My LB2204 has been overcharging and until I can obtain a new regulator I have been turning the key to the off position while using it. Other than not having guages, which aren't working anyway, am I causing any problems? When I turn the key off the engine actually speeds up a bit and I assume it is from the load of the alternator being removed. I'll replace the regulator as soon as I can, but would like to be able to use the tractor in the meantime. Thanks- Scott
Running with key in off position?
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Coyote machine
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You could end up with the battery exploding and sending acid all over the place. Are your gauges not working because of your charging system? I suggest fixing the problem ASAP to prevent other possible damage.
The guages did work, so they are probably toasted from the overcharging. I ordered a voltage regulator Friday from Michigan Iron (great guys) and will put it in ASAP. My question though is whether or not running the engine with the key in the off position harms anything. From what I can tell the charging system is disabled with the key off according to my meter readings at the battery- 17+ volts key on and 12+ volts key off. I know I should just park the tractor until it is fixed, but I just can't bring myself to do that!
Coyote machine
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- 22 SANY SY 50U, '10 Kioti DK 40se/hst KL-401 FEL, loaded tires, KB-2485 bhoe, Tuffline TB160 BB, Woods QA forks, MIE Hydraulic bhoe thumb & ripper tooth, Igland 4001 winch, & GR-20 Log Grapple. Woods BBX72" Brush Mower. Diamondplate aluminum canopy
SAME ANSWER! 14.4 MAX volts for a battery to be charging at. 17+ is enough to boil the acid and any spark will make it explode. It could explode just by turning on the tractor.
PARK IT!
PARK IT!
Well- it's fixed now and it was easy
Thanks again to Bob at Michigan Iron- great service and good prices.:thumbsup: Unfortunately the guages still don't work so I guess they are RF'ed, but thats a subject for another thread!- Scott
JoelD
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to original question, I've accidentally run with key in off position, I've not had any ill effects, although I've not done for long periods of time. Bummer on the gauges.
finn1
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I assume your tractor is older, with a mechanical fuel injection pump and a Bowden wire shutoff.
If so, the Diesel engine will run fine without the key in the on position. Many olde trucks and tractors were configured like this.
Only issue is that the lights, etc may not work, and the batteries won’t charge, but you already know that.
If so, the Diesel engine will run fine without the key in the on position. Many olde trucks and tractors were configured like this.
Only issue is that the lights, etc may not work, and the batteries won’t charge, but you already know that.
