HELP!!! - Electrical Problem

[JoelD]

Thanks all, I think I experienced about all that was stated at one point or another through this harrowing (good word?) experience. I think the original battery went bad, but will check again now that it's out of the tractor. I installed the new battery incorrectly first time and did not tighten the terminal (positive) enough, due to corroded bolt. I then retightened and the new battery is good as new (go figure), when running I've got 14.96 volt at the battery.

I think all is well. But this was an excellent lesson learned for sure.

Thanks to all, and XLR8, your explanation was very helpful, greatly appreciated!!
I guess no surprise that a guy who's around semi-conductors all day understands current and voltage