PTO Generator

Alakshak · Aug 19, 2009

I've been thinking about looking into PTO Generators to power my house due to some recent power outages. I have a 1949 Farmall H. Does anyone know anything about the efficiency of letting these tractors run in one spot for a given length of time? My concern is cooling properly. Also, what is the PTO horsepower rating for these tractors. I'm guessing about 28-30hp. Last but not least. What are some decent brands/models of PTO generators that I should persue?

mkirsch · Aug 20, 2009

An H could have anywhere from 23 to 30 PTO HP, depending on the condition of the engine and whether it was rebuilt with oversize pistons, had the head shaved, etc..

These tractors powered stationary equipment all the time when they were front line tractors on the farm. Ensilage cutters, blowers, threshers, and even generators... For hours on end.

Heck, even in the field, they weren't moving fast enough to affect the cooling efficiency when they were doing real work (i.e. plowing).

As long as the cooling system is in good shape, clean with clean coolant, the tractor will run for days at its rated load just sitting there.

Think about this, though: In a power emergency, you want a reliable backup power source. Does this H sit outside? How much do you have to fiddle with it to get it running? How often do you run it?

If you can't rely on your H to fire right off, any time, any weather, then you don't want to depend on it for emergency power.

Around here, the big generator names are Winpower, Generac, and Winco.

Gene Popkes · Aug 20, 2009

The H will work fine. Allow two HP per KW. If you are buying new, get a Winco.

Roger46 · Aug 21, 2009

I have a 15kw PTO generator I bought at an auction several years ago. I have used it on several of my tractors including a B, Super C, Super H, and MD with no problems. I have never had to run it for any extended time like for days, usually only for hours. The main problem with using a tractor for extended periods of time on a generator is similar to when our neighbor used to use a tractor on an irrigation pump. If the engine overheats or loses oil pressure the engine with self distruct if not monitored. Generator engines have low oil pressure and overheat shutoff switches to prevent this. If your H doesn't use any oil you will probably be OK just checking it every time you fill up with gas. Roger

PTO Generator

Alakshak

New User

mkirsch

Well-known Member

Gene Popkes

Member

Roger46

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