What Is the Difference Between a 9N & 2N Ford?
by Tim McQuade
The 9N and 2N were agricultural tractors produced by Ford during the mid-20th century. Ford manufactured the 9N tractor from 1939 to 1942, then replaced that model with the 2N, which the company produced from 1942 until 1947. Although the company engaged in the manufacturing of agricultural equipment, such as tractors, during the early and mid-20th century, Ford sold its tractor division to Fiat Agri in 1993.
History and Background
The 2N is a close variation of the 9N tractor. Ford would have undoubtedly continued to produce the 9N beyond 1942 had it not been for the circumstances of the time. Because of the onset of World War II in 1939 and America's involvement in it starting in 1941, it became difficult for Ford to locate the materials it needed to build the 9N. Ford released the 2N in 1942 to counter this problem. In fact, according to the Tractor Data Website, "By designating a new model, Ford was able bypass wartime restrictions on price."
Key Differences
Because of wartime shortages in certain materials, the 2N had slight differences from the 9N. According to the SSB Tractor Website, "In 1942, Ford was forced to cease production of the 9N in favor of the 2N, a revised version of the tractor designed to use materials that were not as scarce." For instance, because of shortages in rubber, Ford installed steel wheels on the 2N. Another main difference between the 9N and 2N was the fact the 9N featured a generator and battery, while the 2N used a magneto and a hand-crank starter.
Engine Specifications
The 9N and 2N tractors shared the same engine: Ford's in-line four-cylinder engine. The engine had a piston displacement that measured 2.0 liters, and the piston firing order was one, two, four and three. The bore and stroke measured 3.188 by 3.75 inches, and the compression ratio was 6.0-to-1. The engine produced 23.57 horsepower at 2,000 rpm and had a peak torque potential of 84 foot-pounds at 1,500 rpm.
Dimensions
The Ford 2N and 9N had similar dimensions, except for the operating weights: the 2N handled 3,070 pounds while the 9N could handle 3,375 pounds. Both tractors had an overall length of 115 inches, a width of 64 inches and a height of 52 inches. Each tractor also had a ground clearance of 13 inches. The front and back treads measured between 48 and 76 inches on either tractor. The maximum fuel capacity for both tractors was 10 gallons.
References
Writer Bio
Tim McQuade began writing in 1999. He has worked for two newspapers, including "The Ithaca Times," and has had a short story published. McQuade received a Bachelor of Arts in writing from Ithaca College.
