Update: I got new switches from Steiner and installed them this morning. Engine still dies when I attempt to turn on lights. With engine off battery voltage is 6.2, with engine running the voltage reading jumps around with readings from 4.6 to 6.4. Also, with engine off, the lights will not come on. The bulbs all have intact filaments and the wiring looks good. So, I am perplexed. Any ideas?
Ok. I wish I was there to help.
If the battery reads 6.2 volts was that right after charging? If so, we also need to check it after just letting it sit uncharged and unused a few days later to get a complete picture of the battery condition. I always hope it is just the battery because it is so easy to deal with. A few bucks and done.
BTW, which battery terminal is connected to the frame on your tractor? Plus or Minus?
If the tractor charging system was good, the generator should be putting out a constant 6.8 volts or more and not jumping around like that even if the battery is weak. That says there is definitely a problem with the generator or voltage regulator.
Jumping like that, the tractor isn't charging the battery, so my guess is that you have been putting the battery on a charger when you know you are going to be driving the tractor. That's why we are looking at the battery after it sits a few days.
Simple things first, so I'd check to see if the generator brushes are worn down. The generator has a wrap around cover on the back that you can take off to inspect the brushes. The carbon brushes are held in their brass brush holders and also pushed down against the commutator of the generator by a spring. When the brushes get worn down too far, the spring rests on the brush holder instead of on the carbon brush. That will make it irratic, and if it goes on too long the voltage jumping around will wear out the points in the Voltage Regulator. Brushes are easy to replace, but you might need to
Take a look at those brushes, measure the battery after sitting a few days off the charger, and also you might want to take a look at a couple of Threads in Yesterday'sTractors:
I have a 1948 John Deere for which I am attempting to restore normal light function. I thought I would modernize the light switch to one with a fuse. The tractor has a 12 volt system with a voltage regulator. Is there a particular light switch I should be looking for or will any universal one do...
www.yesterdaystractors.com
I took my 3010 gas to a local tractor mechanic for hydraulic problems I couldn't fix. While he had it he told me the starter went bad, and he replaced it. When I went to pick up the tractor he told me the generator light was on and the generator was bad (it wasn't bad before I took it to him). I...
www.yesterdaystractors.com
Good luck,
rScotty