Multiple 8n problems

PA 8N 496152

New User
Been having multiple '52 8n (side mount, 6 volt) problems. I have some fixed, I think, but the biggest current problem is slowly losing power and oil pressure.
It starts ok and has about 42 psi oil pressure. Within 10 minutes of cutting lawn with a finishing mower it drops to about 38 psi and I notice its not running as strong. Within 20 minutes of grass cutting it has even less power and will easily bog down in thicker but doable grass, with oil psi slowly dropping to about 25.
Same tractor, on rare occasion, will run like a champ and brush hog a field with (almost) plenty of power.
Was having problem with spark and a new condenser didn't fix the problem as well as a new key ignition switch did. Also recently changed the oil and filter, cap, rotor, plugs (hotter Champions), copper plug wires. I had this problem before, but not to this extent.


Question #1: Why the slow loss of power?

Thank you in advance!
 
I only have a guess on the slow loss of power, but I would guess
it's because of weak spark from lower quality points.
They get hot and don't open as they should.
I like BlueStreak premium points from Standard Ignition.
Others also have good luck with Echlin from NAPA or BDW brand.
Recommended plugs are Autolite AL-437 gapped at .025
25 PSI oil pressure hot wouldn't worry me much either.
That sounds fairly normal for an N that hasn't just been rebuilt.
 
PA 8N........you do know that the 8N uses a gravity fed system and sometimes the domed gastank vent gitts CLOGGED by mud-daubers and prevents the fuel tank from draining due to VACUUM in the fuel tank. Crack yer gascap to relive the vacuum. Simple, eh?

Also replace yer 8N's gascap with new and improved NAA gascap, 'cuz it is self-venting. Simple, eh?

You do know oil thins with TEMPERATURE, don't you??? And THIN oil does NOT generate much oil pressure, just as you are experiencing and complaining about. While the N-Engine was designed for 30wt detergent oil, the Owners manual also suggested changing to 40wt oil in HOT climates. Modern 10-30wt oil is really THIN 10wt oil with temperature sensitive additives that make it act like 30wt. Ain't NO LAW that sez you can't even use 50wt RACING oil in HOT temperatures. 6-qts and change yer filter. Simple, eh? ........oily Dell
 
the oil pressure is no mystery.. or problem.

25psi hot idle is practically bragging rights.

the loss of power?


when it gets like that. check spark.. if spark is good and blue and snappy and will jump a max gap on a plug.. then look at fuel.
 

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