Production years
1945-1952
Fordson tractor ยท 1945-1952
Fordson E27N Major Tractor
The Fordson E27N Major was Dagenham's key postwar British tractor, built from 1945 to 1952. It retained the 4.4 L Model N petrol/TVO engine but brought a redesigned transmission, drum rear brakes and rear-wheel spur final drive. From 1948, the popular Perkins P6 diesel conversion gave buyers a much stronger alternative.
Engine
4.4 L four-cylinder side-valve petrol/TVO; optional Perkins P6 4.7 L six-cylinder diesel from 1948
Power
About 28-30 hp (petrol/TVO); around 45 hp with the Perkins P6 diesel
Weight
Approx. 1,650 kg
Fordson E27N Major specifications
| Production years | 1945-1952 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4 L four-cylinder side-valve petrol/TVO; optional Perkins P6 4.7 L six-cylinder diesel from 1948 |
| Power | About 28-30 hp (petrol/TVO); around 45 hp with the Perkins P6 diesel |
| Transmission | 3-speed with single-plate clutch; standard or high-speed final drive |
| Weight | Approx. 1,650 kg |
| Fuel type | Petrol/TVO, or diesel (Perkins conversion) |
| Hydraulics | Optional hydraulic lift; rear drawbar |
| Built at | Dagenham, England |
What the E27N Major is used for
The E27N Major was aimed at general postwar farm work, from cultivation and ploughing to drawbar duties. Its three-speed transmission, single-plate clutch and choice of standard or high-speed final drive reflected practical farm requirements, while hydraulic lift was optional.
Now it is valued as a usable restoration and show tractor. Petrol/TVO examples suit period displays, while Perkins-converted machines appeal to owners wanting diesel character for light working demonstrations and smallholding tasks.
Why the Fordson E27N Major stands out
The E27N marks an important step between the wartime Model N and later Fordson Majors, giving it real historical pull. Dagenham-built provenance, robust visual presence and the well-known Perkins conversion keep enthusiasts interested. Buyers should remember that specification varies, especially final drive, hydraulic equipment and diesel conversions, so originality deserves careful checking.
Buying a used Fordson E27N Major
Establish whether the tractor retains its 4.4 L petrol/TVO engine or carries the optional 4.7 L Perkins P6 diesel conversion. Check starting, smoke, oil pressure, clutch action, three-speed gearbox, rear brakes and final-drive noise. If fitted, test the hydraulic lift and inspect the drawbar, tyres, bonnet and mudguards for damage or corrosion. Verify serial, registration and conversion evidence. Have it inspected if uncertain. Confirm figures and originality against TractorData.com and club records; values vary by condition, so check current listings rather than a fixed price.
Fordson E27N Major frequently asked questions
What engines were available in the Fordson E27N Major?
The standard engine was a 4.4 L four-cylinder side-valve petrol/TVO unit. From 1948, a Perkins P6 4.7 L six-cylinder diesel conversion was available and became a popular choice for owners seeking considerably greater output.
How much power does an E27N Major have?
The petrol/TVO E27N Major produces about 28 to 30 hp. An example fitted with the Perkins P6 diesel conversion is around 45 hp, so it is important to identify the engine before comparing tractors or assessing performance.
Did every E27N Major have hydraulic lift?
No. Hydraulic lift was optional on the Fordson E27N Major, while a rear drawbar was part of the stated equipment. Check an individual tractor rather than assuming it has hydraulic equipment, as surviving examples can differ materially.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year and serial number, so confirm against TractorData.com and the machine's records. Used tractor values vary by condition and region. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.