Ford 5000 Tractor Generator Diagnosis and Repair 

Yup. If it wasn't for that teach drive its would be a cheap conversion. But the alternator with mechanical teach drive kit is about 300 and you cannot use an electronic teach on the diesel engines.

That’s what vintage British car owners call Lucas. Ask me how I know😊

Replacing a generator with any alternator is a common conversion done on old tractors. Since an alternator has regulation built into it, when converting, the regulator is not needed. Alternators are more efficient, and able to deliver more current on demand so great for running more lights etc. The issue with this tractor and several others is the tachometer drive on the back of that generator. They do make a special alternator with the drive on it but its around $300.

@@stevewatr thank you very much Steve👍

After I get the generator working I worked on the regulator. There is a playlist for the ford 5000. Also there is a video just on the lucas regulator repair.

There are a few causes that come to mind. First is too light a wire gage. The diesel tractor starters need more current. Size should be 2/0, and not then some as 2 AWG wire. A gas For tractor might even have 4 AWG, adding to the confusion. Wire thickness goes up a the gage number decreases until you get to 1AWG, then the numbers go up from 1/0 2/0 etc. If your wires are old and have corrosion, they will add resistance to the circuit causing issues. Lastly, if the wires are large enough and in good condition, it could be a bad starter. Just because it still turns does not mean its good. Sometimes the starter will start to turn slower and draw excessive current when near the ends of its life. By the way, the oem Ford starters are worth rebuilding ( in may opinion).

First I repaired the generator and then the regulator.