Ford 9N intermittent spark, won't run

[RickB]

I'm voting for the key switch being the culprit.

 

[JRP3]

I'm voting for the key switch being the culprit.

I did replace it 2 or 3 years ago with what I thought was a good quality toggle switch but maybe it wasn't.

 

[John0829]

I did replace it 2 or 3 years ago with what I thought was a good quality toggle switch but maybe it wasn't.

That's about how long the good ones are good for, a marine rated switch is the only one I have found that lasts for any reasonable length of time.

 

[JRP3]

This is the one I bought, (only one, not 25). 25 PCS Heavy Duty Toggle Switch 20/15A 125/277V, 2 HP with Waterproof Rubber Boot UL cUL Certified - - Amazon.com
The tractor has either been inside or covered by a tarp. I guess if the contacts aren't copper, brass, or plated they could have corroded. It is supposed to be rated for 50,000 cycles.

 

[JRP3]

I put a jumper across the resistor terminals and got good spark. From what I've read I think I need the B version of the resistor,

Ford A8NN-12250-B Amazon.com: New DB Electrical Resistor IFD6000 Compatible with/Replacement for Ford A8NN-12250-B, New Holland 87056840 Ford 2N, 9N Tractors : Automotive​

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[JRP3]

These descriptions of the A and B versions say they relate to which side the generator is mounted on, B is left side for 9n/2N, A is right side for 8N:
https://www.steinertractor.com/FDS263-Resistor-Assembly
https://www.steinertractor.com/FDS264-Resistor-Assembly

The problem is mine is right side but it's a 1939 9N and their description says right side mount is for 1947-50 8N. I don't think I've ever seen a 9N with a left side mount generator.

 

[RickB]

Pretty good chance the engine has been replaced. Can you read the serial number on the block? If so, does that number indicate a 1939 tractor?

 

[fried1765]

This is the one I bought, (only one, not 25). 25 PCS Heavy Duty Toggle Switch 20/15A 125/277V, 2 HP with Waterproof Rubber Boot UL cUL Certified - - Amazon.com
The tractor has either been inside or covered by a tarp. I guess if the contacts aren't copper, brass, or plated they could have corroded. It is supposed to be rated for 50,000 cycles.

I seriously doubt that your ignition problem is in the switch!

 

[JRP3]

Pretty good chance the engine has been replaced. Can you read the serial number on the block? If so, does that number indicate a 1939 tractor?

9N 1320

 

[JRP3]

Randomly clicking through the pics on the 9N registry shows all of them with right mounted generator like mine.

9N & 2N Ford Tractor Registry