1863

[Mark Pardoe]

Hello, I have a model 1863 with an electric issue. When I engage the PTO the battery light comes on. New PTO clutch was installed last summer. Can anyone help me with this problem? Thanks, Mark

 

[lpalma]

Is the battery new? connections nice and shiny?

 

[Mark Pardoe]

Battery is not new but test good with load tester. When using a meter, battery is getting 12.8 volts, when I engage the pto voltage at the battery starts to drop. If I continue to mow it will drain the battery

 

[lpalma]

Check all the connections for the battery and starter. The rectifier has a ground to frame wire, check for corrosion, check the terminals on the ignition switch, and clean them up.

 

[mgwin]

Welcome to the forum Mark!

 

[Mark Pardoe]

I found the problem, the rectifier has a partial meltdown. Thanks for the advice, pretty sure a new one will fix the problem

 

[Cubbie]

Hello Mark, welcome to the forum. Got any pics?

 

[Mark Pardoe]

Hello Mark, welcome to the forum. Got any pics?

 

[Mark Pardoe]

Hey everyone, here’s a pic of my 1863. Not pretty but works excellent, the new rectifier did the trick. Is it possible to have more power now or is it my imagination? I just mowed an area that I brush hogged a couple weeks ago with no lugging at all, I’ll take this beast over any of the new stuff out there.

 

[mfrade]

If your voltage had been going lower and lower then yes, the ignition may have been providing a smaller and smaller spark at the plug. Now your voltage is back up and the ignition system can provide a greater spark making a better ignition of the fuel, making more power.

 

[Mark Pardoe]

That makes a lot of sense, I’m getting 15.8 volts now, only dropping to 15.28 when pto is engaged. Glad I joined this group, I’m sure I’ll be back looking for advice sometime

 

[1811Cub]

Your tractor uses a magneto. Once the engine is spun fast enough, the magneto will produce a timed spark in direct correlation to the magnet on the outer circumference of the flywheel. Battery voltage does not have an effect with spark output in that design. Now, with a points type ignition, your logic would apply.