1450 #2 running but w/ problems.
 

I installed a new, correct key switch from CCC. I also installed a new battery. She rotated 4 times, then fired off. The amp meter gauge is showing discharge, on the 1st line on the negative side. The headlights aren't working either. I shut the engine down , key was on and I tried the PTO, no click. Any ideas?

My guess would be a grounding issue somewhere.... Headlights work off a ground system, with the ground being the (-) and so is the PTO I believe. So if it isn't properly grounded then they will not work. I would take a wire diagram and trace the wires and see what should and shouldn't be grounded.

This afternoon I replaced the negitive cable from the frame to the battery, used my Dremel w/ wire brush and cleaned the frame where the negitive cable bolts to. I checked the engine ground cable. It was connected to the firewall mounting bolt and the voltage regulator. I moved it to ther starter mounting bolt and RS nose piece mounting bolt, like it is on my 1st 1450. Wired brushed both mounting points. I cleaned and lubed all electrical connectors I could find. I started the tractor, ampmeter gauge still shows discharge. With key off, I have voltage across the ampmeter gauge. I checked the headlights, nothing. I started checking the wiring for the headlights. The terminals on the light switch are rotten, so I need to replace the light switch. I turned the key on and tried the PTO, no click. I checked the PTO switch, no voltage. Checked the fuse holder and it was in 2 pieces.This I don't understand, with the PTO switch in the on position, the tractor won't crank, turn the PTO switch off and the tractor cranks. I know this is the proper condition for a fully operational tractor, but don't understand why this tractor is doing it.

PTO Switch
 

cdlong: The PTO switch has two poles; one pole turns the PTO ON when the switch is in the UP position; one pole allows current from the key switch's "S"tart terminal to flow to the brake switch; the brake switch allows current from the PTO switch to flow to the starter solenoid. In other words, one side of the PTO switch is wired in series with the brake safety switch on the ignition's "S"tart circuit.

Practically, this means that in order to start the tractor, the operator's foot needs to be on the brake and the PTO must be switched OFF.

The manufacturer is concerned that the driven equipment (like mower blades) not start moving either while starting nor immediately afterward, but only when the PTO switch is operated from OFF to ON.

Basically, what you're looking at is called a "safety interlock" --it ensures that the equipment is used as intended and any "accidents" that can be prevented are done so "automatically."

Thanks JayJay. Now that makes sense. Found that the ampmeter gauge was wired backwards this morning.

Amp Gauge
 

cdlong: Are you sure the Ammeter was wired backwards, and not the battery?

(Sorry, I couldn't resist --but stranger things have happened!)

Jeremiah

Yes, amp meter was wired backwards. I compared 1450 #2 to 1450 #1.

Two Tractors
 

cdlong: That is one advantage to having two identical tractors --good detective work!

(I wish I had had another tractor to reference when I was rebuilding my 782.)