Ford’s N-series farm tractors, built between 1938 and 1952, were absolutely gorgeous with their Art Deco styling. Specifically, we’re dealing with the 8N version, which after its debut in 1947 became known for its light gray body metal and bright body. No wonder it became an all-time best-selling tractor!
This 2,400-pound hard worker could handle most everyday tasks around the farm. It was so popular as a vehicle that farmers even wanted to hot rod these things.
Normally, a Ford 8N would be equipped with the 120 cubic-inch L-head four-cylinder, rated at only 27 horsepower. But there was a way to reach around 100 horsepower using one of the most famous Ford engines ever, usually available on a 1948 to 1953 car. We are talking, of course, about the Flathead V8.
The famous Funk Bros conversion kit emerged out of necessity. During the 2nd World War, Funk Aircraft Co. in Coffeyville, Kansas produced aircraft trainers for the military with inverted model A engines. Once there wasn’t a need for that, local farmers commissioned them to make conversion kits for their tractors.
Of course, Ford didn’t encourage these kinds of conversions, since their rear ends were designed for the low-output 4-cylinder. However, it’s been reported that Funk conversions were even performed by dealerships. This was after the war, and maybe veterans needed their farming kicks!
Data we found suggests Funk kits accounted for around 5,000 six-cylinder swaps but only 100 Flathead V8s. Needless to say, one of those is pretty rare, basically a valuable farming museum piece. But the conversion which is selling out of Burbank, California is still gorgeous and built in the same hot rodding spirit.
Mint condition tractor is too nice to use
The 1948 Ford 8N tractor was bought as a non-runner in 1994 and gradually restored over the next six years. Not only does it come with a 239 cubic-inch (3.9L) Flathead V8, but it’s also been fitted with a Sherman four-speed step-up overdrive unit and later model automotive steering box to ensure it can be better driven down the road.
The specific kit used isn’t mentioned in the ad, but they were available from a number of companies, Awesome Henry being among the well-known ones. The factory-fitted 4-cylinder was basically part of the backbone of the truck, and because stuff bolted to it, you needed a giant metal bracket that served as an adapter as well.
The Bring A Trailer seller tells us this used to be owned by a car collector in Pasadena, with people reporting that it’s been spotted at hot rod and roadster events multiple times. The Flathead obviously connects it to that world, and it’s got multiple touches that make it way too nice to drive, like dual headlights, a removable passenger seat and immaculately painted wheels.
