Starter solenoid switch on 2N

[JTD2]

I have converted a 2N to 12 volt using a Motorcraft alternator, external regulator,and 12 v coil with external ballast resistor. It has always worked well. I want to add a typical Ford automotive solenoid switch (4 terminal) so it will start from a new key switch (not the manual button), and provide 12v to the coil when cranking by running a wire from the solenoid ignition terminal to the coil side of the ballast resistor. I didn"t find anywhere on this forum that anyone has done that and thought there must be a reason. I realize the factory neutral start feature would be eliminated, but I have an idea how to do that electrically. Comments?

 

[Salmoneye]

Wouldn't this bypass the safety interlock on the transmission?

This keeps the tractor from being started (electrically) while in gear...

 

[JTD2]

Yes it would. The interlock mechanically prevents the starter push button from being depressed if the tractor isn't in neutral. As I mentioned, I think I have a way of retaining the neutral start safety feature using an end switch.

 

[Mel-N-WV]

I have mine wired using a 4 post solenoid and the thumb switch. PO had by-passed the normal stater switch with a solenoid because the start switch had shorted out (hooked up and when the thumb button was pushed, arced like a welder). And was using the ignition switch(not the OEM switch) to start. I used it for a short time like this, but always mindful of the danger. Finally bought a new start switch, but decided not to do away with the solenoid. Now I have it wired like this. 14 gage wire from cold side of ignition switch to new start switch. 14 gage from other side of start switch to solenoid. Wired this way not only will it not start unless the tractor is in neutral, you cannot engage starter without the ignition switch being on.

 

[old-9]

I belive in "KISS" Keep It Simple & Safe. Why make it so complicated? More to go wrong, more to trouble shoot and repair.
I have a 1939 N with dash start button and it scares me to even leave the key in it that someone will get hurt. joe

 

[JTD2]

There's always more to the story. KISS is good. My left hand doesn't work like I'd like it to and it is difficult to turn the key where it's located. A new key switch on the right wired through a solenoid would solve that and could also provide 12 V to the coil during cranking for easier starting in winter. Mel - I like your idea of wiring the start signal through the stock starter switch to retain the neutral start safety.

 

[souNdguy]

yer oem ballast resistor setup kinda gives you a hotter spark at cold startup anyway without using a ignition bypass solenoid.

yer trying to out engineer something that worked fine in 39.. ( or a lil later anyway.. )

soundguy

 

[JTD2]

Thanks everyone for your comments. I installed the solenoid switch today and connected the ignition terminal to the coil side of the factory resistor. It starts noticeably quicker now, both cold and hot, and the key start is convenient.