The tractor’s electrical system plays an essential role in its operation and the various functions it performs.
From engine starting to lighting and signalling, this system is also responsible for a number of other functions, such as auxiliary drive, power take-off and car monitoring systems.
The tractor is an essential piece of work for a farmer and it can happen that, due to a fault, the electrical system breaks down and leaves the operator in a big mess. What to do in such cases?
Waiting for an expert to come and repair the tractor’s electrical system would be the best solution. But when time runs out and work needs to be completed, there are a few simple steps you can take.
In what follows, we will discover the importance of the tractor’s electrical system and highlight its main components.
Here are some of its most important functions:
Starter actuation.
The electrical system provides the power to operate the starter, allowing the tractor to start and run.
Lighting and signalling.
Tractor lighting and signalling systems rely on the electrical system to supply power to headlights, lights, turn signals and brake lights. These components are essential for safety when working in the field, especially in poor visibility conditions.
Additional driving functions.
In modern tractors, the electrical system is responsible for operating several additional functions, such as auxiliary transmission, power take-off, torque shifters and regulators. This increases the versatility of the tractor and allows it to perform a variety of agricultural tasks.
Support for monitoring systems and precision agriculture.
The electrical system also plays a crucial role in supporting automatic machine monitoring systems and in the use of precision farming. It provides power for sensors, GPS devices and other components that contribute to the effective monitoring and management of agricultural activities.
Now that we understand the importance of the tractor’s electrical system, let’s learn about its main components:
Battery.
The battery is responsible for storing the energy needed to run the electrical system. It provides the initial power for starting and supplies the tractor’s other electrical requirements when the engine is switched off.
With regard to the battery of an agricultural vehicle, which is subject to strong vibrations during work, it is important to check whether the model we are looking at is equipped with systems to prevent fluid leakage and the possibility of topping up if necessary.
There must also be a locking system for the boards and hardened connections to protect them from continuous movement, as well as separators designed to prevent short circuits.
Another fundamental aspect is energy storage capacity and good resistance to charge/discharge cycles.
Generator.
The generator, also known as the alternator, is responsible for charging the battery and supplying power to all the tractor’s components when in operation.
Among the most sensitive parts of a tractor is undoubtedly the alternator. It is a technical part that converts mechanical and kinetic energy into electrical energy.
The work of the alternator, already essential in itself, becomes even more important in winter, when cold weather, rainfall and low temperatures mean that the tractor requires more effort to set up and operate correctly.
The best way to find the replacement alternator for your tractor is therefore to know the original part number of the original part fitted to your tractor. This is usually done by the manufacturers themselves, who usually indicate the number on the original alternator plate.
Another very important recommendation we would like to make is to always choose original spare parts. Alternators that are replicas of original parts risk damaging the tractor irreparably.
Voltage regulator.
The voltage regulator controls the amount of electricity supplied to the various tractor components. It ensures that the voltage is kept within the proper limits, preventing damage to electrical devices.
Starter.
The starter is battery powered and is used to start the tractor’s main engine. It requires a large amount of energy to run the engine until it starts. The surest way to identify the right electric motor for your tractor is to know the original part number. This is normally found engraved on the original piece.
Fuse box.
The fuse box contains the protective fuses for the electrical system. These fuses help prevent electrical overloads and short circuits, ensuring system safety.
Panel lighting and indicators.
Lighting components, such as headlights, flashlights and indicators or fuel and temperature gauges, are also essential parts of the system.
The tractor’s electrical system plays an essential role in the smooth running of the tractor, providing power for various functions. From starting the engine to lighting and signalling. It also supports machine monitoring systems and the use of precision farming.