The Ferguson TO-20 and 9N Ford tractor are commonly confused with each other. If you’re making repairs, it’s important to know what you have! In addition to mechanical differences, one of these tractors has a big claim to fame – read to the end to find out what it is.
The easiest and most reliable way to tell which model of tractor you have is to look at the serial plate. The TO-20 and 9N are similar enough that a quick glance (or even a look at the hood) won’t be definitive. If you’re ordering parts, it’s worth your time to double-check.
There are plenty of similarities between these two tractors. They have the same paint scheme (grey all over), same tires, and the same rim, to name a few commonalities.
Big differences: the motor and the carburetor.
The TO-20 uses a Continental Z-120 motor. Ford produced their own engine for the 9N. The carburetors are different, too: The TO-20 uses a Zenith, and the 9N has a Marvel carburetor.
Some people call the Ford 9N tractors a “Ford-Ferguson” tractor. While I know what they’re talking about, this technically isn’t the name of any model of tractor. It can be confusing! The 9N Fords were advertised as having a Ferguson Hydraulic System and even had an emblem on the hood that said “Ferguson System.” The word “system” often falls off before the word “Ferguson,” though, making it even more confusing!
Now comes the claim to fame. The TO-20 was well received here in the United States, but it was fantastically popular in England, the rest of Europe, and even Austraila and New Zeeland, where the tractor is nicknamed the Little Grey Fergie. It’s even the subject of a popular children’s show! In England, the tractor is known as the TE-20. It’s a very similar tractor and comes with a wide variety of engine options (diesel, gasoline – even lamp oil!).
While I’m partial to Ford tractors, the TE-20 (England-produced version of the TO-20, essentially the same tractor) has the claim to fame that takes the cake: it was used by Sir Edmund Hillary on his expedition to the South Pole! A fleet of 7 of these tractors was used to transport people and supplies on the 1955-1958 expedition. While some of the tractors got special tracks or extra tires, the other components of the tractors were stock. These tractors performed admirably, even in the bitter cold and on sheets of ice. They hold the record as the first vehicles driven to the South Pole. 
Bruce Cobb says
Its a poor attempt, dimensionally wrong, front later style on an early rear end, yuck.
frank ybarra says
I do hope you’re talking about the tractor, ole buddy!
Gene Beach says
Most think of the “Ferguson system” as simply the first 3-point hitch, but it was much more. The “geometry” of the linkage played a big part in its success. The lower links of a true “Ferguson system” attach to the tractor slightly ahead of the rear axle, so any pull exerted by an implement (plow, disc, etc.) tends to pull the front of the tractor down, improving traction. For some reason, however, most of the modern tractors I’ve seen attach the lower links behind the rear axle, greatly reducing performance. I have an 18″ Ferguson single bottom plow that my little grey Fergie TO-30 can pull easily. Put it on my JD 4170, however, and I need to run in 4WD and sometimes even lock out the rear differential, despite greater weight and horse power. I’d assume the original Ferguson patent has long expired, so why modern 3-points don’t attach their lower links ahead of the rear axle is beyond me.
Ron Elliott says
Interesting to note the previous design and makes a lot of sense, but from what I know or have read about the history of Harry Ferguson and the 3 point hitch that seemingly ended up being claimed by ford as been on their products such as the 8 and 9N isn’t entirely true. it was a deal gone awry between Ferguson and Ford that gave Ford the invention for their tractors.
Neil Frank says
There are a lot more differences in a 9N Fordwith the Ferguson System and a TO-20 Ferguson. First off the hood doesnt tip on a 9N like it does on a TO-20. The dishpans on the rear wheels are also completely different. Origional 9N rear tires were 8×32, althought many were switched to 10-28 and TO-20 were 10×28. Also, a 9N was a 3 speed transmission, and the TO-20 a 4 speed The reason i know this is because still own great grandfather’s 1939 9N, and also a 1951 TO-20.
Tom Bowman says
The OEM carburetor for a Ferguson TO-20 was a Marvel-Schebler TSX-361, NOT a Zenith.
brandon nickoli says
where do you find the model # on the carburetor?? thanks,squirrelbrand@yahoo.com
Suzette Thomas says
Brandon,
Check out this link on our website for information to help you find your number. http://www.steinertractor.com/Tractor-Carburetor-Repair-Resources
David Baillie says
As an owner of a tea20 in canada who has ordered parts from you you should mention the completely different engine type in the England version and American one. The overhead valve 80mm for England and commonwealth contries and the continental for the US.
theodore says
I also must add the love of the invention and proof of design .As all copy cats the religious truth is to keep the world straight as always . Keeping the image and working balance is what plays a factor in the down word pressure when pulling or tilling .All in all the performance is up to the user and his farming skills .
Michael Halsall says
The American US built tractor (TO-20) used a Continental Z-120 engine. The British built (TE-20) tractor initially used the Continental engine (1946-48) After that the British tractors (TEA-20) used a “Standard” 4 cylinder engine (1948-56) The diesel version version (TEF-20) was introduced in 1951 and was powered by a Standard “20C” engine which is different to the later “23C” used in the 35 models. The British built 35 models used Ferguson engines in the petrol (gasoline) versions too.
Rod Ferguson says
I grew up with a TO-20. It was awesome. I used the 3 point hitch for pulling engines, pulling out lilac bushes,etc. My dad even pulled me out of a snow bank at 1 am during a blizzard in Michigan. Nothing but great memories. I plan to buy one in the future. Hade it for years. Always reliable, always up for the job. My father bought it from my grandfather for 50 dollars.
Frank Gilbert says
Great site for good info..
Deborah Jean Dassay says
Trying to close my mother’s estate, she has 1950’s furgeson tractor with loader. Was running last year but not driven in awhile, is it worth selling or should I just scrape it?
Larry Palmer says
Do you have the Ferguson tractor yet?
Steven Turner says
I recently purchased a 1960 TE35 with a loader for $2,200. It runs great but needs clutch,break and power steering work. The paint is nearly gone, the lights are missing and the seat needs replacing. It starts easy, even in the cold. Ms Dassay if it still runs I wouldn’t scrap it. Try Craigs list to find a buyer.
Christopher says
I am thinking about buying a 1939 harris Ferguson TO-20 they want 1200 runs great has a tiller attachment
alex mcgraw says
where on the to20 is the sec number at
Lisa Warren says
Hi Alex!
The serial number of a TO-20 should be located on the serial number plate above the TO-20’s steering column.
anthony shane hickman says
I have a Harry ferguson TO-20 with what seems to be a willys jeep engine GPW-6015. DOES ANYONE KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THIS, or what carburator it uses it was missing when i got it