It was one year ago this month that I bought my first tractor, a 1948 8N. I had shopped for a small tractor for some time, looking at Kubotas, Yanmars, and others, but when I came across the little Ford that a local hobby rancher had, it just felt right. And it still feels right a year later.
With the help of folks here, and other places online, I have since turned a fair running antique into a good, dependable, working machine. And enjoyed it. Along the line I picked up a long-neglected '49 model for parts, recouping the cost by just selling the rear rims and a few other parts I didn't need. All told, I've got a total investment of about $2800 for the two tractors, a good brushhog, new grader blade and carry all. I had expected to spend at least twice that for a decent tractor when first looking.
I might be happier with a Ford thousand series or even a Kubota. But the work I've gotten from this tractor, and the pleasurable response from family and neighbors just seeing it perform, is very satisfying. Thanks to everyone here for your guidance to me as a tractor rookie and your contributions in keeping these old workhorses alive. It's been an enjoyable learning experience so far. And I know it ain't over yet.
With the help of folks here, and other places online, I have since turned a fair running antique into a good, dependable, working machine. And enjoyed it. Along the line I picked up a long-neglected '49 model for parts, recouping the cost by just selling the rear rims and a few other parts I didn't need. All told, I've got a total investment of about $2800 for the two tractors, a good brushhog, new grader blade and carry all. I had expected to spend at least twice that for a decent tractor when first looking.
I might be happier with a Ford thousand series or even a Kubota. But the work I've gotten from this tractor, and the pleasurable response from family and neighbors just seeing it perform, is very satisfying. Thanks to everyone here for your guidance to me as a tractor rookie and your contributions in keeping these old workhorses alive. It's been an enjoyable learning experience so far. And I know it ain't over yet.
