1962 Ford 2000 (4 Cyl) Box Arm, voltage reducer, temp gauge

[Randa]

First time on the site, this looks like an informative area. Thanks for taking the time to read my post.
Working on restoring my grandpa's Ford 2000 (4 cyl). I've got three questions. All three are very simple but nonetheless problems.
1. I am having problems with my box adjustment arm rubbing against the rear axle. The way I figure it I either have the wrong part or the hydraulic arm is too low. Is there another possibility? I am attempting to attach pictures.
2. I have converted the tractor to 12 volts. Do I need a voltage reducer at my distributor?
3. I purchased a temperature gauge, however, the tractor did not have one prior to restoration. Does the temp gauge go in the drain plug on the block?
Yes, I'm very green! Thanks for the help.

 

[Randa]

Update: I went ahead and purchased the resistor, for $8 bucks, why not? I'm still having questions about the box leveling arm and temp gauge. Probably everyone on this thread realizes this but the 4 cyl 1962-1964 Ford 2000 is nearly exactly like the 600 series tractors. I appreciate any info you could give me.

 

[Soundguy]

Update: I went ahead and purchased the resistor, for $8 bucks, why not? I'm still having questions about the box leveling arm and temp gauge. Probably everyone on this thread realizes this but the 4 cyl 1962-1964 Ford 2000 is nearly exactly like the 600 series tractors. I appreciate any info you could give me.

i would say it's nearly identical to a 601 series, not a 600. 600 had an amp gauge.. 601 had a charge indicator lamp like that 2000 should.

If it was me, i'd ditcht he resistor and just get the correct coil.. but you've already bought the resistor.. so a moot point. The correct coil is a napa IC14SB ( 16$ or so ) coil that runs natively on 12v with no series resistance.

that machine most certaintly left the factory with a temp probe. look on the right side , just a bit below the valve cover., back towards the battery.

as for the arms resting on the axles... yup.. real common...