Wiring Issue

Bamaboy1 · Jan 7, 2014

I have a couple of problems. Rats have chewed through some of the wires behind my instrument panel and now my tractor won't start.
1st problem: What do you folks recommend stopping the rats from chewing wires in the future? 2nd problem: Is it easier for me to get wires and splice myself and where would be the best place to get the wire? Has anybody ever had to replace wires in this area? Looks like I am going to have to remove the top shroud and instrument gauge panel to gain access. I have a New Holland TC40DA.

I posted this on the New Holland thread but no help so far.

Thanks for any help or advice.

woodlandfarms · Jan 7, 2014

Find out where the chew through is. sometimes you can get butt connectors and splice that way without adding wire. Cover with liquid electical tape. If it is close to a connector, it becomes a bigger issue.

If you have a deep wallet, I would suggest just replacing the wiring harness. Now that the wires have been exposed you will always have a problem in that area.

As for rats, lots of advice from mothballs to dryer sheets to cats to oil buckets. None of it works well, some of it may help.

bandaidmd · Jan 7, 2014

as long as theres enough of each end of the wire to match the color codes its a straight forward process to splice. Ideally you would like to match the colors but in the real world get a roll of each gauge in any color and have at it. I prefer soldering and shrink wrap, but butt connectors and tape will also work.

Oldtractorfixer · Jan 7, 2014

As to how to get rid of the rats in the future I'll leave that to others. To fix the wires go to your friendly local auto parts store they'll have all the wire you need. Get a couple different colors in a couple different sizes probably 14 and 16 but you'll need to match the size ti what you are splicing. Buy some butt connectors in the appropriate sizes and get a good crimping tool. The wires that are chewed will be color coded. match the colors and splice them together. Make sure your crimps are good and tight. The connectors will be insulated. Get some liquid tape and seal the ends of the insulated connectors. Moisture can work under the connectors if they're not sealed. take your time and be sure to get the right wires connected together. Good luck.

ETpilot · Jan 8, 2014

I had the same problem. Tractor no-start. Then after getting test tools to troubleshoot it decide to start. Later I saw my gauges not working and knew it was rodents again. I have had to repair wiring 3 times now. I am trying the dryer sheets to see if it helps. I read a story where a lady became a millionaire selling a scented product to keep rodents away. The dryer sheets may work.

For the repair, as pointed out, you will need wire varies colors and maybe varies gauges. Gain access to wires to find out. Automotive stores will have wire. I tried to attach a photo but cannot do with this iPad. Go to New Holland threads about 3/4 down page from your thread and see my thread on electrical issue. It has a photo of wires behind instrument panel.