MF air cleaner ?

[EMS503]

I have a 1961 MF 35 Deluxe (Diesel) I am having hard starting issues so I am going to replace my + and - cables as the positive cable smokes on both ends (starter and master switch) when I try to start the engine, only cranking about 20 seconds before it smokes. I have replaced the battery, alt., starter and voltage reg. already. I have to cut the back of the dash panel to get at the cabels on the master switch but the air cleaner has a tube going from the top of the air cleaner to the dash area. Does this tube have to be connected to the dash? When I cut it will make the mounting hole larger, This tube has the circumference of a baseball.

 

[Farmwithjunk]

That tube goes to a vent on the dash where fresh air SUPPOSEDLY will be found as opposed to dusty air SUPPOSEDLY found nearer to the front of the tractor. It would be BEST to leave it alone, but for the time being, you could remove it while working on the starting issues with no ill effects.

 

[jimmysisson]

If you replace cables and still get smoke, starter bushings may be worn allowing the armature to touch fields, mucho draw. New bushings are easy fix for that, do brushes at the same time, clean up inside and you'll be good for years.
Jim