Ferguson TO20 starts hard

bad monkey · Aug 15, 2015

Just bought my first tractor. Believe its a 1950 TO20. Figured that by using tractor data and serial number. Question I have is it's still 6V and the start has a hard time turning the engine over. Doesn't sound right to me. And on occasion the start stays spinning even after the tractor is shut off but it doesn't engage the flywheel. I'm not sure the starter is wired correctly and can't find any diagrams for. Before I replace the starter I would like to make sure the wiring is correct and not causing the problem or taking the starter out. Does anyone know where I can find the wiring diagrams? [/img]

Steve@Advance · Aug 15, 2015

This looks pretty close:

http://www.farmtalk.org/Ferguson/wiring.JPG

That model didn't use a starter solenoid, just a mechanical switch incorporated into the shifter. If the
starter is staying engaged, something is up with the switch.

Typical 6 v starting problems are:

Wrong size cables. Six volt systems pull lots of amps, need size 00 cables, bigger the better. Can't buy
them at Auto Zone, have to go to a truck supply, have them made. Another trick is to move the ground cable
from the body and go directly to the engine.

Worn starter bushings. Starter dragging, pulling too many amps, nothing left for spark.

The usual problems also, loose, dirty connections, low battery, bad battery, generator or regulator
problems, ignition problems, fuel problems, low compression.

If you get everything right, it will start on 6 volts. There is also a Harry Ferguson board below, lots of
specific info there. Hope this helps!

Spudm · Aug 16, 2015

I have a 1950 TO-20, and it starts right up on a 6 volt battery. Sounds like your starter may need a rebuild, not sure though.

Jason S. · Aug 16, 2015

One thing that will help is to move the battery ground from the dash where it is originally.... Move it down on the bellhousing. Also make sure where the starter mounts to the bellhousing is clean of grease and paint.

bad monkey · Aug 16, 2015

Well that helped a lot. Mine is set up now where near that diagram. Someone put a solenoid between the battery and the starter. Looking atv the diagram posted I have a few questions as I am not familiar at all with how this set up works.
First does the starter button get wired to the switch on top of the trans and is that a clutch safety switch? Looks like it in the diagram to me.
And second what isc the box that is wired in the starter system that bolts onto the battery tray?

Ferguson TO20 starts hard

bad monkey

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Steve@Advance

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Spudm

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Jason S.

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bad monkey

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