Re: (ET) re: Tractor power problems

["Don Cohen" <bond007d netsync net>]

If the cruise isn't staying set, it is likely that there is a bad diode on
one of the diode boards (if you have them). One has just diodes and the
other has a thermistor also. Can't remember which board the particular 
diode
would be on. If you need more info, I can check my manual and notes and get
back to you. As to the resisitors, they come on whenever the green 
indicator
(can't remember what it is labled - maybe it's also the cruise indicator) 
is
off. When the indicator is lit (starting with foot pedal activating switch
3, I think), the tractor is making most efficient use of power. When off,
battery power is being wasted as heat. Also, if you have never seen the
cruise indicator on, it is probably burned out. I replaced mine myself (a
cut and paste kind of job), but you should also be able to order the whole
piece (bulb and housing) from Bill Gunn. You should check bulb continuity
with a multimeter before assuming it is bad.
Good luck,
Don Cohen

----- Original Message -----
From: Anthony Bailey <a636ccr semovm semo edu>
To: Rhett T. George <rtg ee duke edu>
Cc: Elec-Trak List <elec-trak cosmos5 phy tufts edu>
Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2000 12:05 PM
Subject: Re: (ET) re: Tractor power problems


> Ahhhh, there's a hint of my problem. I can't (never have been able
> to) get the cruise control to go on. I was checking the relays last
> night and the cruise relay does move when I hit the button but it
> won't stay. I've had mice in my tractor so its been fun cleaning them
> and the nests out. Luckily no chewed wires that I can find. My
> WheelHorse C-185 is equivalent to an GE E-20.
> Thanks, Tony
>
> >  - Anthony -
> >
> >The ribbon resistors up front should be switched out of the circuit
> >by the speed control setting once the tractor is underway.  That is
> >likely to be second or third notch on the controller (not knowing
> >what model your tractor is).  First notch definitely keeps the
> >big resistor in the circuit and does waste power.
> >
> >Switching the resistor out requires closing of one of the big
> >contactors which is quite audible.
> >
> >E-20 has a cruise control button which takes the big resistor(s0 out
> >of the circuit - most economical operation, batterywise.
> >
> > Rhett
>
> --
> this is coming to you from Anthony Bailey KC0HZP
> (mailto:a636ccr semovm semo edu)
> Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, Missouri  63701
>