'new' 1215 tractor, charging question

[VTPSD]

Hi, I just picked up a Ford 1215 HST 4x4 as a lawn tractor on my rough lawn. It came with a 914 48"MMM.

My old 310-8 diesel converted wheel horse has been pretty beat up, and I am looking for something stronger.

The tractor is great, has been maintained with all records of fluid changes right on schedule.

I spent some time last night going over it and getting to know it. The only issue i found was the charging voltage seems low. The battery light works, and goes out when the tractor starts, but the charging voltage is only around 12.7-12.8 volts at the battery terminals. The battery is about 12.3 at rest, so it is charging some.

Is this normal for these, or should I be looking for a wiring connection or regulator issue?

Here she is on the way home, the diesel VW got a workout.

The snow cab on this thing is amazing. It appears to be a one-off job, and the effort and material that went into it is incredible. I don't see myself ever using the cab, and I will be offering it for sale if anyone is interested.

 

[VTPSD]

Another quick question, this tractor seems to like the glowplugs heated up when starting cold in 50 degree weather. It starts right up with no drama. Is that normal for these engines? My other diesels usually start right up when it is 50 out with no pre-heat of any kind.