keeping it original??? replacement or reproduction

When buying a piece of equipment, the vintage of the N's, I would prefer that certain things would have already been replaced with the best quality replcement parts available. For instance, the radiator, clutch plate, etc.

Sheet metal is cosmetic. Like all cosmetics, it can make or brake a "SALE".

Hope this helps. John,PA

Depending on how you want to 'grade' the tractor, I think the next best thing to an original part, is a correct vintage replacement part from say.. a salvage yard.. or NOS dealer. Next would be a correct aftermarket 'like original' replacement part, and finally a correct replacement part from an aftermarket source that functions like the original.. but does not specifically look like the original... like oem steering wheels that are a tisco 'replacement' part.. but do not specifically look like the original.. etc.

Unless I was showing for 'points' I think that I would in most cases prefer new/rebuilt parts over a worm original item that would give me 'usability' problems.

Just my opinion.

Soundguy

I doubt there are any 8N's for example with all of the original parts still in place. Tires and rims come to mind, radiator hoses, pistons etc. Even if you kept the original tin it's not going to have the "original" paint.

I think the idea is to replace what is neccessary with good quality components and make a good working machine that looks like it did when built. Often the new parts are better than the original. The show tractors are most certainly not original but are an excellent example of restoration.