The Fordson Tractor Pages Forum

Hello; I've recently acquired a Super Major. The engine # is S418713 with a large FL under # 1 injector. I've known this tractor for 25 years and it's only function was a loader tractor (bush hog 4000 loader). After a little clean-up and tightening connections and a full battery charge; it cranks immediately in this summer weather. The former owner used a little Ei***r in winter months. It uses oil and some water (none in the crankcase). I will use it as is for now however it will eventually need some attention.
I enjoyed very much the History Lesson on Ford's little 3 cyl Dexta engine. Is anyone up to a History Lesson on the design and production of this Ford power plant? Year's produced and improvements along the way. I've read much of what is on the Forum pages and will use this site as my 1st resource and looking for manual's to go with the tractor. btw, it is Blue all over w/orange wheels and gray grill inserts. I will take pictures and have my children post them. The Best to Everyone
brownsmule Mooresville NC USA

Your Super sounds like a great tractor. She has had an engine transplant at some time as the "S" engine number means that engine was once in an industrial application like a combine or similar.

The "FL" head is the last one fitted to this series and means that the engine could be a 55hp (approx) engine, if it has a Minimec pump.

The E1A engine design started by Fordson in Dagenham around 1943 and was originally intended for a range of uses after the war.

Financial and shortage of materials meant that the tractor was delayed in production until 1951 and when finally produced the engine came in three forms, DN, petrol, DKN, petrol/kerosene and DDN, diesel. Most of the parts were common to all engines although the petrol had a smaller bore.

The petrol and diesel versions were used in trucks as well as many industrial applications, in fact, at one time, nearly every form of engine powered machine was based around this engine or the E1A Major.

The diesel engine was so popular with users that by 1957 the petrol/kerosene engine had been deleted from production with petrol engines being continued for export only.

Over the years the hp was increased by modification of pump, air intake, camshaft design and engine speed from around 37hp in 1952 to 55 hp in 1963.

This is a very short history but it will give you some insight into our favorite tractor range.

Hello; The former owner told me that he bought the Major to be used as a Loader Tractor and that it had a busted head. He possibly had someone repair the engine by just replacing the head. To late to ask him as he passed away in April at age 91. I'll ask the fellow that did all his mechanic work to see if he knows and/or remembers. Thanks for the History Lesson on the E1A series engine and I am beginning to love the Major.
brownsmule Mooresville NC USA