Adding electrical devices to tractor

   / Adding electrical devices to tractor
  • Thread Starter
#11  
Hi,
As an old retired electronics tech (and homebuilt aircraft builder), I'd suggest an alternative to car stereo wire for high current circuits. Try welding cable. Much more flexible, and much more rugged insulation than the vinyl insulation on automotive stuff. Many (likely most) a/c builders these days are using welding cable instead of
Charlie

Charlie, this is power amplifier cable kit. Approx 4 gauge wire, came with 80A fuse (I de-rated it to 60A, winch has it's own 50A fuse) multi-strand cable very flexible. I ran it trough sprayer tubing for extra abrasion resistance.
 
   / Adding electrical devices to tractor
  • Thread Starter
#12  
The power connectors are what superwinch sells and cost around $20+ each. I recognized these as the same connector used on electric pallet jacks and purchased them from a Hyster dealership.

Since then I found these on Amazon and they are rated at 50A. The weak link in my mod. Larger connectors are available for those wanting to replicate my efforts.
 
   / Adding electrical devices to tractor #14  
   / Adding electrical devices to tractor #16  
many thanks for your comprehensive reply wish we had the DIY shops(Harbor Freight Lowes etc etc) in the UK that you guys have in the USA.....

Purpose of post: to provide general ideas to fellow tractor owners wishing to add lights, electric sprayers, even some high current accessories for short term intermittent use (think winches, jump starts).

I'll start with the high power preparations.

#1 good heavy duty wire, at Walmart you can buy power amplifier wiring kits (reason: high quality multi-strand wire with flexible insulation). I bought the heaviest one, 1600 watts, I think. It comes with an 80 amp fuse block. Replaced 80 amp fuse with 60 amp fuse. Winch has it's own 50 amp fuse.

#2 extra protection for high current wire. Farm stores sell spraying equipment bought chemical rated hose for it's abrasion resistance.

#3 power connectors. Farm store wanted $21 for a Superwinch power connector. Electric pallet jacks also use these connectors. At a local Hyster dealer I can buy 3 for $22. You don't have to be a rocket scientist on this one. They also sell rubber dust covers for the connectors.

#4 optional extra connectors for winch, jumper cables, future expansion needs (lights, radio ect).

#5 locate somewhere close to battery for master fuse block, small mounting hole will need to be drilled. Run wire through sprayer hose and route from battery to rear of tractor. Use cable ties to secure to factory wiring, hydraulic lines, frame, ect. The power connectors have 2 small mounting holes (#4 machine screws?). Use caution, don't drill into plastic fuel tank (thought about it on BX until I realized what the black plastic part was)

Now for time for some images:
 
   / Adding electrical devices to tractor #17  
Time to revive another thread. I'm planning on adding a fuse block to my tractor. Lately, with lights and now a third function going in, I'd like a clean location to bring all my fuses to. Can someone tell me the easiest way to tap into the "ignition"? For everything I'm adding, I do NOT want them operational unless the key is in the run position (IE: the tractor is running).
 
   / Adding electrical devices to tractor #18  
Depending on how much power your added fuse block will be distributing you may NOT want to depend on ignition switch alone due to amperage rating of switch.... You might consider a relay (contacts) directly powered from battery through a fuse to power fuse block and just tap off any "on" position from ignition switch with key on to energize relay.....

I usually go to these places for any electrical devices as relays and fuse blocks and bulk wire and such.... Lot better selection than off the rack at FLAPS...

Waytek | 12V Electrical Components Distributor

Del City - Electrical Supplies & Professional Grade Wiring Products

Dale
 
   / Adding electrical devices to tractor #19  
Let me see if I understand you correctly. I have a leftover BlueSea 6 slot fuse panel from my last boat. I can surely tie that directly to the battery. Are you stating, any wire I run thereafter, be tied into an ignition power source? Sorry for my ignorance, but where does the relay come in?
 
   / Adding electrical devices to tractor
  • Thread Starter
#20  
Battery --> Master fuse --> Relay --> Fuse block. Every circuit added to fuse block will only work when relay is engaged - if using 6 10A fuses a 60A or larger relay needed
NOTE: if you use more amps than charger makes, you'll run down the battery. Relay should come with wiring diagram.

add a circuit fuse - Bing can be used to power relay coil
 
Last edited:

Tractor & Equipment Auctions

71060 (A49346)
71060 (A49346)
2021 Doyle 8 Ton Trailer Tender (A51039)
2021 Doyle 8 Ton...
2017 Yamaha VX1050B Deluxe Jetski (A50324)
2017 Yamaha...
2021 Caterpillar 304E2 Mini Excavator (A50322)
2021 Caterpillar...
2014 Ford Explorer AWD SUV (A48082)
2014 Ford Explorer...
2021 Redirective Crash Cushion Guardrail (A48081)
2021 Redirective...
 
Top