how can I disable new john deere 4320

bethyg2 · Jul 19, 2010

Hi all- there already seems to be an interest here with security- the farm ext to me lost a brand new tractor. I am interested in at least trying to disable mine. We are very rural and the thieves have hours to work- I wouldn't hear them up at the house. I have actually been parking the tractor next to my bedroom window LOL. That has to stop- I clipped the siding and my husband isn't happy! So, I tried unhooking the alternator on the left side of the tractor (it's an e hydro) and that worked for a bit- I guess if the thief is a dummy he'd be stumped. The lights go on but no turn over on the motor. (pretty good for a girl...) But last night I couldn't get the clipped plug out of the alternator?? My fingers are raw from trying. I don't even know how I did it the first few times. Is it like one of those old computer printer cords that clips in? I have no idea why all of a sudden I can't pull this cable out of the alternator Tha tractor works but I fear I messed up the alternator cable. I'd really like to be able to do it again- even if a thief knew what was wrong it'd take him a little longer. Any advice on that cable/ alternator issue would be most appreciated. - Thanks. If anything happens to that Deere I think I'd have a real hard time gettin over it!!! (ps I have several dot chains, master locks, various other basics in place also...)

rekees4300 · Jul 19, 2010

Don't know about the alternator but seems to be a hassle. I'd try a heavy duty chain and padlock around axle and a tree. If they still get it then Lojack will find it. It is insured right?

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/kioti-owning-operating/86580-tractor-security.html

CurlyDave · Jul 19, 2010

The only surefire method is insurance.

This topic comes up fairly frequently, and there are always suggestions of dire and sometimes deadly methods to prevent thievery. Do not fall into that temptation. Anything which remotely resembles a booby-trap is illegal in all 50 states.

bethyg2 · Jul 19, 2010

It is insured- maybe I will get a lojack! what a good idea. The alternator wasn't a real hasle until last night when I couldn't pull off the plug. It had worked before. I do have chans on it and a lock but I would feel better disabling it also. Definitely no booby traps.....wouldn't know how to do that. But if anyone does know about that alternator please let me know- the plug has me confused. Thanks-

beenthere · Jul 19, 2010

Sorry for your fears.

I'd just pull the seat safety switch connector apart, and tuck it down so it looks plugged in. Won't start then.

If that doesn't satisfy your paranoia, then go for the insurance (and relax, as it isn't worth it).

:welcome:

--and put this in a Deere forum for more connect with the readers and more help, rather than the member introduction forum --

Scooby074 · Jul 19, 2010

insurance.

LoJack can help you recover the vehicle if the thief doesnt disable it. Unhooking the battery/alternator etc. will only stop a dumb thief. If they know anything and really want your machine, theyll figure it out or load it on a trailer.

bethyg2 · Jul 19, 2010

Uh- wouldn't I be paranoid if the farm next to us hadn't lost a $75,000 tractor/ batwing? I'm kinda dealing with reality.....my tractor isn't nearly as valuable but i need it.

IslandTractor · Jul 19, 2010

Disabling the tractor doesn't prevent the real pros from taking it. Thieves don't typically drive the tractors away but rather haul them away. It creates less noise to simply winch a tractor onto a flat bed than to start it so disabling the engine seems not to accomplish much. I guess some unprepared thieves might have trouble loading a disabled tractor onto a trailer or truck but the pros will have no trouble with come alongs or powered winches.

brin · Jul 19, 2010

I somethimes have to leave my tractor on our farm overnight ...I hide it as best I can but I also called our Insurance company and bought a policy for $150 a year that insures my tractor for $22,000.00...no deductible and no depreciation...it is a stated loss policy ..so if it is stolen I will get a check for the full amount..That is the only way to sleep at night since as Island Tractor says ...the pros will be gone without ever starting your tractor..they come equiped for the deed !

bethyg2 · Jul 19, 2010

I appreciate all the posts. Does anyone know what's up with the alternator plug? I used to be able to take it out now I can't- is there a trick/ method? There are two wire clips on it- like an old usb cord. Maybe that's the key. I've tried everything I can think of.