Great success with pony motor conversion to electric start

I just want thank everyone here over the last few years with answering all my questions with how to convert a 720D from a pony motor to electric start. From my experience using this electric start, I wish I had done it years ago rather then spending all that time and effort tinkering with the pony motor.

I didn't go with a 12 volt system as most people think of doing when thinking about a conversion. Because of my research, and all the good advice I received here, I decided to go with a 24 volt system using a Delco 40 MT starter and two 700ca batteries hooked in series that fit perfectly in the battery box.

I bought the starter from an place in MN that installed the correct pinion drive with the correct gear teeth, and with the correct hole alignment so the starter would fit exactly into the standard John Deere electric motor mounting bracket on the tractor.

I sold my pony motor, 6 volt battery, and generator for $750. With that money and maybe $300 more, I bought the 24V starter, a 24 volt one wire low turn alternator, an original mounting bracket off a 730D, the breather tube and filter and plate, the linkage pivot that goes on the governor, and the plate that covers the water outlet on the block.

Also I bought all new wiring, which I had custom made from a site on the web for $80, to go from the battery to the starter, the starter to ground, battery to battery, and alternator to amp meter.

I bought a heavy duty keyed on/off switch, and a heavy duty button to start the starter.

Also I completely stripped all 6 volt wiring from the tractor and rewired it according a great and simple diagram I received from someone here on the site.

I sacrificed my fuel gauge, but after working many years on a B and A and 60 without having a fuel gauge, I don't think I will miss it on this tractor.

The first time I started it up, I was amazed how fast the starter tuned the engine under compression, and how easy it was to start the tractor. I am so glad I went with the 24 volt system and not the 12 as most people do.

If anyone is considering this conversion, don't think twice because it is well worth the money and I wish I had done this years ago. Also again thanks to all the guys here that give me such good advice, and made this conversion much more easier.

Did you use the diagram I sent you?

Yes, it was a great help..thanks

I generally remember your previous posts. I think I remember that you weren't using lights? If I'm remembering wrong, how did you approach the lights?

(quoted from post at 02:58:30 08/01/18) I generally remember your previous posts. I think I remember that you weren't using lights? If I'm remembering wrong, how did you approach the lights?

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I have got to those yet, but from what I remember from a previous post, someone had said that you can get 24 volt lights, so that is what I will be looking at when install the lights.

I am still amazed at how easy this was to do, and how well the tractor starts now. For years I always hated trying to start that tractor with the pony motor, and would only do whenI really need it for something. Now with this electric start, I see myself using it every day around the farm.