Hi,
I have replaced many parts on the 1952 8N and am unable to get it to turn over. It will backfire however.
What do you think the issue could be?
Thanks,
Paul

If mine were backfiring when trying to start, I would check the timing first. Have you confirmed that your ignition timing is set correctly?

I have set the firing order to 1-2-4-3. I also looked at the cylinder with the marks on it. I turned it to the correct indication. It moved when the starter was operating.

Are you saying it won't crank or will not start? Turn over means no cranking by the starter.

It will not start. It just cycles and occasionally backfires. It has been upgraded to 12v. I also have a new starter, but have not yet installed it.

A friend of mine who is knowledgeable when it comes to rebuilding cars, has been trying to start the 8N with a hose shooting starter fluid in rather than having the gas tank hooked up. In light if the fact that I have a new gas tank & globe, I am wondering if it might achieve better results with that hooked up rather than using starter fluid?
Thanks,
Paul

Backfiring through the carburetor or through the exhaust?

As Ed said, this is usually an ignition timing issue, however there may be other causes.

Removing the air hose at the carburetor inlet and spraying starting fluid there while the engine is cranking, should enable the engine to start if the timing is correct.

What is the history of this tractor? ...Was it running for you before you installed new parts or has it not run in your ownership?

It has not run during my ownership. I bought it 3 years ago from a someone who said that it had been reliable for mowing the lawn (it has a brush hog). I am not sure where it backfired. I think it came from the back end of the tractor.

This 8N is in very good condition. It was kept inside, and I have kept it inside as well. It could be a show tractor when we are finished rebuilding it. I am going to use it for cleaning up my lots before building my house.

1) New battery
2) New carburator
3) New starter
4) New coil
5) New generator
6) New fuel tank
7) New globe
8) Changed the oil
9) Changed the transmission fluid
10) New oil filter
11) The engine was rebuilt before I bought it.

12) 12v upgrade

13) Electronic ignition system.

Did you remove the distributor to work on it?

Yes, I removed the distributor.

Most likely a timing issue. This is from the "How-tos" on this site.

www.ntractorclub.com/howtos/pdfs/Distributor-8N-Side-Mount-Timing-Procedure.pdf

Thanks.