The 1939 9N was the first American-made production-model tractor to incorporate Harry Ferguson’s three-point hitch system, a design still used on most modern tractors today. The 2N was introduced in 1942, after America became involved in WWII. The 2N was basically the 9N with some features changed or removed due to the restraints of wartime. They were first issued with steel wheels and the battery and alternator were eliminated and replaced with a magneto and hand crank start. Later, as synthetic rubber became available, some 2N tractors were equipped with rubber tires. Many, like the museum’s tractor, was retrofitted post war to have electric start and battery ignition. The 2N evolved into the 8N in 1948.
The BCATP used them as “General Duty” tractors for airfield maintenance, towing aircraft and so on.
Interesting Fact:By designating the 2N as a new model, Ford was able to bypass wartime restrictions on price and charge more than the 9N. The price of a new 2N tractor was $1,120 USD. They were built in Dearborn, Michigan. (source: https://www.tractordata.com/)
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial 