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Trailering my 8n tractor

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Prentice

03-18-2003 03:12:33

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Hello,

I'm planning to trailer my ford 8n from Mississippi to Texas in about a week. The trailer I'm using is 16ft and DOES NOT have electric brakes. Is this a problem, I've heard both yes and no. Also, should I use chain or straps, where should I anchor the tractor, etc. Does anyone have any pictures of how the tractor should be secured? Also, the truck I'm using to pull is a 2003 Supercrew 5.4L with 3.55 rear end. Any problems with the truck I'm using? Thanks.

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Upper Peninsula, Mich

03-19-2003 17:06:40

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Hi Prentice. You have recieved a lot of good advise. Something not mentioned is the factory mounted truck hitch. While pulling a load with my GMC, factory installed hitch, all the necessary factory installed trailer pulling, towing, accesssories, the hitch bent down. No I didn't have too much weight on the tung, but was on a very bumpy dirt road. Turned out the factory had not installed all the bolts on the hitch. If it happened on my truck it can happen on others. I would not have wanted it to happen on the highway going the speed limit, which I was just a few minutes prior. Good luck and have a safe trip. Ron

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Prentice

03-19-2003 04:37:53

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Well..... ..

I've made up my mind, I'm going with the trailer brakes!!! It's going to take me about 2-3 weeks to get the brakes ($125) and I've already purchased a electronic brake controller off eBay ($50). Not bad pricing for the extra piece of mind.

I won't be trailering the tractor until mid April, once I get all my stuff on my tractor and truck. Thanks for the help. I'll let yall know how my trip turns out.

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SteveB(wi)

03-18-2003 20:07:11

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

I see alot of 3000 lb 'glass boats on single axle trailers with no brakes doing 75mph on our hiways. If you are careful, well chained, and pay attention to what's ahead of you it shouldn't be a problem.

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hclarkIOWA

03-18-2003 10:28:48

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

I have used a U-Haul trailer twice to transport an 8N. Once from Arkansas to Iowa and once for about 40 miles within Iowa. I used a 94 Jeep Cherokee with a good towing package. The brakes on the trailer are the key. My Jeep only has a 6 cylinder, but it had no problem accelerating, doing the speed limit (not real smart) and stopping (with help from the trailer's centrifugal brakes) and a little more braking distance to plan on. I just told U-Haul I was transporting a 51 Ford. Cost me $80+ for a 3 day rental. Extra caution and common sense will get you by fine.

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Something else to think about

03-18-2003 10:01:35

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

After trailering my N about a thousand miles (three seperate trips) I had occasion to take the carb apart. The float was deeply scratched from riding on the bottom of the rough carb insides. i had drained the gas from the carb for the trip but I now think it might be better to only drain it part way - enough to keep from bouncing the needle valve against the seat and still float the float.

Don't forget to 'balance' the tractor on the trailer - move it forward slowly until it puts the right amount of weight on the tongue. This will ensure better handling and braking and less potential for load movement.

If you are not used to driving with a trailer, take it empty to a deserted place where you can practice backing up and sharp turns etc. You can also set the brakes on the controler and work on smooth stops with out locking up the trailer brakes.

Take your time and avoid getting into a panic over someone else's impatience. But be polite and pull over so others can pass when it is safe to do so.

I wouldn't tow without brakes on at least one axle of the trailer. Northern tool sells them as do most trailer yards and for less than three hundred $ including the electric controler in the truck you will have safety and piece of mind. Plus you will maybe get further benefit down the road as you use the trailer for other things.

hth

Mountainman...CA

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duey

03-18-2003 08:39:28

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

You probably don't need any more advice....But think about what happens when you put weight on the hitch ball.... say 500#. How far behind the rear axle is the ball? 5 feet? 6 feet? The more weight there, and the longer the distance, the LESS weight on the front axle. Which axle does the most braking? The FRONT. If you DO need to get on the brakes, down force on the ball increases and takes MORE weight off the front.

Now, an N isn't much of a load in the scheme of things.... just remember that it all kinda works against you with a bumper or receiver hitch. duey

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uh . . . Dell (WA)

03-18-2003 10:11:22

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Re: Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to duey, 03-18-2003 08:39:28

Duey..... ...if you don't have about 10% of trailer weight on your bumper hitch your trailer's gonnna be waggin' yer truck and trying to come around and pass yer truck even if ya ain't brakin' and guarentee it will it you are brakin'. And specially if'n ya don't have trailer brakes. Thats why you have that in the cab, manual brake button, on the electric brake controler, to stop the swayin' without useing your tow vehicle service brakes. VERY UN-SAFE not to have sufficient trailer tongue weight on your bumper hitch..... ..... respectfully, Dell

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duey, who agrees

03-18-2003 12:00:46

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Re: Re: Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to uh . . . Dell (WA), 03-18-2003 10:11:22

... tongue weight is absolutely essential to stability.

***All of this supports the need for BRAKES ON THE TRAILER.***

Only my little 1500# trailer lacks brakes, my other trailers have electric brakes. I hear that Minnesota hasn't ruled illegal but takes a dim view of 'surge' brakes, especially on commercial rigs. Electric brakes are way more useful. Sounds like surge brakes are on the way out.

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pat

03-18-2003 08:06:32

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

like has been stated,, your truck will be no problem, I have a thought tho, probably the trucker in me seeing lots of accidents on the road from inexperienced trailer hauling,, if you have not hauled many trailers before,, hook up the trailer with and with out the load, and drive it for a while,, there is a HUGE DIFFERENCE IN THE WAY YOU HAVE TO HANDLE THE VEHICLE stopping starting, and turning to name a few,,, you have to leave plenty of space between you and the vehicles in front,, it takes a lot longer to stop,, and the weather has a lot to do with it,, trailers dont like wet,, but with experience and LOTS OF TIME you would be ok in the wet,,, you cant rush,, many people want to fly today,, take the right lane and go at a comfortable speed,thats my 2 cents on trailering,,, and there have been a bunch of people stating that brakes are a must,,, they really are, but if truth be told we have all probably hauled with out them,, money,what we have on hand,the equiptment the neighbor is willing to lend,,etc. it can be done, but it is MUCH safer with brakes, plus it is the law like stated here anything over 1000 lbs need them, again we have all chanced it before and hopefully with no problems, I will say another thing, I just purchased a 18' trailer that is equipped with trailer brakes all 4 wheels, I had to haul a caravan into the city, about a 300 mile trip,, and you would not believe the amount of ease your mind will be being able to stop on a dime with trailer brakes,, they make a huge difference! as far as securing the tractor,, 2 chains\straps on the front axle, 2 chains\straps on the rear trumpet, the strap over the transmission is a good idea probably with teh distance,, put it in gear, and it should not go anywhere ,, but just for safety sake put a safety chain to the front axle and to the trailer,, . sounds like overkill, but in all my years of hauling flatbed,car carriers, rollbacks and alot of stuff on open trailers, I have never lost anything,,,, good luck, and let us know how you make out,
pat

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Willie

03-18-2003 07:15:16

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Prentice
USE A TRAILER WITH BRAKES!!!!! !!!!! !!!!! !!!!!
Most states require brakes if trailer is over 1000 pounds!!!!! Brake-away control if over 3000!!
If just one person does something stupid you will be held resposible for ALL DAMAGES!!!!! !!!!
Not only financial costs, but CRIMINAL lliability too. If you are in violation of equipment laws, your insurance probably WILL NOT COVER!!!!
If a cop is doing his/her job of protecting the public, he/she has authority to ticket you, up to $1000 fine, and put you out of service on the spot, preventing you from moving until the load is transfered to a legal trailer!!!!! !!!!!
Just be safe & legal, you might spend a few more bucks to start, but believe me, it will be far cheaper in the long run.
Willie

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MikeC

03-18-2003 06:21:12

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

No matter how you look at it having that much weight pushing your tow vehicle is not a good idea. I'd prefer not to read about your accident while trailering your N. Go for the brakes.

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Snowplow

03-18-2003 06:17:32

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Just a thought. If you rent a car hauler from Uhaul the tractor will fit perfect, and you'll get brakes (hydraulic so you don't need a controller in the truck). It will cost you about $125 and you'll get full insurance (including liability). Worth a consideration.

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good idea . . . Dell (WA)

03-18-2003 06:36:13

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Re: Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Snowplow, 03-18-2003 06:17:32

Just don't tell 'em its a tractor. Its an old Ford Convertable. (grin)..... ..Dell

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Dell (WA)

03-18-2003 06:04:23

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Prentice..... ....Its good that you asked. Now ask your truck insurance agent. Now ask your local highway patrol.

Towing an N-Tractor on a 16' double axle trailer is good. Towing with about 500# tongue load on bumper is good. Towing with a truck with trailer package is good. Towing with with fore and aft stretch chains is good. Towing with with chain over tranny is good. Towing without trailer brakes is BAD!!!

Bottom line, it ain't the truck, its the trailer WITHOUT BRAKES thats gonna gettcha. Be carefull out there..... ...Dell

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Week N Warrior (MS/MO)

03-18-2003 05:59:52

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Guess I'm not the only one getting out of Mississippi.
I'll be pulling a 9N & 2N to Missouri in the next couple of days. The trailer alone weighs 2000#.
What part of MS are you leaving behind. I'm in Greenville myself.

Carl

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Prentice

03-18-2003 15:19:28

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Re: Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Week N Warrior (MS/MO), 03-18-2003 05:59:52

I'm leaving from Cleveland, we are right around the corner from each other. Have a safe trip.

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Spooky

03-18-2003 05:03:18

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

We have to use what we have available and I agree it would be better to have electric brakes on the trailer however --- I don't have brakes on mine either.
I would lower your tire pressure --just a bit -- on the tractors your hauling. That way when you chain em down the tires act as better shock absorbers on bumps.
The main thing is to watch your speed and if someone wants to go faster than your comfortable with-let 'em pass you.
Watch damp surfaces cause that puppy will swing on you if your not carful.
Good luck

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Prentice

03-18-2003 05:00:02

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

First of all, thanks for the prompt responses. This message board is the place to be!! I can't believe I've received this many responses so soon.

As far as my truck, it's equipped with a tow package. It has an auxillary tranny cooler, heavy duty shocks, and it has a overdrive lockout button. I think the truck should have enough power and features to handle the load. I'm mainly worried about the trailer now.

I want to make sure I tow everything safely. This is our "family" tractor so it has special value to me. I could buy one out here in TX and just sell the one is MS if I wanted, but I have too many memories of me and my father plowing and cultivating. I'm planning to restore the tractor, so I'll be back to this message board in the future.

Right now, I'm planning to pick up the trailer and go and purchase 3/8" chain and ratcheting binders from Harbor Freight. I'll check around for the costs of trailer brakes, it might be beneficial to just go ahead and bite the bullet. Thanks again for the responses so far.

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Philip

03-18-2003 05:04:23

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Re: Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 05:00:02

Prentice, This is how I tow my 7000 pound 1961 Ford 6000. I tow my 8N with a very similar set up. I use one piece of 3/8 chain from the rear drawbar to each rear corner of the trailer. I run two 3" ratchet binders with chain hooks from the front side of the tractor to the corner of the triler. On the 8N, I replaced one of the axle bolts with a heavy duty eye bolt. Hope this helps. Good luck, have fun. Philip.

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Week N Warrior (MS/MO)

03-18-2003 04:39:33

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

I've pulled heavy loads with and with out brake.
Can back from Ft Knox one time with a F-100 and a 16' trailer. Total weigth over 18,000. No problem if you don't count that little axle fire. (don't ask)
Brakes are sure nice to have.
If the load starts to fish tail brakes on the trailer can straighten it back up.
That's not a real heavy load you will be pulling.
You might want to try hooking it up before the trip and try pulling it around locally first to see how it does.

Carl

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Murray

03-18-2003 04:26:24

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Prentice, You should not have any problems hauling your 8n or any other average size tractor with the vehicle and trailer you have described. Keep in mind at all times that your power vehicle will have to do the stopping. Rule of the road is what ever you haul on a trailer tie down securely, it is wise to use an extra chain or tie down strap to have the extra security. If truth be known many of us are towing tractors without brakes on our trailers, we know that is wrong and we will eventually have brakes on all our trailers,we want to move our tractors now. Good luck and be careful. Cheers, Murray

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raytasch

03-18-2003 03:47:20

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

Any problem is with the trailer. Many states require trailer brakes when towing anything over 1500 lbs. The trailer and N as you describe won't weigh over 4500 lbs so the truck should not have any problems. If in doubt, check the CGVW rating; should be in the owner's manual. In real life you probably won't have any trouble stopping the rig if you drive far enough 'down the road'. The N needs to be tied down with a minimum of two chains at the rear. I use 3/8" chains and binders around the axle trumpets and crossed in the rear to stake pockets on side of the trailer. Same thing in front.Good luck,
ray

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Barnstormer

03-18-2003 03:42:23

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Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Prentice, 03-18-2003 03:12:33

With everything you described, I would not pull the tractor. The truck may be able to handle it. A lot depends on how you drive it with the load and the road conditions (hills etc) and your speed. If it is an automatic transmission, heat generated in the torque converter is a potential problem. I never pull in overdrive with an automatic. The second part of the problem, no brakes on the trailer. For a short move of 8 or 10 miles, on secondary roads, and at low speeds, you might be ok.
Your truck owners manual should describe trailering requirements and tongue weights and the hitch manufacturer has designed weight capacities. Tie downs can be chains or straps that are strong enough for the load. My personal tow vehicle is a 1 ton, diesel engine, 5 speed manual trans and 4.10 axle. I pull a 10,000 pound rated 18 foot trailer with electric brakes. I use it also to pull a 26 foot 5th wheel travel trailer. I still watch my heat gauge.

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souNdguy

03-18-2003 04:38:11

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Re: Re: trailering my 8n tractor in reply to Barnstormer, 03-18-2003 03:42:23

If his truck is an automatic, it might have the "tow or haul" feature on the tranny.. to keep the excess shifting / overdrive locked out.

The biggest thing about electric brakes that makes them so nice is that the trailer is less likely to come around the truck on a hard stop..regardless of whether the truck is strong enought to stop the whole rig on its own.

be safe and good luck.

Soundguy

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