John Deere R Pony Motor Conversion

Kkluzak · Feb 11, 2020

I have a John Deere model R and the problem I have is the block for the pony motor is worn out where the main bearing goes. So what I was looking for is there any sort of kit where I can put a electric start conversion on this thing to to avoid finding a different pony motor, being finding a machinist in southern Minnesota that will bore out the main bearing and make me new bearing is basically impossible. Thanks in advance for any help.

Bob · Feb 11, 2020

(quoted from post at 20:51:31 02/11/20) I have a John Deere model R and the problem I have is the block for the pony motor is worn out where the main bearing goes. So what I was looking for is there any sort of kit where I can put a electric start conversion on this thing to to avoid finding a different pony motor, being finding a machinist in southern Minnesota that will bore out the main bearing and make me new bearing is basically impossible. Thanks in advance for any help.

If you want to convert to direct electric start and want to pony up the cash for the changeover and to keep a couple of good-sized batteries in it, well and good, it can be done, and a 'net search will lead you to part suppliers.

On the other hand, with a working "pony" your tractor can be starter from a half dead 6 Volt battery, or even from the cable "pull start".

Your $$$$, your choice.

I would think you could find a better block from salvage reasonably.

I'm in north central ND and have a decent block I'd sell you for $50.

comfortking · Feb 11, 2020

I have thought for a while how neat it would be to put a small diesel engine in place of the pony motor. Sure would be cool to see a little smoker start the big smoker.

joninmo · Feb 12, 2020

Try Biewer Tractor Salvage in Barnsville 1 218 493 4696

BarnyardEngineering · Feb 12, 2020

A quick google search comes up with New Paris Tractor Parts Co.. They list new complete conversion kits for 70/720/730 and 80/820/830 tractors. You could contact them about an R kit.

(574) 831-6820

John Deere D · Feb 12, 2020

I converted a JD "R" to 24 Volt Electric Start.....around 1975...
Starter was removed from a Caterpillar G333 6 cylinder Engine........

We operated the Tractor from May > October........

The conversion was a total success for our requirements.....

There is an add in TWO CYLINDER MAG .....stating JD "R" starter electric Start conversation kits...USA..

No connection in any way ...

Bob..

Kkluzak · Feb 12, 2020

Thanks guys for the advice. Bob we'll see how it goes but I might contact you later.

John Deere D · Feb 12, 2020

The 24 Volt charging system was removed from Cummins 250 Natural Asperated Power unit and installed on "R"..

Cummins 250 Unit had suffered a total Crank, Block, Camshaft failure.......

I installed the 24 Volt Starter from the Caterpillar G333 Engine...Cost was free for removal...

Alternator, 24 Volt from 250 Cummins Emergency stand by water pump....Cost was free for removal...

I have a Neighbor that would like to replace his Gasoline Starting unit on his JD "R"...

I've told him to purchase the kit from the "USA" as per advertised in Two Cylinder Mag....I shall not be fabricating another strait electric start system...

Bob....Retired Power Engineer ....

John Deere R Pony Motor Conversion

Kkluzak

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Bob

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comfortking

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joninmo

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BarnyardEngineering

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John Deere D

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Kkluzak

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John Deere D

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