Ford tractor model numbers can be a bit confusing at first, but don't worry, we're here to break it down for you.
The first digit of the model number indicates the series, with the 1N series being the most common and popular among collectors. The 9N series, on the other hand, was the first model produced by Ford and has a distinct difference in its engine design.
The second digit represents the year of production, with a higher number indicating a newer model. For example, the 1N series 1947 model would be represented as 1N-47.
To identify the correct model, you'll also need to look at the suffix letters, which indicate specific features or upgrades, such as hydraulic systems or larger engines.
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Ford Tractor Model Numbers
Ford Tractor Model Numbers are a combination of three digits that provide valuable information about the tractor's specifications and features. The first digit of the model number indicates the type of tractor, with 6 representing a four-wheel utility type, 7 representing a high clearance row crop, 8** representing a four-wheel utility type with a 172 ci engine, and 9** representing a high clearance row crop type with a 172 ci engine.
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The second digit of the model number indicates the transmission type, with *2* representing a four-speed transmission with no PTO or 3-point lift, *3* representing a four-speed transmission with no PTO, *4* representing a four-speed transmission with PTO and 3-point lift, *5* representing a five-speed transmission with 3-point lift and non-live PTO, and *6* representing a five-speed transmission with 3-point lift and live PTO.
Here's a breakdown of the Ford Tractor Model Numbers:
Numerical Ranges
The Ford Hundred Series tractors have a unique model number system that can be decoded to reveal important information about the tractor's specifications. These model numbers are typically three digits long and follow a specific pattern.
The first digit of the model number indicates the type of tractor, with 6** representing a four-wheel utility tractor with a 134 ci engine, 7** representing a high-clearance row crop tractor with a 134 ci engine, 8** representing a four-wheel utility tractor with a 172 ci engine, and 9** representing a high-clearance row crop tractor with a 172 ci engine.
The second digit of the model number indicates the transmission type, with *2* representing a four-speed transmission with no PTO or 3-point lift, *3* representing a four-speed transmission with no PTO, *4* representing a four-speed transmission with PTO and 3-point lift, *5* representing a five-speed transmission with 3-point lift and non-live PTO, and *6* representing a five-speed transmission with 3-point lift and live PTO.
Here's a summary of the numerical ranges for the first digit of the model number:
The third digit of the model number is not explicitly mentioned in the article sections, but it's worth noting that the article mentions the "Hundred Series" in relation to the third digit, indicating that it may be used to identify the series of the tractor.
Ford Tractor Codes
The unit code is all you need to know to figure out when your Ford tractor was made. It will tell you the month, day, year, and shift.
The first digit of the unit number is the last number of the year. For example, a unit number starting with 8 would be from 1968. The next letter stands for the month of production, with A=Jan, B=Feb., C=Mar, D=Apr, E=May, F=June, G=July, H=Aug, J=Sept, K=Oct, L=Nov, and M=Dec.
The next two digits are the date in the month. So, a unit number starting with 8F04B would be June 4th. The last letter of the unit number is either an A or B, with A indicating day shift and B indicating night shift.
Here's a breakdown of the unit code:
If you're unsure when your Ford tractor was made, look for the injection pump. Series II have a rotor pump, while the others have an inline pump.
1957 116368 Up
The 1957 and up Ford tractors, starting with serial number 116368, had a significant change in their hydraulic pump design. The vane type hydraulic pump was replaced by a piston type pump in 1955 at serial number 66849.
This piston type pump was used through 1964 and has been retrofitted to many NAA tractors today.
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Ford 01 Series Workmaster and Powermaster
The Ford 01 Series Workmaster and Powermaster are a pair of tractors that share a similar model number structure. These tractors were produced from 1957 to 1962.
The model numbers for the Workmaster and Powermaster are three digits long, with the first digit indicating the type of tractor. For example, a 5xx model number indicates a One Row Offset Tractor with a 134 ci Gas or 144 ci Diesel Engine.
Here's a breakdown of the first digit in the model number:
The second digit in the model number indicates the type of transmission. For example, an x1x model number indicates a Select-O-Speed Transmission (No PTO).
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Here's a breakdown of the second digit in the model number:
The third digit in the model number is always "xx1", indicating that it's a 01 Series tractor.
Sources
- https://fordtractorcollectors.com/identify-my-tractor/tractor-id-history/
- http://www.anglo-agriparts.com/tractor-serial-numbers/ford-tractor-serial-numbers
- https://antiquetractorblog.com/2015/04/06/ford-tractors-difference-between-a-9n-2n-and-8n/
- https://www.myfordtractors.com/modeldecode.shtml
- https://www.yesterdaystractors.com/cgi-bin/viewit.cgi
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