Idiot Light

[Mac25]

Been using the B2320 like crazy here in Indiana clearing a foot of snow. If there is one thing that I don't like about it, it is the fact that it doesn't have an IDIOT LIGHT or BUZZER to alert me that the brake is on. I got on it today and operated it for about 10 minutes with the brake on before I realized it. I usually only push it down far enough for the first latch to catch, so hopefully I didn't do any damage. Has anyone ever added a switch and light to their tractor and if so, what components did you use? Thanks

 

[JRL305]

I only use enough force to keep the tractor from rolling when I set the brake on my B3200. It will go if I forget and try to take off but it really howls. That's a good enough warning for me.

 

[vetteman46]

HI Mac25.

I also have a B2320, but with a gear shift. After using a little Yanmar with gears, for 20 years or so, I'm so accustomed to depressing both clutch and brake at startup that it's second nature for me. Naturally that habit would tell me if the brake was already on.
Considering the slow speed that we travel, and the very short distance covered in 10 minutes, I don't think you have anything to worry about - no significant brake pad wear and certainly no adverse effect on the engine or drivetrain.

Mike

 

[BeezFun]

There's been several threads over the years about guys adding buzzers and lights. If you do a search you should find them. I agree it's easy to do, my solution has been to always apply brakes full force, then if I try to move I can tell something is wrong.

 

[dstig1]

I have done this so many times I can't count. :duh: I've gotten a lot better over the years, but it still happens on occasion. And the Grand L's even have a light on them...it just isn't bright enough to really stick out during the daytime. I've gotten to be more routine about applying and releasing the brake to solve the problem. Even the guy I sold my old tractor to does the same thing. I told him he would, and sure enough he does it too.

What's even worse if if you move off and forget to raise the implement on the 3 pt off the ground...

 

[MHarryE]

My Grand L has this dim light on the dash that sucks. My M135GX has a warning light and an audible alarm that sounds like you have just ripped every gear out of the transmission and spit them on the ground. Very effective. Even a deaf person would notice because the sound waves set up a vibration that curdles your innards. Have driven through the brake many times on the Grand L but never on the M. Our Deeres and New Holland have a park position which I prefer.