dave(47 8n) wrote on Tuesday, November 30, 1999 (PST):Beautiful Job, your 9n has a soul..I think my 8n has a polterguist in it..dang Dave(47 8n)
Alan Esch wrote on Tuesday, November 30, 1999 (PST):Great story. It was pictures of your N that motivated me to restore this one proper. Please keep sharing! Old George 45 2N 183513
Andrew wrote on Tuesday, November 30, 1999 (PST):Great job!! It shows what can be done to the older tractors these days. I wish my 1961 Ford 2000 was in as good of shape as yours. But it still runs! GREAT JOB!!
Dean wrote on Tuesday, November 30, 1999 (PST):Good job Tyler, I like to see people keeping family memories alive, I'm sure your grandpa would be proud, nice machine!
Mark M.Baudhuin wrote on Tuesday, November 30, 1999 (PST):Tyler, nice article, I too have a 1940 9N #38126, mine has a long way to go before it looks like yourd. I am in the fixing mechanicals and oil leaks stage at this time. Painting will be done in spring. Your N is a fitting tribute to your grandparents and i am sure they are looking down from above enjoying the fruits of your labor. Best regards Mark Baudhuin.
Don Brown wrote on Tuesday, November 30, 1999 (PST):This is a truly beautiful story. I kinda know the feeling. My Dad died at 89 years last March, after completing his autobiography. I had encouraged him to write it, gave him a computer to do it with, and did the proofreading, editing, printing, and binding. It's essentially a tale about growing up on a prairie farm during the early part of the century. Distributing copies to all my relatives is the highest memorial I could make for him. I'm sure you're doing the same thing for your grandparents. Thanks for sharing it.
Tom Aeillo wrote on Wednesday, December 01, 1999 (PST):Tyler; Great article. And since I've actually seen your tractor, I can testify that these pictures, as good as they are, don't do your work justice...she is beautiful, and a great honor to your Grandparents!
The Red wrote on Wednesday, December 01, 1999 (PST):Tyler an excellent article and an excellent paint and parts restoration! Glad you got the family tractor. I have had no luck trying to purchase my Grandpa's 1941 Farmall H which a neighbor owns and has badly neglected. Have fun with that 9N!
Jarrod Britt wrote on Wednesday, December 01, 1999 (PST):May i say as another restorer,u did a fine job of restoring the ol 9N.It looks wonderful.Your friend,Jarrod
Leslie Widener wrote on Wednesday, December 01, 1999 (PST):Your 9N sure looks good, it reminded me of when I was a boy on my Dads farm and we had a "red belly" Ford. I believe it was a 48 model, with 3 forward gears. This was back in the late 50"s. Thanks for the wonderful story.
Cyndy wrote on Wednesday, December 01, 1999 (PST):Having known Tyler since just before the time he began restoring the 9N, I have heard many stories of the visits to Grandma's house to work on the tractor. In fact, I heard SO many stories of the frustrations, the seemingly never ending, eating and sleeping tractor talk, that the 9N has been a source of laughter between us, as I tried to talk Tyler into driving cross-country from Maryland to California (yes- driving the 9N!) for me to see the finished product! ;-) Well, Tyler - I didn't realize until reading your story how truly passionate you were about restoring the memory you held so dear as a child. Your article actually made me realize what an accomplishment restoring that 1940 9N tractor really was. I'm proud to know you Tyler and glad I got to be a little part of your restoration process. You're the best!!
Jim(OH) wrote on Friday, December 03, 1999 (PST):Thanks Tyler for the story, I have long enjoyed your responses on the "N" web site and have logged on to your page to see what my 9N should look like. Thanks again!!
HENRY T. MARTINEZ wrote on Friday, December 03, 1999 (PST):MY FIRST TRACTOR TO DRIVE WAS AN 8N SPENT MANY AGOOD TIME ON THAT TRACTOR MY FATHER TAUGHT ME HOW TO OPERATE THAT TRACTOR HE TAUGHT ME HOW TO REPAIR IT HIS PROUDEST DAY WAS WHEN I RERPAIRED A FLAT REAR TIRE BY MY SELF AT AGE 11
Brian wrote on Saturday, December 04, 1999 (PST):Looks great! When a favorite uncle died, my parents were totally against me buying one of his tractors at the sale. They are always better when there is a connection other than just brand or model. Brian
Debbie Harris wrote on Saturday, December 04, 1999 (PST):Tyler, it was a pleasure to help with this article.Your efforts will inspire many. I hope that one day my son will find the passion neccesary to restore the Ford 8n that his grandfather has passed onto him. Not only for the tractor, but for the love that he has for his grandfather and the pride that comes with it.
Jim Morrison wrote on Monday, December 06, 1999 (PST):Great article Tyler! I was raised on a family farm in Western Pennsylvania and every year when the county fair came around, I couldn't wait to go and see the Ford tractors. I'd set in the 9N seat and make believe I was driving a race car! I'd set there and use my imagination while others in the family went to the mid-way. I now own a working 1952 8N which I use regularly to mow and maintain a wood lot. Never been restored or converted with any update of any kind, I maintain it well and it works great. With its low center of gravity its better in the woods than my good running JD H which is also in never restored original condition. When the pulling gets too tough for either tractor, out comes a seldom-used Ford 3500 Backhoe. I'm over 70 now, heat my house with wood that I get from the woods on my property. Others can retire to Arizona or Florida, but me - I enjoy reading articles about old tractors, running my old machinery, raising a garden, and cutting and splitting wood for the next winter! If you restore another tractor, I hope you write about it. Jim Morrison.
MARK JOHNSON wrote on Wednesday, December 08, 1999 (PST):VERY NICE STORY WELL WRITTEN I COULD FEEL YOUR EMOTIONS ON THIS PROJECT LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING MINE.
Brad Conks wrote on Wednesday, December 08, 1999 (PST):Tyler, you did a wonderful job on this article. I don't think the heavy stuff is gonna come down for quite some time!!!
ms. beaton wrote on Thursday, December 09, 1999 (PST):A student in my grade 6 class is reasearching the history of tractors. Was Ford the first? What model was the first model? Do you know of some resources he might find useful. Thanks. I really enjoyed the article.
Bob Scherer wrote on Friday, December 10, 1999 (PST):Very moving article, reminds me of my childhood on the farm in wisconsin. Family Farming may be gone in some areas but it is not forgotten. Keep the faith. best wishes Bob Scherer
Mike Lowry wrote on Saturday, December 11, 1999 (PST):T-Todd, For those that may read this T-Todd is one of many names that I could share with you about a man that I have known, shared many life experiences and loved as a brother for 34 years. T-Ty as both you and I know we are throw backs to our grandparents. What you have done with this tractor is no different than you have done with everyone you meet. You show patience, caring and kindness. These are traits of your parents and grandparents. For all that read this article I can say that it is a insight to Todd Ness's soul and outlook on life. I want to thank you for the many trips we have taken to Moorefield and look forward to our next "war" in the woods.
Jamie Packham wrote on Tuesday, December 14, 1999 (PST): Wonderful restoration and article. I grew up farming in the Niagara peninsula (find Niagara Falls on a map)which is the tender fruit capital of Canada. While in dairy ourselves I have seen literally hundreds of the little 8N's and 9N's ( and fergies, etc.) at work. Many are still working everday (some with at least 10 000 hours on them) and cannot believe the durability of these little grey workhorses. Or the resale value! A look in local papers has them selling for $4000 to $5500 Cdn. unrestored, unrebuilt,un-anything. Good to see people keeping tradition alive and well.
Roger wrote on Tuesday, December 14, 1999 (PST):Were you surprised to find so many people have a love for the venerable "Old Fords" I to was bitten by the restore bug several years ago. My dad had a 48 8N that has been on the farm since new. The tractor was pretty much used as an orchard sprayer and remained in very good condition. But the years and use have a way of deteriorating everything, so several years ago I did a complete restoration. Now the tractor looks like new. It was a fun thing for I and my son to do together.
chris sukel wrote on Friday, December 17, 1999 (PST):your article really hit home. my grandfather had a 52 8n that died right after he did in 1974. his tractor sat behind the barn until 1998 when my dad brother and i pulled it up front to start our restoration. grandpa's tractor went thru an entire engine rebuild because huge amouts of rust had formed on the lower cylinder walls. to make a long story short in march of 99 grandpa's tractor snorted fire out of its exhaust pipe for the first time in over 24 years. i know my mom cried and im sure that my brother and dad were just as careful to hide our wet eyes from each other as i was. grandpa's tractor now has over 100 hours on it, and every one of those hours i know are spent with my grandpa and i. thank you for writing your article. chris
L.J. Silcox wrote on Saturday, December 18, 1999 (PST):I read your article about your grandfathers 9N and it realing tugged at the heart strings. I wish I could say I came from a farming family, but I didn't. I now live in a rural area in Indiana and I watch 14 and 15 year old men driving their fathers hundred K + tractors with pride. They don't have the punk hair and hang at the malls like some young people, I think we all know where the moral fiber of our country comes from !! A few years ago I found a 1946 2N with a sherman two speed and a rear end split wide open. I spent countless dollars and hours on this tractor that was born the same year I was. With local help from N-Complete and the fine people on this web site, the 2N runs again with the pride that Henry and your grandfather must have had in the simple but hard days of farming. Tyler....U DA Man, and I'm sure a good one, you earned my respect !!
James Borders (tractorboy) wrote on Sunday, December 19, 1999 (PST):I read your story and I almost broke down. It brought back many memories of me growing up on my Uncle's farm on the Allis W. D. he had so thanks for writng the story .
Joe Gibbs wrote on Friday, December 24, 1999 (PST):What a great story. You and I were very luckey to have a super wonderfull grand-father. Your 9N looks just great.You did a eal nice job. I know you had fun. I have a 2N and it looks just like yours.Mine is fully retired except for letting some people look at it once in a while. Again, GREAT JOB. Kindest egards, Joe Gibbs
Danny Blanchard wrote on Monday, December 27, 1999 (PST):great story,I can relate to that tractor. I bought a ferguson from a man in beckley,W.v. a few years ago and it looks like the one you restored. I don't know what year it is, but it,s around a 49 or so I think. Tough tractor for sure!
L . Wilcher wrote on Tuesday, December 28, 1999 (PST):Tyler, I know just how you feel my story is a lot like yours but my 1962 801powermaster was my dads favorite tractor. He and I both restored it in 1994-1995 and finished it just about 2 months before he died. I had already restored a 1951 8n of mine which I sold after dad died to buy his. I still use mine to mow a 4to5 acre yard with a finishing mower every week. I wouldn't take a million for mine, it gives me great pride to use it. Great story and pass that tractor on down to another family member some day.
George Morgan wrote on Wednesday, December 29, 1999 (PST):I really enjoyed reading this story. I was raised up on a 300 acre farm w/150 woods. My uncle had the 8N and I was apprehensive to say least, because I was 9 years old and pretty unsure of myself then. He took me under his wing and let me do what ever I wanted with the old tractor. That is one of my greatest memories. Both my Uncle and Aunt (my favorite people in the whole world), have now passed away. That old tractor is sitting out beside the barn and looking sad. I unfortunately don't have the resources to do what you have done but maybe some day. Thanks again for for a great and wonderfull memory jog. George Morgan
bill williams wrote on Wednesday, December 29, 1999 (PST):after reading your article,my reason to restore my old farmall seems selfish.the story speakes louder of your character than that of the 9-n. thank you.
Steve Warfle wrote on Tuesday, January 11, 2000 (PST):Great Story. I had seen your website, and admired your work. I didn't grow up on a farm, but worked on neighbors farms. Allis WD's, Massy Harris's, Farmalls, Olivers, you name it. Something about that old iron. My dad bought a little John Deere L that was our "Family" tractor. We hauled gravel, and collected stones, hauled brush. Unfortunately, it sat for quite a few years, and then I restored it and sold it when I was in my early 20's. And even though I now own a 2N that will someday be my sons, I sure wish I could find that little L to restore for my dad. I think that old "Pop Pop Pop" sound would put a little snap in his stride.
Heyward Mattox wrote on Wednesday, March 01, 2000 (PST):I too have undertaken a restoration project with a 9N. I am not sure of the age the serial # does not fit into the ranges in my manual. I think it is a '47, it is of course 6 volt fron mounted distributor. I bought it from an elderly black gentleman for 1000.00. Everyone laughed when I brought it home it was a total mess. The first thing I did was crank it believe it or not the second time I tried it cranked. The first time it caught fire due to faulty wiring. I was so proud I jumped on it and rode throughthe yard my wife took a picture. Your article was great there is a feeling you get when you sit on a tractor that is 50 years old plus. I will send you a picture of mine after painting. If you can suggest any helpful info or sites to visit let me know. I would really like to pin down the age. I am not familiar with your paint process. Heyward Mattox
Jack Gibson wrote on Saturday, March 18, 2000 (PST):Great job on the 9N. I now own the 0ne that I grew up with and am looking forward to restoring it. The engine block has been replaced so I really do not know what year it is . Any ideas on how to find out?
Forrest Anderson wrote on Monday, April 24, 2000 (PDT):WAy to go Tyler, almost the same story for me, the old 9n I inherited from my Grandfather and Father was theirs after WWII, and has been in the family since, I just finished a re-build and re-paint myself on it. I like you, owe so much to my parent and grandparents who cared enough to show us the values that society is lacking today. Good luck with your N from Texas.
william mosley wrote on Thursday, July 27, 2000 (PDT):would love to know wher you can get tool box for 1941 9 n
Bryan Mc. wrote on Tuesday, August 01, 2000 (PDT):I quite enjoyed your story & pictures. I also just acquired an 9n myself.It was running fine but I am now having problems of my own with it. I'm sure I will get it figured out. Mine isn't in as ruff a shape as yours was which makes my life a little bit easier. Thanks for the encouragement.
D. Schmidt wrote on Monday, August 21, 2000 (PDT):Nice article. Sometimes old things are best. I have an A-C C that I plan to restore some day. Hope I can be as successful as you obviously were.
Ed Harrison wrote on Thursday, August 31, 2000 (PDT):I have a 1941 9N myself & feel much the same about it as my dad purchased it used in 1950. After repairing an unusual electrical problem (where the coil spring meets the point spring) I've considered writing an electrical trouble shooting guide for the old N9! Thanks for an intresting article.
Bart Smith wrote on Thursday, October 12, 2000 (PDT):I am about to purchase my first tractor, a 1949 9N, and just want to say what a beauty yours turned out to be. Your grandfather would have been very proud of the restoration.
Andy Smothers wrote on Tuesday, December 05, 2000 (PST):Wow! What an amazing and truly wonderful story. Your vivid commentary and dedication to such a great cause - made it that much more enjoyable to read. I admire and respect your persistence and motivation to get such a daunting project completed! The tractor looks incredible - great work!!!! thanks for sharing your story with us! Regards, Andy Smothers
Alan wrote on Monday, December 18, 2000 (PST):loved the tale of the 9n, I know your Grandfather is very proud of your efforts on "Old Betsy", keep on tractoring!!!!
Bill Crowe wrote on Wednesday, January 03, 2001 (PST):It was a very touching story and a great tribute to his grandparents who played such a role in his young life and its also a tribute to himself for so loveingly restored the 9N tractor to its original condition and I must say the tractor looked beautiful, and tremendous effort on the grandsons behalf and one that his grandfather would be mighty proud of, hats off to the grandson on a job well done.
mark baggerz wrote on Monday, January 08, 2001 (PST):that is the best lookin 9 n around
Sharon-Louise Laye wrote on Sunday, March 11, 2001 (PST):seeing the title of your article made me look and read it. My father in law bought a 9N back 22 years ago. My daughter was only 21/2 years old at the time. She fell in love with it at the time. She conned her grandfather into riding home with him on it in the early winter. The trip was 20 miles and the smile she had on her face when they got home told her story of what the tractor met to her. When he decided to sell it she reminded him of that special day. So now her grandfather, dad and herself are restoring it and rebuilding so she can use it to cut our 3 acres of grass. This tractor means so much with love between these two and you reminded me of her so much.
big mike wrote on Wednesday, April 04, 2001 (PDT):thats a geat story and proget . i have a 1938 -9 n i,m working on and owneed about 6 yrs nom. my grandad also owned a 9-n and thats whaty got me interested.i will send you a pic when i get a scanner one day. i just won 2 nd place in tampa at the state fair for oldest tractor and 5th in best restored . well good luck and talk to you later...big mike;0
Brian Calloway wrote on Wednesday, April 11, 2001 (PDT):This was a very nice article, My father past away in Dec. and he has a 1950 something ford 960, i recently overhauled it, and plan on painting it this fall, his memorys will always be with it and me. thanks for the warm feelings
Bill Carns/Carns farm Central Ciy Nebraska wrote on Wednesday, April 18, 2001 (PDT):Really enjoyed your article. "Saved" our 9N from sale off our farm about 10 years ago and brought it to Arizona for use on my horse property where it served well. Now just coming back out of storage to start a complete resoration. Had to laugh about sector gears. Mine was like "hearding chickens" as Kathy put it, but new bushings/bearings/ball joints have gone a long way. Sector gears still to go. Looking for good ones. Hard to find. Bill
Bonnie Boutelle wrote on Sunday, April 29, 2001 (PDT):I can remember (as a child) my father driving a 9N that was borrowed from a neighbor, and this little champion worked hard and long hours and it was a magnificent machine, as is most Ford vehicles (their trucks and cars are equally wonderful machines). I have wanted one of these tractors for my own for many years. I am hoping to be able to own one of my very own and will be a very proud owner. They are a true workhorse, never to be outshown by any other machine.
Todd wrote on Friday, June 01, 2001 (PDT):That was a great story that you wrote and I think that it was a great thing that you did to restore your grandfathers old tractor. Good luck with the tractor and I hope it keeps on running great for you.
joe pavlin wrote on Saturday, June 02, 2001 (PDT):enjoy this very much
Eric S. Sabo wrote on Tuesday, July 10, 2001 (PDT):Your article moved me to tears! I have redone 2 old cub cadet garden tractors wich had no real sentamental value to me, other than just being tired old piecs of the past. I am now looking for a 8n 9n or 2n to redo. I wish i had one as special as yours. Thanks for sharing your story. Eric Sabo, Scotland, CT
Doyle Bullard wrote on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 (PDT):It was a joy for me to read this excellent nostalgic account. I can very well relate to this experience. When I was 13 years old my dad bought a new 8N Ford Tractor, the first tractor we ever owned for our small 40-acre farm. Most of our neighbors owned A Farmalls which they used to cultivate the sandy, hill-side farms of Cullman, Alabama. They made snide comments about our little Ford tractor, insisting that it was too low to the ground for cultivating tall row crops like corn. One neighbor said, "Bullard, you'll knock down your corn with a tractor with a belly so low toward the ground." Whereupon my dad replied, "Lem, that's stupid reasoning! In cultivating two rows, the belly of the tractor runs between the rows of corn." With the little Ford 2-row tractor spread wide for cultivating, it would cling to the sandy hill-sides like molasses. The one-row A Farmalls would slide all over the sandy hill-sides and keep the operator on pins and needles trying to hold it in the row. Having witnessed the overwhelming success my dad had with Ford farming, it wasn't long before most of the neighbors began buying Ford Tractors. I grew up with this old tractor. Dad passed away in 1992. At the time of his death he owned a 2000 Ford diesel tractor which we still use. In reflecting back over those years, it astounds me that this little 8N Ford was so advanced for its time. It had a three-point hitch hydraulic lift system with constant draft control which hasn't been improved upon much since it first came onto the market. It was agile, comfortable for the operator, wasn't clumsy to operate, and just seemed to fit the operator better than any tractor of the time. The only thing it lacked to make it easier to operate was power steering. I am trying to find a 1950 model Ford 8N that is restorable. I would like to find one not too far from Cullman, Alabama and welcome any information about the availability of one. My mom, who is now 87, would be thrilled to see me driving an old 8N tractor around the farm. She has commented numerous times about the old 8N Ford we paid cash for in 1949. Thanks for the good article. It brought back many fond memories for me. Doyle Bullard (256)734-9568
bill annechini wrote on Thursday, October 25, 2001 (PDT):Very nice article. I bellieve that I may have seen your tractor at the recent Rust, Grease and Steam show in McConnelsburg? I am currently restoring a 1946 2n...very complete and orginal.
Gordon in VA wrote on Friday, October 26, 2001 (PDT):What a great story. I've been trying to get the initiative up to restore my 9N for the past 8 years. I think your experience might just do it. Thanks for sharing.
l bennett wrote on Sunday, January 27, 2002 (PST):Tyler Neff What a great job on the 9n. I'm starting painting my 8n and i am going to try to do just like you did. did you have any trouble with the epoxy primer? I've never tried anything like this before so I will be rereading your article many times. hope to have one looking as good as yours
Garry E. Jones wrote on Monday, January 28, 2002 (PST):Great Story. I too can relate to the good ole memories of our first ford 9n on our farm. The old 9n we had, best I can remember had a 6 cylander engiene. I was looking to day at an old 9n to restore. However, it did not have the Sherman step-up transmission. Do you have any idea what year the old tractor may be. Thanks, Rev. Garry E. Jones of West Liberty, KY.
Dan Nelson wrote on Sunday, February 24, 2002 (PST):Dear Jeff, I just read your restoration article and enjoyed it. I have a friend whth an 8N that needs a complete restoration and I'm thinking of buying it. Can I contact you for a more indepth conversation on how you did it and what your experience was like? Please contact me when you can. Thanks!
Randy Clark wrote on Sunday, March 10, 2002 (PST):I just purchased a old 9n.It runs great but needs a bit of exterior work.I appricate your story.
ron parsons wrote on Saturday, March 23, 2002 (PST):just wanted to say i just bought a tractor just like the one in the article. it runs but i still have some work to do to it.
melvis wrote on Tuesday, April 09, 2002 (PDT): with everything going on in the world today,it's nice to read this story and reminisce. Thanks Tyler!
GEORGE A. TURNER wrote on Tuesday, October 08, 2002 (PDT):i just wanted to congradualate you on your effort to restore this tractor . It is truly a job well done i have a 9N of my own , and i recently got it running pretty good . I purchased the tractor about a year ago and it had a front end loader on it ,but i took it off so that i could replace the coil and other stuff so that i could replace these items with new ones . I own a 10 1/2 acre farm that i bough and i have to keep it up.I TURNED THE LAND WITH A TWO BOTTOM 16 INCH PLOW and it did it with no problem. And that was all i needed to convinced me tha this was truly a jewel of a tractor .im currently looking for another on to restore so that i can get in the parade seen.so good luck with your purfect example of the way o 9N should like.Ill send a picture of mine at its present state if you like . thanks and be safe . GEORGE A. TURNER FROM SPARKS GA.31647 P.O.BOX 778.
John Mckee wrote on Sunday, February 16, 2003 (PST):Very interesting article. I have a very similar experience. I currently own 2 1946 2n's. I too at some point plan to restore the orignal we used on the farm, the other was my wifes grandfathers which I purchased many years ago. I have restored both tractors in the 80's and due to minor repairs have let them sit for the last 5 years. Due to lack of motivation I haven't fixed them since I purchased a new MF 240 in 1986. Always glad to see these old tractors restored. The Sherman transmission on yours is a rarety--I've only seen a couple. Thanks for your article.
Gene Reams wrote on Saturday, March 01, 2003 (PST):Enjoyed your article on the restoration of your grandfathers 9N very much . I grew up on a small farm and like you the first thing I learned to drive was the little 9N .I only wish that one of the family had kept the tractor but when my dad stopped farming it was sold. Now there are several members of the family that have antique tractors and would give there eye teeth for that 9N ford. I really enjoyed the article and the tractor looks great. Congratulations. Gene
Larry from MD. wrote on Monday, March 03, 2003 (PST):I saw that tractor in person at one of the shows.It looks as good as it does in the photos.I enjoyed the story too.
DAVID 44 2N wrote on Thursday, March 06, 2003 (PST):I liked your 9N its nice its going to be a long time Time till mine looks like yours
JAMES 44 FORD2N wrote on Tuesday, March 18, 2003 (PST): IT LOOKS BETTER THAN MINE DOES
cody kupiec wrote on Thursday, June 19, 2003 (PDT):i love 9n trators alot my dad almost bought one for 2,000 dollors but he bought a ford 3,ooo istead
Mel Crews wrote on Tuesday, December 16, 2003 (PST):Wonderful article. I was not lucky enough to have grand parents watch me grow up and help mold my life. This piece brought a tear to my eyes. I'm 56 years old and drove and bought my first tractor yesterday, a 1950 8N. I have 4 wonderful grandsons and want them to learn and have memories just like Mr. Neff. I hope one of these days one of them will drive our 8N in a parade and have a sign on front that says dedicated to Paw Paw and Nana Crews.
Gary Carlill wrote on Wednesday, December 24, 2003 (PST):Tyler I have to take a momment after reading your article,wipe the the tear from my eye. And then let you know how greatful I am to see someone in todays world with this kind of FAMILY VALUES. Sir you have my respect and admiration!! It is families like this and people like yourself that will keep this world a decent place to live to spite the rest of the world. I can only wish that families like yours and mine were the norm instead of the exception. Would it not be a better world if everyone had the passion and commentment toward each other and their elders that you have shown. May the Lord bless you and your family this Holidy Season. Respectfully Gary Carlill
Phil9N wrote on Saturday, December 27, 2003 (PST): You've done an exceptional job on your 9N, Tyler and I'm a bit envious. I've got my Grandaddy's 9N(ser#3667) purchased 12-22-39 and it still runs good. I still have the 9.5x32" rims and tires and the Sherman step-up transmission he had put in when he bought it. I hope to one day be able to restore it to near new condition and be able to show it off like you do now. Just today while having some tree limbs taken down, one of the guys helping commented he hadn't seen a Sherman in years! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.
Don R. King wrote on Thursday, February 05, 2004 (PST):A Great article with a lot of Love and respect for those we love or have loved, my grandparents had two 9N's, I would give almost anything to get them back and restore. You did a magnifcent job and know you will always be proud of you accomplishment. God bless Don King
Dennis McCarthy wrote on Sunday, February 29, 2004 (PST):i just bought 10 acres, home and a tractor came with the deal. It is a 9N...I don't know all of the details yet, but I will be checking this site and keeping it going. Great article... Dennis
Gary wrote on Wednesday, March 10, 2004 (PST):I enjoyed your story. I am also restoring my Grandfathers 9N tractor. I hope it looks as good as yours. I am 48 years old and want it to last the rest of my life and pass it on to my son.
Amy Armstrong wrote on Tuesday, August 10, 2004 (PDT):Attention; Tyler Neff My hat goes off to you for such an accomplishment on restoring your grandfather tractor. I have a friend that has discovered restoring tractors and is having a grand time doing this. I was looking for a minuture model of the tractor he is working on(for a christmas present for his desk) and came to this site and read your story. We have gone to tractor shows and have met some remarkable and unforgetable character's. And in reading your story (I'm a farm girl) I'm proud you took the time to share the story with all of us!! Great Job & THANK YOU.
george wrote on Monday, August 30, 2004 (PDT):Excellent work! Very well written story; you are a lucky man. I hope my grandchildren feel about me as you feel about your grandparents. God love you and keep smiling!
Emmet wrote on Saturday, September 25, 2004 (PDT):Enjoyed your article on the 9N. How did you find out what color gray to paint it?????
Doyle E. Bullard wrote on Monday, October 25, 2004 (PDT):I think this is a wonderful story. One who values the heritage of his family and their good values deserves commendation. I have a similar background having grown up on a farm. My dad's first tractor was a 1948 8N Ford which I learned to operate when 13 years old. I would like to find an 8N Ford Tractor for restoration. My dad died at the age of 84 in 1992. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience.
Wayne Boggess wrote on Monday, February 28, 2005 (PST):Great article. Congratulations on a beautiful restoration!
kenneth w. johnson wrote on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 (PDT):what a tractor story! a tribute to family values. thanks ken
Mike Gallagher wrote on Wednesday, September 14, 2005 (PDT):I am working on a 9N Ford. I am having trouble with the electrical system. Do you or know of somebody that has a drawing of the wiring. I have a 12 volt system.
Patrick Carpin wrote on Tuesday, November 01, 2005 (PST):Congratulations for your 9N and if it is possible can you e mail me some picture of it please because I am restoring a mixe of 2N 8N 9N and having some pictures from differents angle would be fantastic
Stephen Grigg wrote on Wednesday, March 01, 2006 (PST):Great article.
nelson eddy wrote on Thursday, March 30, 2006 (PST):i felt as if i were reading my autobiography. i have done essencially the identical thing, but more than twent years ago. it was heart arming to read of an other"s adventure all most identical to mine. thank you.
Don wrote on Friday, April 14, 2006 (PDT):Thanks. Appreciated your true life story and what you gained by being faithful to a wish of your relative...
Kurt Fenrich wrote on Friday, April 28, 2006 (PDT):I really enjoyed your story and seeing what you did with your Grandfather's old 9N. That tractor is now enjoying a well earned retirement. Take care of the old gal...
Clodis Hunt wrote on Friday, May 26, 2006 (PDT):This artical was very touching to me even so much as to bring a few tears to the 60 year old peapers.I just bought a 1940 9n 2-days ago and I mowed my filed with it the first day. Needs lots of work but sure a joy to ride. The first thing I learned to drive was my grandads old 2n which me and my son plan on restoring. Clodis Hunt
kevin williams wrote on Saturday, June 17, 2006 (PDT):Hey, just found the website and read the article on the 9N. Well done that man, and what lovely memories you have, I hope you keep the tractor for your children to love too. Congrats.
Mike Coutoumanos wrote on Tuesday, June 27, 2006 (PDT):Great story. I have owned 3 tractors and never owned or lived on more than 3 acres of land.(Ford 8N, 600, 3000 deisel) I live in town and am lost without a tractor. A new friend has a 1952 Harry-Ferguson(original)I want. He is elderly and I have expressed interest in buying it some day but he seems to believe he needs it. (he does still work a garden.) I want to wait on it, maybe I will get lucky. There is 9N that I want to go see. It is supposed to be in good working condition. The elderly man bouught it from the original owner and will not take less than $2000.00 for it. Anyway, thank-you for sharing your story.
Denny(ny) wrote on Thursday, July 20, 2006 (PDT):That is one beautiful machine. I bet yor gramps is looking down at you, smiling from ear to ear. Who ever wudda guessed that old tractors could bring so much joy! Congrads!
B.Cooper wrote on Wednesday, August 02, 2006 (PDT):Thanks for the story, mine was a Willy's Jeep. But currently rebuilding a 9N which also gave memories of some good ol' times. And we thought we knew it all, hah! Nice job.
eddie wrote on Tuesday, October 03, 2006 (PDT):i have 1941 ford tractor and it wont start it try to i have bougth a front mount distributor and coil and still wont start need some help
Mike D Parsons wrote on Thursday, October 19, 2006 (PDT): I am in the first stage, of restoring my 41 ford tractor. Your article is certainly an inspiration for me to finish, as soon as I can. Great job! Mike
Richard Holland wrote on Monday, November 06, 2006 (PST):Nice article. You did your Grandparents well. One of my Grandfathers had Fordson tractors but I never got a chance to take one over and restore it. Just recently I bought a running 1940 9N and plan to paint it up and use it for brush cutting.
Charlie wrote on Tuesday, November 14, 2006 (PST):Tyler, that is a beautifuly job you have done. My father-in-law farmed 70 years and died 1998. He owned 1941 9N and my brother purchased it when my wife sold his farm. We just recently bought it back at auction. Am sending it out tomorrow morning for complete overhaul of engine. My brother painted it 8N colors when he got it and he did do some major work. I plan to paint it original colors when it is brought back. Your info on painting will help me alot. I love that tractor and am anxious to get it all done.
Ben Bichsel wrote on Friday, December 01, 2006 (PST):this is a great article
Bob wrote on Tuesday, January 23, 2007 (PST):Tyler, What a great storyand a lesson in life for the rest of us to follow or lead. by the way the 9N looks better than new. Thanks Bob in NC
Daniel Freeburn wrote on Wednesday, March 14, 2007 (PDT):great article, I also have a 1940 9N
Bob Hunter wrote on Monday, May 07, 2007 (PDT):that is a good pic. and it looks like to me, that you done a great job. It looks great.i am going to start on my , i think 1939 9N, very soon, hope i can get some help on info too! you got a great tractor!! Good Job!!
Eddy Guerra wrote on Saturday, May 26, 2007 (PDT):I really enjoyed that story. I just got my first tractor. I think with the help from another member it s a 39 to 47 9N. I am, like you, taking it a step at a time. Hopefully one day mine will be as sharp as your s and some of the others on this site. Thanks for the inspiration...Eddy
Stephan A. DeConinck wrote on Tuesday, July 17, 2007 (PDT):Hi! Just a note to tell you that your 9N tractor and your story are excellent! I have very fond memories of my grandparents, Roy and Winnie Bennett from Walworth, New York and your story is much like my childhood being on their farm growing up with a Ford Ferguson 9N tractor. Our main tractor was a 1946 Farmall H with a manure pitcher. My grandfather did most of the farming with that tractor but needed a second tractor for other chores such as raking hay, cultivating corn and red kidney beans and such. He heard of an old retired muck farmer who was selling his tractor and all the implements with it for 700.00. Just so happens it was the 9N tractor with a three point hitch one bottom plow, two row rear mounted cultivator, three point hitch 6 disk harrow, a 8 three point drag, one four wheel hay wagon, and a front mounted set of bean pullers. Many of the area farmers made fun of my grandfather s purchase, but it really helped him to make work on our small farm much easier. I thought the world of my grandparents and my grandfather suprised me by telling me that for my hard work on the farm, this tractor was mine as long as I took care of it. I sure was a proud boy and we used the tractor up until he retired and sold the farm in 1968. We moved to a small town and the 9N moved with us. My grandfather used it to plow and drag many gardens until he could no longer do it because of his age. At the age of 18, I had lost interest in the tractor because we were not on the farm and I had a whole life ahead with new things that took the little tractor s place. I met my future wife and we were married two years later. In 1976 my grandfather had passed away and then in 1979 my grandmother passed. I didn t realize how much they meant to me and the 9N tractor played a major role in my life as did my grandparents. My wife took pictures of the tractor before my grandfather sold it and I am so thankful. Well, I am finishing up restoring a Farmall H and I plan on finding a 9N tractor to restore for the memory of my special grandparents. Thankyou so much for your story and this web site. The farms were much smaller back then and so was the machines the farmers used. When all is said and done,the old farmers were real as well as their equipment. They all were hard working people who we should always admire, I know that I do. At the end of the day, I think they made more profit for their work with their smaller equipment then todays farmers with all the large expensive farm machinery. Well keep your tractor running forever in memory of your beloved grandparents and then pass it on to someone who will remember you the same way. God bless you!!!
Ernie Loganbill wrote on Friday, July 20, 2007 (PDT):Tyler, Nice article! I have my dads first tractor, a 1944 John Deere H. I plan to restore it soon. Right now, I m working on some other tractors to improve my body/painting skills. Old tractors are one of my loves and someday I want to write an article about that H, the tractor that I learned to drive when I was only five. I m 67 years old now so you see we ve been together a long time. Thanks for the article. Ernie Loganbill
vickie wrote on Saturday, August 11, 2007 (PDT):No gas is going to the carbeurator. Any suggestions
J J Trobaugh wrote on Thursday, August 23, 2007 (PDT):I know what you mean with your story here. I am in the process at this very moment of restoring my grandfathers 8N Funk conversion. He is here with me everyday to see the progress on it. When I get done with this one, I still have his Farmall H and 9N to do as well.
hugh lewis wrote on Wednesday, August 29, 2007 (PDT):A real nice storey, 9n looks lovely
Rusty Jones wrote on Wednesday, January 23, 2008 (PST):WOW!! You did a great restoration! Looks great. And, the thrill of the first start-up can't be forgotten! GREAT!!
ron 9n wrote on Wednesday, January 23, 2008 (PST):The 9n was light years ahead of it's time in 1940. It still is a very practical unit, and will be until all fuel is gone. Ron Tepoel
Tom Simmons wrote on Monday, March 17, 2008 (PDT):Great job I am working on a 9n Ford tractor right now,hoping to get it looking as good as yours
Art Howlett wrote on Monday, September 15, 2008 (PDT):To Tyler Neff I was just like you when I was 7 years old and I also rode on my Dads lap before driving by myself. I am 67 years old now and still have that 1946 Ford Ferguson. I still use it every day. It needs a paint job real bad and someday I will get painted. Strang but my Old Ford has a blue seat on it too. Art
Harold Porteous wrote on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 (PST):I have a 1960 MF85 that has the same story you tell and the same heart felt value as it was my Grandfathers. Like you I put it back together out of love and respect for him. I miss him dearly and often just sit on the tractor to remember him. I am not too good with words but I think you understand. Thank you for your story it touched me. Harold Porteous
Gilbert Lacher wrote on Sunday, December 07, 2008 (PST):Yours was an excellent article. It was detailed, nostalgic and very complete. I run a men's group of residents who grew up on a farm. Many also became farmers. I will use parts of it at our next meeting.
Robert Nicholson wrote on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 (PST):Greetings, Thank you for sharing this touching account of your life as a young boy on your grandpa's farm. This bond which forms is simply amazing and gives us such rich memories in our adult life. I have a 1953 Case VA which my father purchased new. This tractor replaced the horses on our farm. I started driving this machine at about 8 years of age and shared field repairs with my dad over the years. My dad is gone, but I still have the tractor which reminds me of my boyhood on the farm. It goes without saying that this tractor is not for sale. Robert
Henry King wrote on Tuesday, March 10, 2009 (PDT):Great restoration job, I just purchased a 1940 9 n from your description mine is in about the same conditionas yours was in the beginning, sure hope it looks like yours when i finish it
ROSS wrote on Tuesday, June 02, 2009 (PDT):Beautiful job! Iam trying to identify a friends tractor;9n, 2n, 8n?? Tag on left side near clutch pedal reads sn59377 type 6-1 ? can't verify Maybe 8-1?? Thanks for any and all help!!! You should be very proud of this project!!!
james m wrote on Monday, October 12, 2009 (PDT):You did a great job. just started restoring my grandads 1939 Ford 9N!
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