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. 
From the Steiner Tech Support line: 6 Volt to 12 Volt Conversion FAQs
Looks better than when it was new and the engine starts on the 3rd spin. It cost a lot but the results were worth every dollar. The pictures show the tractor the way it was before, chassis painted, and the finished job.
Do you have a favorite antique tractor brand? If not, you should! Here are six reasons why brand loyalty matters:
It’s not uncommon for a tractor that has been sitting a while to become stuck. If your tractor’s engine is stuck from sitting, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to free the engine without resorting to an extensive overhaul (a tractor that becomes seized while running or is seized from running out of oil is a different story). 
Using your tractor to move snow this season? Check out these tips.
Be Generous. Snowplowing can be a great way to show kindness to your neighbors. Pay particular attention to the elderly and single women in your neighborhood – they might benefit from some extra help.