Where it all goes..

 Not a huge amount of progress due to other obligations.

I have been measuring and test fitting batteries for locations. I made a few cardboard templates and dug out materials to make battery plates. I am still waiting for a bearing to use as a thrust bearing for the PTO so not working on motor mounts just yet. 

I had been thinking about the stock gas engine having an internal thrust bearing for PTO load. Not knowing how my dc motor would tolerate the side loads, I decided to add a thrust bearing between PTO and motor mount.

I am using parts on hand for build, including 2 kinds of batteries. I can’t parallel the dissimilar batteries so I am using an A/B system to use both sets, so this my get me close to mowing the whole lawn ( hopefully).

Dirty work

 Unfortunately I can’t just start building things without preparation work. I spent a few hours on cleaning things up.

I don’t know how long since this machine was cleaned but it seems like never. 

Once all the parts arrive, I will start building a mount for the electric motor 

New motor arrives!

 I had ordered a new DC motor last week and it arrived. I went with a permanent magnet type rated 12 horse power 20 peak. I would like a little bit more power but that comes with reduced battery run time.

Ground work

 With tractor at some 38 years old, there were a few issues, I started with repair of steering shaft bushing. I checked brakes, linkages etc.

I removed the engine after taking measurements to locate pto shaft location. I also measured for battery locations and placement.

Cleaning continues as I progress, lots of grease and old grass.

Wheel Horse Electric Conversion

 I purchased a Wheel Horse GT 1800 with plans to convert to electric power, the original engine was damaged so tractor was not too expensive.

Beginning of project