Ed S. (IL)
04-01-2008 19:29:50
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Well my loaner 8N went back to its rightful home this past weekend, so I'm without a tractor now. My friend was very gracious to let me keep it as long as he did, and he got it back in much better running condition than when I first borrowed it (considering it wasn't running at all at that point). So, I've dug out all the piles of parts for my '50 frontmount, and took stock of where I am, 'cause I need to get 'er back together pretty quick-like.
Most all my sheetmetal is primed, and there are a few repairs needed before that goes back on (gas lid latch is broke - gotta replace that, for example).
The engine is a fresh rebuild, but in my case, "fresh" means it's been sitting in the barn for three years since it was rebuilt. I've kept it full of oil, and turn it over with a wrench every 4-6 months. It's spinning just fine, and I don't expect any problems with it, other than needing to wire brush the flywheel, which has collected a lot of surface rust from exposure.
The rest of the tractor is in large chunks:
![third party image](http://www.peachtreeprairie.com/earth/images/op8n_assess.jpg)
I drilled out a broken bolt this evening (so I feel like I did something), and am looking at replacing the axle seals before rebuilding the brakes. While I have it apart this far, I'd like to refurb everything I can so I won't have to mess with it for a long time.
I have my FO-4 and original August 18, 1948 Operator's Manual handy, but if anyone has tips for seal replacement and brake rebuilds, lay it on me...
I've assigned my 15 y.o. son to start cleaning the gunk out of the rear housing, and we're planning to overhaul the hydraulic pump while we can get at it easily, too. His other job will involve lots of time on the wire wheel...
More to come,
es
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