Sorry guys. I should have posted earlier in the day but it got busy. Farm, kids, store to run, etc. Time got away from me! Anyhow, I watched them test the battery again today and it tested out at the proper % to be considered good for it's age. He said it barely did but it did. However, I switched it out for a loaner battery and the tractor started on its own and holds the charge much much longer but still does start to wind down slowly and becomes more noticeable after about the 45 minute mark. Nothing as bad as before but it is there.
I did check out the #1 fuse and it shows .04 on the meter.
I shook the ground cable as suggested and there is no real difference in the readings on the meter when I do this.
I checked where the ground cable connects to the side and there is no corrosion or anything that looks odd. I also wiggled on it and it didn稚 seem to change anything when it was running.
I've got good wiring diagrams that I found in the ownerç—´ manual but am trying to go step by step as suggested. Here is a link I found to the TYM manuals:
Index of /t450
My next step, I assume, is to check the voltage on the stud piece of the alternator. I値l do that after I get the kids down for the night and get some farm chores done. It will be super late but I cannot wait to get this mess figured out!
Oh, I will be visiting the guy who came out to work on the tractor tomorrow. I figure I値l wait till I know his place will be busy (first thing in the morning) and take all the kids with me. 8 kids in a waiting room should help him see the light. This will be the first time I don稚 threaten their lives for not behaving in public before entering a public establishment. Yes, I am your typical vindictive female I fear.
Thanks everyone and sorry for any confusion I might have caused. I did state that I had not been able to get it to start without jumping it each time but had also stated it would start if I charged it first. I should have clarified and been more plain spoken. Sorry about that!
Thanks again everyone! Weæ±*e newer to the internet and I must say it actually comes in handy!