Recent Optima Problems (51R) in TC29D

DanLebiedz · Apr 5, 2009

I recently installed an optima yellow top 51R in my 2000 TC-29D and am having trouble starting the machine. It will only start when I jump it with my truck. I think that I may have a defective battery. Anyone else having trouble? Thanks for help.

AndyMA · Apr 5, 2009

Obvious thing to check is the new battery charged? When you say jump it. Do you mean jump to the battery or to the starter. If it is to the battery I would say that the new battery is either uncharged or bad, I would try to charge it and if that didn't work return it to where I bought it to get it tested.

Andy

dqdave1 · Apr 5, 2009

Just take it back to where you bought it and have it tested.

jimmysisson · Apr 6, 2009

It's funny how good looking cables make poor connections. If you didn't already, remove and scrape/sand each end. Make sure the nuts and washers are shiny, apply vaseline, tighten everything firmly.
Or, your Optima is a dud...
Jim

carpenter383 · Apr 6, 2009

your tractor should charge the battery after you do get it jumped, so either the battery is not taking a charge, or the charging system is not working properly. Or it could have a drain. If you have a multi meter then check the voltage with the tractor running, it should be around 14.5 volts. A fully charged battery will be around 12.5 volts

Lurch · Apr 7, 2009

Another point. How often are you using it? Optima's generally don't hold well for extended periods and don't respond well to total discharge. One of their few weaknesses.

DanLebiedz · Apr 9, 2009

Followup:
I have replaced the 51R with a brand new 51R. The tractor presently has a new starter and ignition switch. Also, when the key is turned to on, then turned to the right the glow plugs heat up. After the glow plug light goes goes out, the key is turned to the start position, there is then a click from the solenoid. After the click, everything goes dead. The battery needs to be disconnected in order to reset. Also, the 30 amp main fuse is good. I am really puzzled. I can get the tractor started if I hook jumper cables from the tractor battery to my running pickup truck.

Any ideas?

SteveInMD · Apr 9, 2009

The starting circuits on these machines do not have a good track record. After modifying the circuit as show in the attachment I've had zero problems. (I too have an Optima 51R.) I think the problem stems from dirty safety interlock switches, however the symptoms seems to vary at bit from one unit to the next.