Why we chose a 1951 Ford 8N tractor for our homestead

[@double-h-farms]

My grandparents farm of 11 acres was all farmed with a 8n, ran 2 row corn picker, cut rake and bale hay, plow 4 acres, disc 4 acres, bring in wood, pull fence posts out, plow snow, run 2 row corn planter, bushhog pasture, run manure spreader, for nearly 60 yrs and never had a problem other than generator rebuilt, plugs, change oil, a tire or two..

[@radamson1]

Don't be afraid of the old Ford or John Deere tractors, the rest can be a bear to find parts for. I started out 50 years ago with a 9n Ford and used it for everything from pulling down an old barn to plowing 20 acres. I cut and bailed hay with it, put in my garden with it, hauled hay, and dug a pond. That tractor is long gone, but a few weeks ago I bought two 8n fords, One for $600 and one with a loader for $700. Neither ran until I put in new gas, a battery, and a set of spark plugs. They both cranked right up and ran like new.

[@larrywoodruff7530]

Best selling tractor of all time in North America.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@Hotrodford]

Back when they were new bigger farmers with several hundred acres would buy several at a time and run them in tandem when plowing a big field to make the job faster. You have to remember that ford and Harry Ferguson tractors were the only tractors with the 3 point hook up at that time, even though there were bigger tractors then it would take several hours to bolt up the implements. Plus with the draft control of the Ford and Ferguson tractors they could do as much work as a bigger tractor.

[@alexandermitchell7434]

Very descriptive and correct. The Ford 8 and 9 N’s are easy to repair and parts are plentiful. I think this Tractor was probably The most common in the United States and Canada.

[@68Hurst]

Own a '51 like this one. Had it since '79. Still runs good. I converted mine to 12v years ago. Have the 6" tires in front for stability. I do most of the fixing myself and the parts are easy to find. I plow my driveway if snow is under 8" otherwise the snowblower does the job. Also, pull logs out of my woods. Sold my double plow and harrow years ago as my garden shrunk and not need for plowing. After owning it for over 40 years, I know all the quirks and idiosyncrasies. I used to have a bucket loader up front but it was too heavy and I kept replacing the drive pulley. So off it came and I use the bucket on my 3 pt hitch to haul wood up to my garage for my woodstove. Never badmouth an 8N.

[@41757]

I’ve had an 8N for 5 years. It does the job I’ve needed it for, including discing, brush hogging and pull logs out of the woods.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I recently inherited my dad's 8n tractor that he bought in 1967. I started driving it when I was 9. I will need to transport it from MI to FL and get it running again. Thanks

[@davidward6626]

Good looking tractor I have a Ford 3000 tractor I am blessed to have one I have several times for it I think the 6 foot tiller is my favorite

[@PunchboxRockers]

I just bought a 10.5 acre farm in Tennessee and with a limited budget, I think that this is what I'll start looking for. Thanks for the video!

[@larrywillis475]

I think you will find this will meet your needs ( in my humble opinion) I love these old tractors and they really do a good job on the homestead.

[@johndowe7003]

farmall m is good too, i love both my tractors though :P

[@randomlyfunny2657]

Mf135 is way better

[@stephenwhited1833]

Mine works great in the Texas Hill Country. I have a single bottom plow that I turn my pastures with and then I disk them and pull a broadcast seeder. I use the post hole auger to hire myself out for fence jobs. One person commented if you are running 8 hours a day 5 days a week you need diesel. I don't agree. Diesel is not some magical fluid. It is liquid power same as gasoline. for tractor jobs gas works just as well. You cant go wrong with a Ford N series. They started out in 1932 and lasted till 1952. That says success.

[@Band1..]

@@randomlyfunny2657 and it's like at least 20 years newer

[@steverturnsk6190]

These 8Ns are wonderful tractors. They are compact enough to negotiate around tight places like in barns and such, they are inexpensive to purchase, the parts are really cheap, they are so simple and easy to keep running, they are dependable. Even if you buy a larger tractor for more power with specific jobs, keep both tractors as you will use the 8N more often. They are actually more fun to operate than a $20K 3 cylinder automatic Kubota. If the tractor is actually running for 8 hrs/day 5 days a week, then you have to have a diesel.

[@redmanaaron97]

Gospel right here. It's perfect as a second tractor. I keep the carry all on mine for hauling brush and use it for other stuff like pulling trailers or for when I don't feel like making the walk across a 10 acre field. To your point, with the lack of gear ranges, live PTO, full-time hydraulics, and a somewhat efficient diesel engine, I'd probably cough up the extra few grand for a John Deere 950 or something if I was pulling long hours or intricate jobs with it

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@sheilaebers389]

This was the tractor I ,oldest of six girls used mostly to cultivate corn, in the late 50s and 60s.

[@TietLung]

Planning to get one this summer. I only have 5 acres and itll do just fine for all my needs here

[@rodrogers6895]

Inherited a 1952 8N with plow, disk, and cultivator from my dad. Still use them today!

[@thomashogan7272]

Without a live PTO you need to be very careful bush hogging. Unless you add an overrun clutch, the energy stored in the bush hog can continue to drive the tractor forward when you step on the clutch.

[@radamson1]

I believe the PTO shaft on the old fords is 1 1/4 inch diameter; almost all new PTO equipment is 1 3/8. That problem is taken care of with an overriding clutch also.

[@locustvalleyfarms7241]

Over riding clutches are readily available and solve the problem

[@prayerangel1]

Just bought a 1951 Ford 8n this week and are learning the ropes on it, so thank you for your video! I love how quiet it is and I love it that we can find parts easily. Can't wait to see what it can do on our small homestead.

[@unsaltedlife5998]

Just got one always loved the way they look and for the price it was a no brainer

[@inthelandofmilkandhoney457]

Very Good info Larry 👍

[@neillmacrae1112]

We had an 8N on our mountaintop farm that was great with a bush hog. The rear wheels were reversed and cast iron weights affixed on the front for stability.

[@Mike--K]

I had a 1950 8N to work my six-acre farm. It never let me down and just kept chugging along. The only major changes I made to it were the 12V and electronic ignition conversions. When I sold my farm the tractor was part of the package.

[@Dextamartijn]

I would want too change the exhaust back too under the belly I traded my 8N for a Fordson Dexta because it had live pto. But still miss it

[@jacklabloom635]

You are so right. Those 8N tractors are a good choice for people who have basic mechanical skills. None of today’s modern tractors will have cheap parts available 70 years from now.

[@Tonetwisters]

As best I can remember ... that's pretty much the EXACT tractor (probably same year) that I watched clear the lot that became our family homestead. We moved in around June 1953. Have loved these tractors ever since.

[@richeastmain4031]

I agree about the versatility of the 8N. I have 3 of them and use them all the time. However they are not good for tillers because the ground speed is too fast. Looking forward to more vids.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@BillPrueter]

There are videos showing 8ns rototilling just fine.

[@dianesagan267]

I have one that I bought in the early 80's . Going to have the 12 volt system changed to 12. It's still used today.

[@kenarnold9132]

I grew up with my Great Grand Dad's 8N. My father bought it from him for $500 back in '71. For some reason Dad didn't want to convert it to 12v even though the generator was burnt out. Had to jump start it or park it on a convenient hill!

[@jonbraddock5545]

Thanks. We just got our homestead and been looking at the 8N series. we have flat land and want to cultivate a few acres and reclaim the ATV trails. Budget minded is always the best for a homestead and yep Was just at a local tractor store today and saw a bunch of parts for N series tractors. The fact you can get a full rebuild kit with sleeves and pistons for under 400 bucks and do it your self in the barn or garage. That is being budget minded. Nice video and thanks for your opinion on these tractors for a homestead.

[@jeffreyyeater1780]

We have had our 9n since 1950. Its a 41..I completely restored it in 2001. Its pretty much a garage queen.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@SCfanIam100]

I had a lot I wanted to clean off and fix up to put a residence on so I bought one of these tractors that had a front loader on it. It got the job done moving stuff and spreading dirt and leveling. I then bought another one that came with a scraper blade to smooth out the dirt and do better leveling. I had planned to sell them when my work was finished but have decided to keep the one with the scraper because I love this little tractor and it might be good to have around for lawn care projects in the future.

[@ICOWBOYIM]

In 1987, I bought a 1949 Ford 8N for $1200. I beat the snot out of it for 25 years building my hobby beef & hog farm from scratch until the engine started smoking. LOL, I then sold it for $1200. And turned around and bought a "MINT" 1952 Ford 8N (only 3000 hours) for $3800. I have many 3 point implements that I use often/yearly i.r. a back hoe, a two bottom plough, a hiller/furrower, a 800# drum counter weight, a subsoiler, a 4' rototiller. Also, a fully hydraulic loader, a hay bale spike, half tracks, a harrowing pasture drag, JPS power steering, a Sherman Hi/Low transmission (I HIGHLY RECOMMEND). I do all maintenance and repairs myself. These tractors are cheap to operate and cheap to repair! I would highly recommend one for a farmer on a budget (as my Grandfather did to me) 🤠

[@100texan2]

Good tractors and so simple. When America made quality products.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@alarry31]

I’m looking to buy one of these for our little farm

[@kennethbailey2616]

Good little tractors. We used one to rake hay and run an auger to put wheat in the bins.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@danbish5371]

Great chouce..cheap parts and all you need for tools to fix you can carry in one hand.. and they do a pile of work in a day..we had a naa(jubilee) it always started and went to work..

[@Jason1Pa]

I am passionete about antique tractors especially Ford's. I have several that I've restored but I tell people all the time if you don't have patience and mechanical know how they are not for you.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@johnjaco5544]

I haven't had to do anything to mine I've had it 20 years I tuned it up and change the plugs and oil changes that's it

[@Jason1Pa]

@@johnjaco5544 Generally when someone says they haven't had any trouble in a long period of time it reveals that they either have a lot of the old or even original electrical parts or they simply don't put a lot of hours on them. Or both.

[@aerospot2]

IMHO the 8 N is too fast for a PTO tiller. Wish they had a lower gear. I use mine to brush hog, back blade and pull trailers or a carryall for firewood. Great little tractor for sure! I changed my oil filter to a spin filter using a conversion kit. Just put new back tires on it last year.

[@ModernMountainLiving]

Nail on the head! Easy to work on and parts are cheap AND available. $2000 8n or $20,000 Kabota. I would like the 4WD in snow but that $18,000 in my pocket will keep me warm and smiling. Nice Vid, Thanks.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@karenkeigwin6199]

I just bought a ‘53 8N, bush hog, box blade & post auger, love that thing, there are shop manuals available online

[@jerryr1980]

They stopped making the 8n in 52 if you have a 53 it would be a golden jubilee but still a great tractor

[@jamesb.armstrong5433]

I have two 8Ns, one Jubilee, and one 850.

[@joshuaespinoza2567]

Great review. Thorough and informative. Thank you.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@Platano_macho]

I was givin one of theses tractors just the other day

[@brucemorris6319]

Couldnt live without my 52 8n.

[@keithwarkentin]

Couldn’t have said it better!

[@JW-us7qh]

Dang good tractors with out a doubt.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@touyang2846]

Good info...i'm considering one for a up coming cabin purchase...for plowing snow...

[@larrywillis475]

I have plowed snow with mine (as did my dad when I was a kid) great memories and it performed fantastic!

[@hannjenn]

I have to cut about 6 acres of pasture. There is no steep terrain but there is sloping terrain, as well as swells that are easy to scalp if the cutter isn't properly adjusted. All I do with a tractor is cut the grass. Would an 8n be sufficient for my purposes?

[@darrellpatton4008]

They will never go down in value.

[@kkeyz69]

Good video. Thanks. Subscribed

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@wayofthewordwow7574]

I am hoping to get one

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@christophernelson9264]

Why are the carburetor hard to adjust

[@lostinmyspace4910]

My tractor is 1951 8N serial number is 362371. If you have time to check, what is yours? Thank you! THUMBS UP!!!

[@veritasfiles]

What can I say? It's SUPER!

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@bebo5558]

I thought 1950 and newer had a black shifter knob, not steel?

[@dougwebb6193]

I am with You, no computers no complicated wiring for mice to foul up and etc. You can rewire the entire tractor for fifteen bucks in wire and terminals. Pay cash and don't fall for the "package deals" that will stay money pits for a lifetime.Just ask the guy that falls for that, its just common sense!

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@none5355melvinMadigan]

Its a very good Bush hog tractor

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@Jcwphoto]

I would watch this but the audio is horrible. Otherwise great info

[@SpynCycle57]

If you find it's not what you want/need, you can always sell it for at least what you paid for it. If you take care of it, it will never lose any value.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@imaslowlerner]

Does it have power steering?

[@inthelandofmilkandhoney457]

🤣

[@michaelforde1000]

Ie ploughed at least 30acers eery year for at least 15 to 20 years

[@lovinlife3803]

Was there a year that Ford had a live PTO on a 8N? My 48 does not.

[@finncampeau4922]

No. None of the N series had a live pto

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@johnseavey6622]

One would have to go to a 1953 golden jubilee to get live hydraulics and live PTO

[@olddave4833]

the only problem with the 2N, the 9N, the 8N and the Jubilee is that there were too many greedy junk dealers during the 70s, early 80s, they scraped thousands of them for a few bucks. sad, but these tractors replaced millions of horses.

[@keithweedt7236]

What is the lever opposite side from the PTO shifter for?

[@larrywillis475]

Draft/control lever. Horizontal is for draft control and vertical is for position control. Position control for mowing (up position) draft for plowing (down).

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@davidmcclellan2786]

I have a 44 9N, Amazon has almost everything I need. I just got my steering control arm today, installing it tomorrow.

[@finncampeau4922]

No such thing as a 44 9n.

[@davidmcclellan2786]

@@finncampeau4922 actually it's a 9,2,&8N Franken tractor. Just easier to call it a 9N. I also have a Sherman shift trans to rebuild and install.

[@finncampeau4922]

@@davidmcclellan2786 nice!

[@marshallbarkema1677]

Does yours have overdrive?

[@larrywillis475]

Mine does not have the overdrive/Sherman transmission.

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@darrellpatton4008]

Those 70 year old tractors are still working. In 2071 they will still be working.

[@wilmamcdermott3065]

Ferguson was made in england not by ford

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@raypflomm6020]

MF 135!!!!

[@redandbluetractors4240]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3fIY36wjr6ZfJo

[@100texan2]

Yes you can get all the parts but they won’t be the quality of the original ford parts. What’s sad is this great American product has to suffer from Chinese built parts. I’m sure Henry Ford is turning in his grave having Chinese parts on his tractors.

[@rcjb]

Yes I agree. Working on my 1950 8n I have had for 10 years .All the new parts I get are from china, SAD.