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Mark B (Pa)
03-06-2000 18:22:50
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After tremendous soul searching and looking at dozens of eligible 8N's, I finally took the plunge. Now, as my checking account is dripping with red (Dearborn Red) ink and my wife is giving me that " you really did it this time" look, I am coming to you, my brether-N for support and reassurance that I did not get burned-Here goes: 1952 8N, same owner for 40 years who purchased from original owner. To his knowledge the engine has never been apart and the bolt heads back this up. Does not appear to have ever been split either. front pivot and bushings all tight, radius arms straight, 39lb oil warm at throttle, 20 lb warm at idle, no smoke, no oil in water and vice-versa, engine oil dirty but no sludge, mild throwout bearing noise but clutch is smooth with good travel and free play. Tranny quiet in all gears. Crank pully wobbles but holds belt. Radiator a bit chewed up but not leaking, coolant older but clean. Hydraulic a bit slow, will hold 2 bottom plow off the ground, but sinks down in 10 minutes. Hydraulic fluid clean. Hydraulic rattles some when picking up plow. Good charge on ammeter, starts quick from cold ( plugs and wires look ancient). Good front bumper, headlamps, tool box, battery box with patent plate (painted over) Fuel tank still pretty shiny, fuel and tank innards clean. Tin all good, no rust, some small dents with poor bondo repair, very old brush paint job. Swinging draw bar, new rear tires( no calcium), front tires are junk.Broken/bent leveling box poorly welded. No significant leaks anywhere. No proof meter, but 80% "nubs" on clutch & 90% brake pedal, which look to be original. Barn kept and used to pull wagons and back blade by prior owner.
It's all there, it's sweet, and I'm sure you can relate when I tell you this tractor spoke to me.
So, when I risked my marriage by plunking down $3000 for this machine, did I do wrong? is this too much? what did I fail to consider when evaluating? I'm looking for support ( or a brow beating) on this decision and some marital advice to boot. I will be using said 8N to pull a finish mower for a year or so till the reserves are back up, my wedlock is again harmonious, and I can pull off a restoration so the N can take it's rightful place along my beloved 640 and the saga can begin anew. Sorry so long, I'm a tormented soul at this moment. P.S. - Tractor values board on this site not at all helpful, prices too low, will only further infuriate the Mrs!
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