionized farming, making it more accessible and efficient for small to medium farms.
Ratings
Reputation:
Exceptional reliability and longevity, earning it the nickname 'workhorse'.
The Ford 8N is one of the most iconic and widely produced tractors in agricultural history, known for its versatility and durability, making operator manuals essential for its continued use.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors Of Era:
Massey-Harris Pony, John Deere Model B, International Harvester Farmall Cub
Key Features
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive information for immediate repairs and routine maintenance, enabling cost savings through DIY service.
Manual Audience:
Ford 8N tractor owners, mechanics, and collectors.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
1948-1952 Ford 8N Tractor Operator Manual
Additional Coverage:
Immediate repairs, technical data, parts list
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Not specified, but described as 'complete'
Manual Type
Type:
Operator Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
File Format:
PDF
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Requirements
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Lubrication and Engine Tune-up
Fuel Exhaust:
Fuel and Exhaust Systems
Cooling:
Cooling System
Electrical:
Electrical System
Drivetrain:
Power Train
Hydraulic:
Hydraulic Control
Chassis:
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes; Steering Assembly and Front Axle
Procedures Included
Operation:
Controls and Operation
Maintenance:
Lubrication and Engine Tune-up
Troubleshooting:
Trouble Shooting
Storage:
Storage
Specialized Procedures:
Plowing Instruction
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive details regarding technical data, diagrams, and a complete list of parts.
Ease Of Use:
Very easy to follow step-by-step instructions for any skill level.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Usability:
Pages can be run off as needed for garage use.
Binding Type
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper Type
Paper:
Not applicable (digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Model:
Ford-Ferguson 20 ('Red Tiger')
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement:
119.7 cu in (1.96 L)
Performance
Horsepower Drawbar:
Approx. 20-25 HP (at PTO)
Bore X Stroke:
3.1875 in x 4.25 in (80.96 mm x 107.95 mm)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Carburetor:
Marvel-Schebler TSX or Zenith (specific model varies)
Ignition System:
Distributor with coil
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (known as the 'Select-O-Speed' in name only, not a true automatic)
Optional
Optional Gearbox:
Not applicable, standard 4-speed manual
Features
Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual (specific ratios for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and Reverse)
Clutch:
Dry single-plate clutch
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 120 inches (3048 mm)
Width:
Approx. 65 inches (1651 mm) at rear wheels
Height:
Approx. 55 inches (1397 mm) to steering wheel
Weights
Operating Weight:
Approx. 2,500 lbs (1134 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 72 inches (1829 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Standards:
N/A (historical agricultural equipment, modern safety ratings not applicable)
Active Features
Braking System:
Mechanical drum brakes, foot-operated
Passive Features
Operator Station:
Open station, requires operator awareness and proper safety protocols as outlined in the manual.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
N/A (Mechanical tractor of the era)
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Mechanical tractor of the era)
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Mechanical tractor of the era)
Hydraulic System
Hydraulic Lift System:
Ford-Ferguson System (three-point hitch, draft control) - this was a revolutionary feature for its time.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/hours, typically every 50-75 operating hours or annually.
Greasing:
Regular greasing of lubrication points is critical and detailed in the manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 30 or 20W-30 (API Service ML or MM classification, refer to manual for precise recommendation)
Transmission Hydraulic Fluid:
Ford 9N/2N/8N Universal Tractor Transmission Oil (UTTO) or equivalent; manual specifies capacity and type (often referred to as HY-TRAN compatible).
Coolant:
Water-glycol mixture (50/50 ratio recommended for freezing protection)
Gear Oil:
Refer to manual for specific gear case lubrication (e.g., differential, final drives).