I have an interlock and portable generator. It's a fantastic setup for me. I put color dots in my panel for using gen power. Green dot breakers are good. Blue dots mean limited, only 1 at a time. Red dots stay off. 👍
I also run an inter-lock and its the best thing. Can't throw the main on without killing the generator switch. Guarantees no back feed and its short change
I see the neutral tied in to the panel with the grey with black stripe wire that circuit doesn't get broken backfeeding the neutral a switch breaks all 3 lines to the transformer and reconnects to all 3 lines of the generator not too much of an issue unless the ground wire is broken but still has potential to back feed to the transformer nice generator thought i have a miller welder generator i want to convert to be pto driven
Great video on genny options for whole home use. Personally, I'll stick with the auto transfer switch LP powered generac simply because if power is out when no one home especially during heavy rainfall, the sump pump wouldn't be running. Plus if power goes out like it has in middle of Wisconsin winter ice storms, it'd be no fun battling the elements. But I do like excuse of having a manual generator to buy a second tractor 😊
Not only is this a good point, but a dedicated generator has a much better governor on it than a tractor does, and therefore having better frequency control. Most standby generators can stay within 1Hz plus or minus, and frequently are less than 0.5Hz. PTO generators were great for running a milking parlor, but until they come up with an inverter version, or electronics become more tolerant of off spec power, I think their utility is limited.
If your worried about putting hours on your tractor, your shouldn’t have a tractor. You have to be able to utilize it to make the investment worthwhile.
First, thanks for finally getting to this video. Since others have touched on it, I won't go into great detail, but....I normally don't put too fine of a point on the rating of a plug, as long as the wires are sized correctly, but pulling close to double the amperage is bound to be a problem. Breakers should be sized for the weakest link in the system, to prevent problems. Also the electrical load is pretty unbalanced, while not as big of an issue when on utility power, it is hard on the generator. It will never be perfect, but figure out which 120 volt circuits you would likely be using while on generator (240 volt circuits are pulling from both buss bars and therefore already balanced), and swap some to the other buss bar until you reach something halfway close to a balanced load.
Are you going to adjust the tractor rpm's to get the hertz dead on 60? Power companies run exactly 60 hertz........???? The 61 hertz or so you were running should be fine, but.......
Hey Tim! I’ve got a UPS from APC at each modem and router location in my house. When I load test my generator each month the internet doesn’t go down. Just a thought for you. Ps- I’ve got a geothermal system as well and love it. PPS- after reading all the comments, I should mention I have a small UPS setup at all my electronics (our tv, my computer, son’s fancy PC etc). It negates any issues with “unclean” power coming off the genny. I also have one on the automatic cat feeder so they don’t starve if we’re on vacation ….
Seeing that you were pulling 80+ amps on one leg and 60 amps on the other at one time, you need to really be sure the wiring and receptacles are up to the task(that 50A connector isn't). Granted, you might never actually pull that much power since you were doing this as a demonstration, but it is something to be aware of. Also, be ready to cry a bit at the price of 100A receptacles.
I was thinking of my home made aluminum blocker that I made for ours. I was going to try to describe it and you already have one and I hate to admit it looks better than mine. lol That looks like a Square D box so the half breakers will work in that box. Mine is a 1995 box so pre 1995 I can't be sure of. I was never an electrician nor did I play one on TV. The good news, if you'll do this the power will never go off again. I set mine power up roughly 10 years a go and haven't used it yet. We are in the mountains of SE Tennessee so it's protected from the wind.
We used our PTO generator a few times during ice storms on the farm growing up. Very handy. We had most of the farm on a disconnect switch at the power pole. Very handy when needed!
Thanks for sharing this timely info - it's always great to have options when the power goes out. I'm currently using a large portable generator with a Generlink attached to the outside meter - pretty simple to set up when the power drops. I also think you're going to need a 2nd channel - TTWC (Tractor Time With Christy).
The Generlink device works great and it's simple to use. Our power company installed it at no charge. Not sure how the cost compares to Tim's method. It's not real inexpensive.
A couple things to keep in mind when using a PTO generator: 1) Tractors aren't meant to run unattended- it could overheat or lose oil pressure with you being unaware. Stand-alone generators will have automatic shut-downs in the event of oil pressure loss or overheating (if liquid-cooled).2) Because compact tractors generally have fairly small fuel systems, keeping an eye on the fuel level is a good idea unless bleeding a fuel system in the worst weather during the wee hours of the morning is your idea of fun. 3) The standards for recreational marine generators (I use this reference because I'm a marine electrician) specify maintaining a frequency of between 57 and 63 hertz, which the tractor may not do as well as a stand-alone generator. 4) Boats often have multiple sources of AC power. Source selection is usually done with either a break-before-make rotary switch, or a sliding lockout to permit only one of multiple circuit breakers to be on at one time, similar to what Tim installed, and the generally preferred method. 5) Shorepower connections for boats use what are called twist-lock connectors, where the connection plugs in then twists to lock it in place. These usually incorporate a means for making the connection weather-tight, and are available up to 100A 240V, but are also quite expensive. 6) Plugs and sockets are prone to overheating due to corrosion or poor fitment when operating at higher loads for extended periods. It's a good idea to periodically put a hand on the plug or check it with an infra-red temperature gun. 7) Several people have commented on having unbalanced loads on the generator (that is, low amp draw on one leg and high amp draw on the other). Generators should have a specification on how much imbalance they can tolerate- better units are unaffected by a 0%/100% imbalance. I don't intend my comments to be criticism, merely food for thought.
The baumalight kr30 Tim was using in this video (and their entire pto generator line) have a stated automatic voltage regulation within +/- 1% from 56 to 64 Hz. If you set your tractor at the rpm for optimal pto speed (usually indicated on the tach) the unit will easily handle increased and decreased load changes. I think the modern pto generators built by more reputable mfgs will definitely handle the job. As for the tractor low oil, low oil pressure, low fuel, this would be more of an issue on older tractors, newer Travis with an ecu will derate/power down for the first 2. Out of fuel is not much of an issue for restart. The current L5P duramax restarts in less than 20 seconds after replacing fuel filter leaving the filter canister empty, all of the newer tractors I've worked with are easy to start, just power cycle the key a few times to reprise, and you are off and running
@@oefveteran09I have a 1 series, it’s the smallest tractor I have ever been on, but it does what I want it to do. My friend has one also and ran his out of fuel and called to bring him some more. I thought man this is going to be a chore. I was wrong. Electric fuel pump primed it real easy. It is also the first hydrostatic tractor I have ever been on. Had to get used to the petal on the left not being a clutch.
Tim, Christy, you two do you! May god bless you in all your endeavors. Me and mine will be here for every video, even the ones that have no relevance. P.S. Christy, you're running that grapple better than I could! You have experience with grapples, I'm happy to have tractor!
I liked your analysis of different solutions/options. Your suggestion of a second tractor is certainly a consideration for some folks, and does offer flexibility and utility. Nice work Christy and looks like you’ve mastered the grapple as well. Blessings.
Yes, the regulator on the generator can control the voltage by changing the excitation of the field. However, RPM determines frequency, which is changing with the PTO RPM. Some devices are really picky about 60hz.
Nice set up with the PTO generator, convenient to have the interlock device for the existing panel instead of a separate panel with a manual transfer switch.
Cool setup! I doubt you'd really run it at the same level you are testing at today...but keep in mind at your peak load, you were nearly running 100A through a 50A rated connector. Hope you are staying warm!
I hope all had a safe and happy new year. I am looking forward to see if a 1025 can run that generator. As you had said, it was very loud near the unit. That will draw a bit of attention to the tractor. How would we go about, stopping someone from stealing our running tractors?
Tim good job with the interlock device. Obviously like others stated you shouldn’t be going over 50amps with your setup. Couple questions for you. What size breaker did you install in the panel? What size wire did you use to the breaker? What size cable/wire came with the generator? How does the cable connect to the generator?
Been using a 16kW PTO generator for about 3 years now on my 2038R. I have transfer switch up near the meter, our meter is about 150' from the house so it puts the noise a good bit further from the house. Can really only hear it if I am in a room at the front of the house. As for the needing the tractor while dealing with storm cleanup, well everyone is helping during the cleanup phase so no one really needs to be in the house and needing power. We actually had a recent storm that tested this for me and it worked fine, the storm knocked power out for several days and it dropped 6 very large trees across our driveway that I had to clear and needed the tractor to do it. Work for a few hours, take a break and power the house. Rinse and Repeat. Other item with running a PTO is you need FUEL, and you need to conserve it. I do not run it at night cause we have wood stoves and do not need it for heat and i dont want that noise while sleeping. Climate is Maine so heat is always a concern but that is why we have wood stoves. Biggest negative to PTO generator I see is it can not be left unattended for long, tractor only hold ~8 gal of fuel. So if you need power even if you are not home then it is not the option.
Overspeed warning is warning you because your 60hz frequency is not 60hz.. Faster you go the higher the frequency goes. You have to be VERY careful. Alot of electrical devices will fry if you go above 63hz or below 57hz. Frequency converters / regulators are VERY expensive.. So with that you have to ensure your at 60hz. Be VERY stringent on how far outside of 60hz you are. It shows on your display. You can also purchase a "kill-a-watt" device that you can monitor from any wall outlet in your home while running off generator power. Most devices will run off 90 volts up to 125vac without issue . But not much tolerance if the frequency/hz...
I'm in Carteret County on the NC coast and have been contemplating upgrading my portable generator. I was wondering if my 1025R could be used to power the house with a PTO driven generator. Look forward to your next video.
The only issue is tractor governors are not built for generators. The power company frequency band is 59.98 - 60.02. your generator is running at 61+ and this can damage frequency sensitive equipment.
ALL these setup connections are confusing to me on WHICH to do, I think I will get a Generlink that mounts between the glass meter and it's base, such has the plug in on the bottom for generator cable, and the unit automatically turns on & off from the grid as it senses whatever, NO internal house wiring etc. necessary
Generlinks aren't allowed in all places. Sometimes its local code and sometimes its the utility company that doesn't wants a device attached to the meter.
105 amps on even just one of the legs, through a 50A inlet? Seems like it might not be the best idea. Hopefully the interlock breaker is the proper 50A, in which case, it can handle 105A for a minute or two then it will safely disconnect. Impressive amount of power being generated.
One word of caution with all of that running. You can see that you are exceeding the rating of your plug. I know typically that you wouldn't be running all of that at one time. But I just wanted to make sure you are aware. Overall, it was a very nice install. I have the same setup in my panel for a 20kw diesel generator that I have wired into my home. It is permanent install down here i. south Louisiana. We have hurricanes, so backup power is essential. Most of my family have a very similar setup as you wish the pto generators. I have always liked them and would love to have one some day as a means for portable power.
@TractorTimewithTim exactly I was going to hook up my sisters house up that way also. Maybe we need to find one that we could use. Please don't take it wrong. I understand exactly what you are dealing with. I love the fact that you created a good video on the complete setup.
I can never understand when i drive by one of the local farmers why he has a quarter million dollar tractor burning engine hours parked running the PTO to power al old $500 augur that could easily be running of a small gas motor. This unit reminds me of that setup - why would you simply not get a generator with a motor instead of putting wear and hours on a tractor where you have to consider engine hours as a loss of resale value. Thanks for the Video!
Because the augers nowadays require 120hp or more. Also, I don’t see many running augers with new tractors. Usually bigger older tractors…the old family favorites. My family uses Oliver 1950-T and Deere 4620.
@@TractorTimewithTim Thanks for the reply Sir. I had no idea they had that kind of a power requirement! Mind you, I was asking the neighbor if she had set up a new wireless access point, but no it was the rental Brandt augur.. that thing even has a WIFI access point built into it for some kind of management or tracking! Goes to show how far behind the times I am with some of this newer equipment.
With all due respect, as a generator installer, I can put an automatic system into your home that starts automatically for 15k or less. With the setup you have, you're well over 35k with the tractor, generator and electrical parts. Furthermore, you're limited to the 50A of that plug and inlet. You're far exceeding that with your testing. Not smart.
The power of Proverbs and an alternate generator. Never knew it was an option. Thanks for all the tips...and I think you made it clear to create the proper bypass. And thinking about it, I can justify having another tractor. Thanks.
The one thing I found out about any generator, is if they have a very low THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) that won't harm Computer controlled appliances, That was my biggest fear of having a power spike or low voltage, burning something up. I have a 15kw Winco Pto generator and only requires 30 pto hp for max output and doe's a great job and is electronics safe.
If anybody is considered doing this or even putting in a transfer switch. Now is the time to do it. The worst thing and I can say this with experience is knowing you've got a transfer switch sitting on your workbench just waiting to get installed and a giant ice storm rips through knocking your power out . And honestly just a basic knowledge is all you need to do it yourself. With that being said if you're not comfortable obviously hire somebody. But there is so much information out there even here on UA-cam that shows you how to do it it's easy to understand. One thing I would suggest to everybody is get a long enough cord so you can fairly conveniently locate your generator. Without having to fight through snow banks to get to it
if you had quick disconnect fittings on the coolant lines for the cab heater, those could be tied into the floor heating using a heat pump and setting up a garage right with a muffler exhaust. was told natural gas costs 5 times less then liquid fuel... so then that comes down to actual running costs. 10kw/hr/month electric/heat combined is a average when it is -60 outside... tho if your generator starts back feeding into the grid the time meter charges ya for it as it is monodirectional and the smaller braker trips when the bigger end comes back on creating a phase surge in the process.
Nice video Tim! I have a generac gas unit and works fine for the whole house. It’s an 8k unit. At some point I’ll want more but the wallet decides that. I’m curious how long you can run before you need to refill the tractor. Best wishes and Happy New Year!
Nope. In fact, we pay attention to it the usage. Our most important items are the well pump, freezer refrigerators, furnace, and a few lights. We won’t use washer or dryer unless we need to not the oven. We could, but we just make sure other things aren’t being used. It’s a good little generator. I run it at least once a month for a good 1/2 hour.
Back feed or no back feed. I don’t know any electricians that work on anything without testing it first. Those that don’t. Aren’t around to talk about it. lol 😂
I beg the differ on relability. While they may not be an apple to apple comparison to a new one. I do beliee some very old tractors can be as reliable as they were when they were new, and quite frankly last much longer than a new one.
How much fuel does the setup use? What happens to tractor temps under load with 8hrs run time? Do you have enough diesel on hand for 24 hrs of run time?
In my neck of the woods power outages are fairly common, sometimes several days long. Love that PTO gen, but no way I could listen to that thing roar for hours on end. Thanks for the vid I know I was one of the ones who kept asking about it!
Tim, that is a very nice unit to provide power. but where do you cross the line to having a complete engine and generator in one unit? The cost of adding an auction tractor of a proper size and with at least the minimum in reliability because you don't want Old Salty to give up the ghost at the wrong time. The Baumalight is a portable unit, so that advantage is good, but you can get almost that much power out of a complete generator that is portable too. Christy, you did a wonderful job with the chain saw and the grapple.
Over all quite good, I’ve been an electrician for 34 years, and counting. I really like the manual add-on apparatus. Your panel doesn’t use half width breakers you would use QO tandem. Food for thought, balance your loads in the house better(so you draw as close to even as you can. That will be tedious. This way your generator, will be balanced. I’m not sure of your size of breaker or wire. I think, from my couch in New York, they’re 50 amp rated. So that will be your weak point. It appeared the one phase was much higher during the demo. Most breakers are designed to trip at 80% of breaker rating at continuous duty. The receptacle is called a flanged inlet. And your plug/ receptacle. Is called a California twist lock. Not sure why manufacturer gets California involved but that’s just what they call it. Like I said overall great job. You explained very well.
If I calculate correctly, the only risky spot in my circuit is the plug/receptacle. It is rated at 50 amps. Wire is big enough, breaker big enough, etc. I just haven’t found a cost effective 125amp plug/receptacle. Can you help?
@@TractorTimewithTim I think “ cam locks “ would be the best. But they’re not as clean of look. I really feel if you balanced your loads, and kept an eye on your “plug and cap”. It’s not going to melt at 51.5 amps. If you’re overloading for a real long time, it will be evident look for discoloration in the plastic. Overloading will just mean you’ll have to replace sooner. Wire is most important to be correct size, being in conduit you won’t notice an issue. And too small of a breaker, will give nuisance trips. Common sense. I’m not sure if you will ever have long term power issues. But during an emergency, just be reasonable( usage) . It’s obvious you’ve got a great generator. Your plan so far is great.
I recently purchased a used qr30. I have tested it up to about 11kw using my kubota 70hp. No sweat at all. Looking at buying an older 32hp Yanmar tractor with the 3-4speed pto’s. Would like to be able to throttle down when I know power demands are low. Most of the time 6-8kw is all we need. So 15-18 pto hp would suffice.
At the peak you hit 22.7kw which is right at 95 amps, you are going to melt that 50 amp plug if it is run like that very long. You need to go to a heavy blade style connector like what is used on a winch quick connector “Anderson style plug”. Also you should be more concerned about the hertz than the voltage, modern electronics need to be as close to 60 hertz as possible to keep from causing damage.
You should remove the content to this video that describes the backfeed of your electrical utility service. You made a joke about shocking a utility worker. Do you realize a backfeed of 240 turns into 7200 volts on the street? It's life or death out there. Stick to talking about tractors!
Great video, Tim, happy new year, it looks like you’re going to get a little cold up there. Where to study 57° for all next week which is in 70 but I’ll take it again happy new year Lee and Marcia..
In another 30 days we should be in the 70s if those gray sky’s are getting to you , come on down to where the 1860s civil War started. Front door is always open.
We had one to power our Dairy during outages and it was a 540 pto connection but we would use the 1000 Pto connection on the tractor and a spline adapter from 1000 to 540 to allow the tractor to idle at lower rpm consuming less fuel. Have to use the volt meter to ensure the tractor rpm is not to high or the voltage output of the generator is not to high.
Tim, Keep up the good work! From the comments I'm amazed at the number of keyboard lunatics that can't read or hear and proceed to dramatize a subject you covered in the video. As Will Rogers said "commen sense ain't that common".
Do you have a clamp on amp meter? at 22kw at 240 volts you are at 91 amps if all the load is 240 volts. Your max continuous 240 load is only 9.6kw with your 50 amp plug. Just your geothermal alone in backup heat mode is about 45 amps. As a general rule electrical devices are rated for an 80 percent constant load. Plugs are a weak point in any system and loaded anywhere near rating the female end heats up taking the spring tension out of the plug resulting in more resistance, more heat, less tension and that cycle repeats till the inevitable failure and possible fire. I can't begin to count all the chard burnt remains of plugs I have replaced thru the years due to just that problem. Your only safe and code means of keeping what you have is to limit the generators output to 40 amps by fuses or breaker ahead of your plug. In your situation you need a connection means rated for what the generator will provide, that being 125 amps. My 60kw Cat portable has color coded Marinco 400 amp rated cam lock connectors on it and they are an affordable means of quick connect with a rating sufficient for the purpose. There is two sizes the smaller being 150 amp rated and the larger is 400 amp rated and those I have used even for locomotive jumper cables. At least you have a brick wall that receptacle is mounted on. If you need more power let me know,, I got a 75kw 3 phase PTO generator that will eventually be looking for a new home.
Great video. Don't you need a bigger, higher amperage connector going into the house. You have a 30kw generator but you actually can only put in ~11kw with the 50 A connector and I'm assuming a 50 A breaker. Seems like it would trip if you needed to use the emergency heat for a long time. Love your channel. Keep up the great work.
@@TractorTimewithTim From what I found when putting together my transfer switch and was looking for a 60A connector for my 16kW unit is they dont really make a panel mounted male 60A connector. The generator had a 14-60R so I made a cable with a 14-60P on the end to plug into the generator and the other end is hard wired to the transfer switch. Cable is just long enough to reach the generator where i park it. When not in use I have a hanger on the back of the meter stand for it. (meter, transfer switch not near house)
I have added a pigtail to my setup with the Anderson connectors that allows me to get ~100 A out of my 20Kw generator. It looks like your generator has the same ports on the back. Thanks again for spending all the time making useful videos.
@@CJIEngineering do they make large 4 pin anderson connectors? Never thought about do that, but also did not know they made big enough 4 pin ones. Bet that requires a good bit of force to connect/disconnect.
RPM controls cycle per second. In the USA it's 60 Cycle. If RPM drops cycle will drop which is not good. Commercial Stand Alone Gen Sets have a Special Electronic gov that controls engine RPM. I hope your tractor has good RPM control with loads.
If I did my math right, you whole house is wired for 50 amps max/ That is not very much power. I started typing BEFORE I heard "Geo Thermal". I had a large heat pump for part f the house, and a gas fired heater for the rest of the house. Plus water pump and a few lights. Good job on the wiring, and the video!!
that’s why after watching Jimmy Houston on his channel show his Jackery solar generator’s. Here’s where you gotta learn “juice” factors. With Jackery their models correspond with max items you can run. So when you shop make a list what’s gotta run. verses a day or more not needed. Yes they plugs like in your house. Usb to get the c usb 1,000 watt minimum. they have come out with their new design it tells you draw and how long it will last. Models now are their pro stow carry handles. but at the time i shopped the pros costed more. Yes now they have a big boy 30 amp unit plug. on wheels. The bigger the units the more panels to be set up hopefully the weather is bright. love my units. my mother is getting older so i bought her an electric recliner anniversary but my 1,000 tad bit under powered. so let’s look blue etti something not to break the bank so she can run her coffee pot or sewing machine get in or out of the chair. remember which unit and route you go what are you running. see owners manual on devices. match accordingly what i like about my option no gas or oil to fool with keep charged check six months status plug in top off. When you receive your units half charge plug in to 100%. the 1,000 unit of jackery has a blue light charging green done. and the larger units have a built in work led light. keep stored in fire proof bags things like c-pap machines are important electric blankets portable stoves lamps not every one has the money for a tractor set up refrigerators kids toys electronics night lights quiet just a quiet cooling fan. no jackery either is water proof jackery units keep out of direct sun light minus the solar panels 1,000 will run pellet grill for about two hours ten flash low warning charge me.
I see multiple issues. As mentioned by others the 50A plug/inlet is under rated. The generator does not appear to be intended for use in wet weather with open vents and exposed receptacles. Watching the frequency on the display, this unit isn't very stable. The cost from Baumalight for this unit is $8721.60 with the discount they offer. I have a customer with a PTO generator and we are quoting his install with a Generac automatic transfer switch with a slight modification to install a toggle switch to make it manually operable. We will run his connectoon for the pto generator out from the house and provide a box with the whip to plug in to the Anderson connector on the PTO generator. Should he later go with a permanent standby generator everything will be in place for it and the transfer switch will be set back to normal automatic operation. We would install a 26kw Generac for him today for about $11,000 but he would have to provide the propane tank.
We pulled our meter, sticks 1/4 copper plates in the lugs, and vice gripped #6 wire from there back to the generator. And yes, all of that meets national code.
When setting up our generator feed, our sparky installed a Mains/Off/Generator 3-way switch in the main board. Your solution does the same thing in essence. But, we only have 3kW!
It certainly could be a better use of $ if you have room for an extra tractor and the combined costs of tractor&pto gen. were not much more than the stand alone generator. Your previous statement about helping a neighbor/friend/family also is a plus over stand alone Since you had the generator on a small trailer, putting a roof and insulated sidewalls on it would cut down on that noise, and you could move the whole works farther from the house(as far away as the cord allows) which would reduce noise also. I think the drone of the generator is far preferable to freezing, sweltering, and losing all your refrigerated&frozen foods. Where I am, not even one tractor fits in my yard.😒 Still looking at getting the stand alone to run off nat. gas.
I know it would have cost a lot more but i would have been tempted to put the plug near the garage door on concrete so it is much easier to get the generator where you need it if there is a lot of snow. I still remember the blizzard of 1978 in NW Ohio. 10-15' snow drifts.
Safety nazies! Lol Great information on gen power. I use what is called a suicide plug because both ends are male. It certainly is not the correct way of powering up the house but I'm always very careful and check everything twice before firing up the generator. Might justify a second tractor with a generator after all...🤔
I literally just did this last weekend. Found a beat up 5k with a Honda, fixed everything on it. About 80 bucks, maybe 100, to do the outlet, cord, and disconnect kit. Tested running the whole house including my heat pump!
I like watching your videos and I like to read all the other comments other people have to say, and I like to see what implements you can get for a John Deere 1025r tractor.
I debated using my tractor as a generator option. Is the generator/tractor noise at a level where you could sleep through the night? I now have a 27KW NG @ 85DB that conveniently is on the other side of the house.
I'd be looking for a spare main breaker. I've lost count of how many times a whole panel had to be changed due to the main breaker not being able to be reset. A spare main @$250 is a whole lot cheaper than a whole new panel.
Thanks Tim. Nice work. And just so you know, we have a poultry farm with a 120kw and auto transfer switch and alarms on every house. It all works great until you need it😂.
Good video…..I’m about to add a home generator (used one) to my house. If the auto switch is too expensive for my setup, I may wind up using the same safety switch you have shown here. I don’t mind going outside and switching it manually. Sure will beat hauling the heavy small generator and running extension cords for limited power. Good point on second tractor too….I kick myself for selling my old yanmar when I got a newer model (newer to me) Kubota.
Tim, this question is not about this video. I have a 2018 1025R with many attachments, including Ibex TS52 Power harrow, 48" Phoenix Flail mower, box blade, backhoe, ballast box, 4' Wheel Harrow; Mulch Bucket; Std Dirt Bucket. Based on your experience, what would be the best way to sell these items (Marketplace? JD Forums? Craig's????). I'm asking your this question, because I trust you. We are moving overseas so can't bring these with me. Many Regards, Larry (California)
Probably Facebook marketplace. Sell backhoe, loader and bucket with tractor. Sell the rest independently…my opinion. Price aggressively. Used demand (and prices) are dropping.
thanks for the great advise. I agree matching the Backhoe with the tractor and dirt bucket has more appeal. You helped me improve my decision. Thanks. Larry. @@TractorTimewithTim
Very interesting. Especially if considering having a second tractor for this purpose...how does the cost for a "regular" generator that would put out the same power, compare with buying the PTO generator...presuming you either have the other tractor already or would get a more used/cheaper tractor for that purpose?
After a lot of research and consideration I recently went with a NG Generac for 3 reasons. 1. The wife would never mess with a PTO solution if I am not around. 2. As I approach retirement age, not sure I want to mess with it either. 3. My tractor is not big enough to run more than 10kw. I guess it's up to you decide if you think the extra cost of a Generac is worth the convenience...and to clarify the Generac is only more $ because of the installation. If you have to pay electricians ... likely not much of a price difference between the two options. As far as operating costs go...diesel is likely the cheapest, followed by NG and propane a distant third. Most if not all air cooled home standby generators are NOT continuous duty rated, so if you are worried about a long term event (more than a couple days)...an air cooled generator is not for you. The PTO generator in this video could likely run for weeks continuously without too much worry.
Great setup for emergency power. I also use the Gen interlock switch on my panel. Installed it a couple years ago and only needed to use it once since then. I have the B&S 5500 watt gen for backup power. Thanks for the Vid.
Like the idea. However, for the cost of that particular unit, you could pay for a dedicated LP or diesel whole house unit probably with the switchover built in (and quieter). The nice thing about the PTO one is it's portable.
I have an interlock and portable generator. It's a fantastic setup for me. I put color dots in my panel for using gen power. Green dot breakers are good. Blue dots mean limited, only 1 at a time. Red dots stay off. 👍
I also run an inter-lock and its the best thing. Can't throw the main on without killing the generator switch. Guarantees no back feed and its short change
I see the neutral tied in to the panel with the grey with black stripe wire that circuit doesn't get broken backfeeding the neutral a switch breaks all 3 lines to the transformer and reconnects to all 3 lines of the generator not too much of an issue unless the ground wire is broken but still has potential to back feed to the transformer nice generator thought i have a miller welder generator i want to convert to be pto driven
A Stupid Question , Who is going set up and run the Generator while no one is at Home?
The power won’t go out when it is cold and I’m not at home. ---hey, it is as good an answer as most of the keyboard warriors here today are giving!
Great video on genny options for whole home use. Personally, I'll stick with the auto transfer switch LP powered generac simply because if power is out when no one home especially during heavy rainfall, the sump pump wouldn't be running. Plus if power goes out like it has in middle of Wisconsin winter ice storms, it'd be no fun battling the elements. But I do like excuse of having a manual generator to buy a second tractor 😊
Not only is this a good point, but a dedicated generator has a much better governor on it than a tractor does, and therefore having better frequency control. Most standby generators can stay within 1Hz plus or minus, and frequently are less than 0.5Hz. PTO generators were great for running a milking parlor, but until they come up with an inverter version, or electronics become more tolerant of off spec power, I think their utility is limited.
haha second tractor! I always say, once you have one chain saw you find you need a second ... same with the tractor!
If your worried about putting hours on your tractor, your shouldn’t have a tractor. You have to be able to utilize it to make the investment worthwhile.
Fair enough, but there IS a consideration there. Hours cost more on a newer tractor. ...and they DO add up pretty fast when running continually.
First, thanks for finally getting to this video. Since others have touched on it, I won't go into great detail, but....I normally don't put too fine of a point on the rating of a plug, as long as the wires are sized correctly, but pulling close to double the amperage is bound to be a problem. Breakers should be sized for the weakest link in the system, to prevent problems. Also the electrical load is pretty unbalanced, while not as big of an issue when on utility power, it is hard on the generator. It will never be perfect, but figure out which 120 volt circuits you would likely be using while on generator (240 volt circuits are pulling from both buss bars and therefore already balanced), and swap some to the other buss bar until you reach something halfway close to a balanced load.
Are you going to adjust the tractor rpm's to get the hertz dead on 60? Power companies run exactly 60 hertz........???? The 61 hertz or so you were running should be fine, but.......
Tim, don't forget to re-label your panel if you haven't already done so. Well done. Have another productive day.
Hey Tim! I’ve got a UPS from APC at each modem and router location in my house. When I load test my generator each month the internet doesn’t go down. Just a thought for you.
Ps- I’ve got a geothermal system as well and love it.
PPS- after reading all the comments, I should mention I have a small UPS setup at all my electronics (our tv, my computer, son’s fancy PC etc). It negates any issues with “unclean” power coming off the genny. I also have one on the automatic cat feeder so they don’t starve if we’re on vacation ….
Seeing that you were pulling 80+ amps on one leg and 60 amps on the other at one time, you need to really be sure the wiring and receptacles are up to the task(that 50A connector isn't). Granted, you might never actually pull that much power since you were doing this as a demonstration, but it is something to be aware of. Also, be ready to cry a bit at the price of 100A receptacles.
I would have turned on the toaster, stove , all the lights, Christmas lights, vaccuum cleaner, and anything else. Just to see.
I was thinking of my home made aluminum blocker that I made for ours. I was going to try to describe it and you already have one and I hate to admit it looks better than mine. lol That looks like a Square D box so the half breakers will work in that box. Mine is a 1995 box so pre 1995 I can't be sure of. I was never an electrician nor did I play one on TV. The good news, if you'll do this the power will never go off again. I set mine power up roughly 10 years a go and haven't used it yet. We are in the mountains of SE Tennessee so it's protected from the wind.
We used our PTO generator a few times during ice storms on the farm growing up. Very handy. We had most of the farm on a disconnect switch at the power pole. Very handy when needed!
Thanks for sharing this timely info - it's always great to have options when the power goes out. I'm currently using a large portable generator with a Generlink attached to the outside meter - pretty simple to set up when the power drops. I also think you're going to need a 2nd channel - TTWC (Tractor Time With Christy).
The Generlink device works great and it's simple to use. Our power company installed it at no charge. Not sure how the cost compares to Tim's method. It's not real inexpensive.
A couple things to keep in mind when using a PTO generator: 1) Tractors aren't meant to run unattended- it could overheat or lose oil pressure with you being unaware. Stand-alone generators will have automatic shut-downs in the event of oil pressure loss or overheating (if liquid-cooled).2) Because compact tractors generally have fairly small fuel systems, keeping an eye on the fuel level is a good idea unless bleeding a fuel system in the worst weather during the wee hours of the morning is your idea of fun. 3) The standards for recreational marine generators (I use this reference because I'm a marine electrician) specify maintaining a frequency of between 57 and 63 hertz, which the tractor may not do as well as a stand-alone generator. 4) Boats often have multiple sources of AC power. Source selection is usually done with either a break-before-make rotary switch, or a sliding lockout to permit only one of multiple circuit breakers to be on at one time, similar to what Tim installed, and the generally preferred method. 5) Shorepower connections for boats use what are called twist-lock connectors, where the connection plugs in then twists to lock it in place. These usually incorporate a means for making the connection weather-tight, and are available up to 100A 240V, but are also quite expensive. 6) Plugs and sockets are prone to overheating due to corrosion or poor fitment when operating at higher loads for extended periods. It's a good idea to periodically put a hand on the plug or check it with an infra-red temperature gun. 7) Several people have commented on having unbalanced loads on the generator (that is, low amp draw on one leg and high amp draw on the other). Generators should have a specification on how much imbalance they can tolerate- better units are unaffected by a 0%/100% imbalance.
I don't intend my comments to be criticism, merely food for thought.
The small Deere’s are fairly easy to start if you run them out of fuel. Surprised me how easy.
Most almost all you said doesn’t apply to tractors and pto generators that are built these days.
The baumalight kr30 Tim was using in this video (and their entire pto generator line) have a stated automatic voltage regulation within +/- 1% from 56 to 64 Hz.
If you set your tractor at the rpm for optimal pto speed (usually indicated on the tach) the unit will easily handle increased and decreased load changes.
I think the modern pto generators built by more reputable mfgs will definitely handle the job.
As for the tractor low oil, low oil pressure, low fuel, this would be more of an issue on older tractors, newer Travis with an ecu will derate/power down for the first 2. Out of fuel is not much of an issue for restart. The current L5P duramax restarts in less than 20 seconds after replacing fuel filter leaving the filter canister empty, all of the newer tractors I've worked with are easy to start, just power cycle the key a few times to reprise, and you are off and running
@c.carney1948 the 1 series is a great machine to learn on, very forgiving for a tractor.
@@oefveteran09I have a 1 series, it’s the smallest tractor I have ever been on, but it does what I want it to do. My friend has one also and ran his out of fuel and called to bring him some more. I thought man this is going to be a chore. I was wrong. Electric fuel pump primed it real easy. It is also the first hydrostatic tractor I have ever been on. Had to get used to the petal on the left not being a clutch.
Tim, Christy, you two do you! May god bless you in all your endeavors. Me and mine will be here for every video, even the ones that have no relevance.
P.S. Christy, you're running that grapple better than I could! You have experience with grapples, I'm happy to have tractor!
I liked your analysis of different solutions/options. Your suggestion of a second tractor is certainly a consideration for some folks, and does offer flexibility and utility. Nice work Christy and looks like you’ve mastered the grapple as well. Blessings.
You are overloading that cable and 50 amp plug! 50 amps on both legs only gives you 12 KW!
yep.
Yes, the regulator on the generator can control the voltage by changing the excitation of the field. However, RPM determines frequency, which is changing with the PTO RPM. Some devices are really picky about 60hz.
You are funny!! 2 tractors? Tell me how to get that by the girl in charge!!!!
I just did!
Nice set up with the PTO generator, convenient to have the interlock device for the existing panel instead of a separate panel with a manual transfer switch.
Cool setup! I doubt you'd really run it at the same level you are testing at today...but keep in mind at your peak load, you were nearly running 100A through a 50A rated connector.
Hope you are staying warm!
I hope all had a safe and happy new year. I am looking forward to see if a 1025 can run that generator. As you had said, it was very loud near the unit. That will draw a bit of attention to the tractor. How would we go about, stopping someone from stealing our running tractors?
As I recall it takes about 2 hp per kw of output.
Tim good job with the interlock device. Obviously like others stated you shouldn’t be going over 50amps with your setup. Couple questions for you.
What size breaker did you install in the panel? What size wire did you use to the breaker? What size cable/wire came with the generator? How does the cable connect to the generator?
I would like to know this as well. Looks like number 6 feeding gen breaker 👀
Thanks for the emphasis on the importance of the generator lockout/disconnect/interlock -- HUGE safety item.
Been using a 16kW PTO generator for about 3 years now on my 2038R. I have transfer switch up near the meter, our meter is about 150' from the house so it puts the noise a good bit further from the house. Can really only hear it if I am in a room at the front of the house. As for the needing the tractor while dealing with storm cleanup, well everyone is helping during the cleanup phase so no one really needs to be in the house and needing power. We actually had a recent storm that tested this for me and it worked fine, the storm knocked power out for several days and it dropped 6 very large trees across our driveway that I had to clear and needed the tractor to do it. Work for a few hours, take a break and power the house. Rinse and Repeat.
Other item with running a PTO is you need FUEL, and you need to conserve it. I do not run it at night cause we have wood stoves and do not need it for heat and i dont want that noise while sleeping. Climate is Maine so heat is always a concern but that is why we have wood stoves.
Biggest negative to PTO generator I see is it can not be left unattended for long, tractor only hold ~8 gal of fuel. So if you need power even if you are not home then it is not the option.
Overspeed warning is warning you because your 60hz frequency is not 60hz.. Faster you go the higher the frequency goes. You have to be VERY careful. Alot of electrical devices will fry if you go above 63hz or below 57hz. Frequency converters / regulators are VERY expensive.. So with that you have to ensure your at 60hz. Be VERY stringent on how far outside of 60hz you are.
It shows on your display. You can also purchase a "kill-a-watt" device that you can monitor from any wall outlet in your home while running off generator power.
Most devices will run off 90 volts up to 125vac without issue .
But not much tolerance if the frequency/hz...
Your running a bit fast Tim.. Set Your RPM's to 60hz on the Display.. 61 at no load.
The Voltage regulator only controls the Voltage..
I'm in Carteret County on the NC coast and have been contemplating upgrading my portable generator. I was wondering if my 1025R could be used to power the house with a PTO driven generator. Look forward to your next video.
The only issue is tractor governors are not built for generators. The power company frequency band is 59.98 - 60.02. your generator is running at 61+ and this can damage frequency sensitive equipment.
ALL these setup connections are confusing to me on WHICH to do, I think I will get a Generlink that mounts between the glass meter and it's base, such has the plug in on the bottom for generator cable, and the unit automatically turns on & off from the grid as it senses whatever, NO internal house wiring etc. necessary
Generlinks aren't allowed in all places. Sometimes its local code and sometimes its the utility company that doesn't wants a device attached to the meter.
105 amps on even just one of the legs, through a 50A inlet? Seems like it might not be the best idea. Hopefully the interlock breaker is the proper 50A, in which case, it can handle 105A for a minute or two then it will safely disconnect. Impressive amount of power being generated.
One word of caution with all of that running. You can see that you are exceeding the rating of your plug. I know typically that you wouldn't be running all of that at one time. But I just wanted to make sure you are aware. Overall, it was a very nice install. I have the same setup in my panel for a 20kw diesel generator that I have wired into my home. It is permanent install down here i. south Louisiana. We have hurricanes, so backup power is essential. Most of my family have a very similar setup as you wish the pto generators. I have always liked them and would love to have one some day as a means for portable power.
Couldn’t find a larger plug.
@TractorTimewithTim exactly I was going to hook up my sisters house up that way also. Maybe we need to find one that we could use. Please don't take it wrong. I understand exactly what you are dealing with. I love the fact that you created a good video on the complete setup.
Get two 50 amp plugs.
@@robbridges7810hmm.
You go Christi , cleaning up the place!!
I can never understand when i drive by one of the local farmers why he has a quarter million dollar tractor burning engine hours parked running the PTO to power al old $500 augur that could easily be running of a small gas motor. This unit reminds me of that setup - why would you simply not get a generator with a motor instead of putting wear and hours on a tractor where you have to consider engine hours as a loss of resale value.
Thanks for the Video!
Because the augers nowadays require 120hp or more.
Also, I don’t see many running augers with new tractors. Usually bigger older tractors…the old family favorites. My family uses Oliver 1950-T and Deere 4620.
@@TractorTimewithTim Thanks for the reply Sir.
I had no idea they had that kind of a power requirement!
Mind you, I was asking the neighbor if she had set up a new wireless access point, but no it was the rental Brandt augur.. that thing even has a WIFI access point built into it for some kind of management or tracking!
Goes to show how far behind the times I am with some of this newer equipment.
@@foonus406yea, the ‘standard’ in augers now is 13” which can unload a semi truck (1000bu) in 6-9 minutes.
With all due respect, as a generator installer, I can put an automatic system into your home that starts automatically for 15k or less. With the setup you have, you're well over 35k with the tractor, generator and electrical parts. Furthermore, you're limited to the 50A of that plug and inlet. You're far exceeding that with your testing. Not smart.
The power of Proverbs and an alternate generator. Never knew it was an option. Thanks for all the tips...and I think you made it clear to create the proper bypass. And thinking about it, I can justify having another tractor. Thanks.
How long will the electric tractor run it?
80+ amps through a 50amp rated plug/receptacle pair….what’s the size of the generator feed breaker that is interlocked? It was taped over.
The one thing I found out about any generator, is if they have a very low THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) that won't harm Computer controlled appliances, That was my biggest fear of having a power spike or low voltage, burning something up. I have a 15kw Winco Pto generator and only requires 30 pto hp for max output and doe's a great job and is electronics safe.
If anybody is considered doing this or even putting in a transfer switch. Now is the time to do it. The worst thing and I can say this with experience is knowing you've got a transfer switch sitting on your workbench just waiting to get installed and a giant ice storm rips through knocking your power out . And honestly just a basic knowledge is all you need to do it yourself. With that being said if you're not comfortable obviously hire somebody. But there is so much information out there even here on UA-cam that shows you how to do it it's easy to understand. One thing I would suggest to everybody is get a long enough cord so you can fairly conveniently locate your generator. Without having to fight through snow banks to get to it
if you had quick disconnect fittings on the coolant lines for the cab heater, those could be tied into the floor heating using a heat pump and setting up a garage right with a muffler exhaust. was told natural gas costs 5 times less then liquid fuel... so then that comes down to actual running costs. 10kw/hr/month electric/heat combined is a average when it is -60 outside... tho if your generator starts back feeding into the grid the time meter charges ya for it as it is monodirectional and the smaller braker trips when the bigger end comes back on creating a phase surge in the process.
Nice video Tim! I have a generac gas unit and works fine for the whole house. It’s an 8k unit. At some point I’ll want more but the wallet decides that. I’m curious how long you can run before you need to refill the tractor. Best wishes and Happy New Year!
I have a Generac as well. I converted mine to LP. Do you worry about your electric devises?
Nope. In fact, we pay attention to it the usage. Our most important items are the well pump, freezer refrigerators, furnace, and a few lights. We won’t use washer or dryer unless we need to not the oven. We could, but we just make sure other things aren’t being used. It’s a good little generator. I run it at least once a month for a good 1/2 hour.
@@troyweyerstrass7312 I'm sorry, I meant electronics, such as TVs and computers?
@@gtuttle4 same… no issues. My wife works from home and is all computerized. WiFi, computer, several monitors, tv, etc. No issues.
Great video tim i just had a interlock installed for my portable generator and had to use it last week lost power for 19 hours worked great .
Back feed or no back feed. I don’t know any electricians that work on anything without testing it first. Those that don’t. Aren’t around to talk about it. lol 😂
Strikes me that using a Tesla wall battery between the house and the utility company. Then hook the generator up to the battery
You seem like the kinda dude my dad would drink beer with. Love the work and the content.
I beg the differ on relability. While they may not be an apple to apple comparison to a new one. I do beliee some very old tractors can be as reliable as they were when they were new, and quite frankly last much longer than a new one.
How much fuel does the setup use? What happens to tractor temps under load with 8hrs run time? Do you have enough diesel on hand for 24 hrs of run time?
In my neck of the woods power outages are fairly common, sometimes several days long. Love that PTO gen, but no way I could listen to that thing roar for hours on end. Thanks for the vid I know I was one of the ones who kept asking about it!
I'd like to see an old 1066 run that with a 1000 rpm PTO and not have to rev so high.
I cannot wait until you release more these videos on the other tractors. Thank you for putting this video together really helpful information.
ho there interesting john
didn't you say that was a 50 amp inlet? and how many amps did you run through it?
You better off buying a nice Honda generator those PTO generators are not cheap.
Tim, that is a very nice unit to provide power. but where do you cross the line to having a complete engine and generator in one unit? The cost of adding an auction tractor of a proper size and with at least the minimum in reliability because you don't want Old Salty to give up the ghost at the wrong time. The Baumalight is a portable unit, so that advantage is good, but you can get almost that much power out of a complete generator that is portable too. Christy, you did a wonderful job with the chain saw and the grapple.
Yep. Lots of decisions.
But will you maintain 60hz frequency 13:07
Over all quite good, I’ve been an electrician for 34 years, and counting. I really like the manual add-on apparatus. Your panel doesn’t use half width breakers you would use QO tandem. Food for thought, balance your loads in the house better(so you draw as close to even as you can. That will be tedious. This way your generator, will be balanced. I’m not sure of your size of breaker or wire. I think, from my couch in New York, they’re 50 amp rated. So that will be your weak point. It appeared the one phase was much higher during the demo. Most breakers are designed to trip at 80% of breaker rating at continuous duty. The receptacle is called a flanged inlet. And your plug/ receptacle. Is called a California twist lock. Not sure why manufacturer gets California involved but that’s just what they call it. Like I said overall great job. You explained very well.
If I calculate correctly, the only risky spot in my circuit is the plug/receptacle. It is rated at 50 amps. Wire is big enough, breaker big enough, etc. I just haven’t found a cost effective 125amp plug/receptacle. Can you help?
@@TractorTimewithTim I think “ cam locks “ would be the best. But they’re not as clean of look. I really feel if you balanced your loads, and kept an eye on your “plug and cap”. It’s not going to melt at 51.5 amps. If you’re overloading for a real long time, it will be evident look for discoloration in the plastic. Overloading will just mean you’ll have to replace sooner. Wire is most important to be correct size, being in conduit you won’t notice an issue. And too small of a breaker, will give nuisance trips. Common sense. I’m not sure if you will ever have long term power issues. But during an emergency, just be reasonable( usage) . It’s obvious you’ve got a great generator. Your plan so far is great.
I recently purchased a used qr30. I have tested it up to about 11kw using my kubota 70hp. No sweat at all. Looking at buying an older 32hp Yanmar tractor with the 3-4speed pto’s.
Would like to be able to throttle down when I know power demands are low. Most of the time 6-8kw is all we need. So 15-18 pto hp would suffice.
…or get a 1000rpm PTO tractor …run at half throttle:-)
I love your videos with all your different deere machines.:) I dont know why but I have to say it over and over again....I really love it I guess.:)
Thanks 👍
Ending shenanigans are perfect!!! Haha
At the peak you hit 22.7kw which is right at 95 amps, you are going to melt that 50 amp plug if it is run like that very long. You need to go to a heavy blade style connector like what is used on a winch quick connector “Anderson style plug”. Also you should be more concerned about the hertz than the voltage, modern electronics need to be as close to 60 hertz as possible to keep from causing damage.
Can you give me a name or link to the style plug? I could not find higher amperage plug.
You could do single conductor “cam lock” connectors. They are cheaper but you’d have a little more labor making a panel to mount them on
I put a link to some but it keeps getting deleted? “Pin and Sleeve” is your huckleberry for this. Rated at 100amps
I keep trying to put a link in but it keeps disappearing right after I put it up.
You should remove the content to this video that describes the backfeed of your electrical utility service. You made a joke about shocking a utility worker. Do you realize a backfeed of 240 turns into 7200 volts on the street? It's life or death out there. Stick to talking about tractors!
Good grief! Maybe you should watch again and listen for context? The entire point of that segment was to AVOID this situation.
Unbelievable.
Great video, Tim, happy new year, it looks like you’re going to get a little cold up there. Where to study 57° for all next week which is in 70 but I’ll take it again happy new year Lee and Marcia..
I’m jealous! Wish we would have either SNOW or WARM!
In another 30 days we should be in the 70s if those gray sky’s are getting to you , come on down to where the 1860s civil War started. Front door is always open.
You may want to upgrade that plug to 100 amps
It will help if you rebalance your phase loading
I didn't even know they make pto generator
1000 hours is just 6 hours short of 6 weeks.
So the breaker that connect to the switch (where the generator comes in) is it a normal breaker? I don’t know much about electrical panels. Thank you
Yes
We had one to power our Dairy during outages and it was a 540 pto connection but we would use the 1000 Pto connection on the tractor and a spline adapter from 1000 to 540 to allow the tractor to idle at lower rpm consuming less fuel. Have to use the volt meter to ensure the tractor rpm is not to high or the voltage output of the generator is not to high.
Cool. This generator would help with the volt meter as it has all of that built in.
Tim,
Keep up the good work! From the comments I'm amazed at the number of keyboard lunatics that can't read or hear and proceed to dramatize a subject you covered in the video. As Will Rogers said "commen sense ain't that common".
Your brave putting 100amps at a couple points thru that number 6 wire in your breaker box
You’re brave, assuming wire size. (Incorrectly, I might add)
Do you have a clamp on amp meter? at 22kw at 240 volts you are at 91 amps if all the load is 240 volts. Your max continuous 240 load is only 9.6kw with your 50 amp plug. Just your geothermal alone in backup heat mode is about 45 amps. As a general rule electrical devices are rated for an 80 percent constant load. Plugs are a weak point in any system and loaded anywhere near rating the female end heats up taking the spring tension out of the plug resulting in more resistance, more heat, less tension and that cycle repeats till the inevitable failure and possible fire. I can't begin to count all the chard burnt remains of plugs I have replaced thru the years due to just that problem. Your only safe and code means of keeping what you have is to limit the generators output to 40 amps by fuses or breaker ahead of your plug. In your situation you need a connection means rated for what the generator will provide, that being 125 amps. My 60kw Cat portable has color coded Marinco 400 amp rated cam lock connectors on it and they are an affordable means of quick connect with a rating sufficient for the purpose. There is two sizes the smaller being 150 amp rated and the larger is 400 amp rated and those I have used even for locomotive jumper cables. At least you have a brick wall that receptacle is mounted on. If you need more power let me know,, I got a 75kw 3 phase PTO generator that will eventually be looking for a new home.
Great video. Don't you need a bigger, higher amperage connector going into the house. You have a 30kw generator but you actually can only put in ~11kw with the 50 A connector and I'm assuming a 50 A breaker. Seems like it would trip if you needed to use the emergency heat for a long time. Love your channel. Keep up the great work.
I couldn’t find a larger connector.
You were feeding the house through a 50 amp receptacle and presumably a 50 amp breaker. Why did the breaker not trip at the higher loads?
@@TractorTimewithTim From what I found when putting together my transfer switch and was looking for a 60A connector for my 16kW unit is they dont really make a panel mounted male 60A connector. The generator had a 14-60R so I made a cable with a 14-60P on the end to plug into the generator and the other end is hard wired to the transfer switch. Cable is just long enough to reach the generator where i park it. When not in use I have a hanger on the back of the meter stand for it. (meter, transfer switch not near house)
I have added a pigtail to my setup with the Anderson connectors that allows me to get ~100 A out of my 20Kw generator. It looks like your generator has the same ports on the back. Thanks again for spending all the time making useful videos.
@@CJIEngineering do they make large 4 pin anderson connectors? Never thought about do that, but also did not know they made big enough 4 pin ones. Bet that requires a good bit of force to connect/disconnect.
RPM controls cycle per second. In the USA it's 60 Cycle. If RPM drops cycle will drop which is not good. Commercial Stand Alone Gen Sets have a Special Electronic gov that controls engine RPM. I hope your tractor has good RPM control with loads.
I think you covered everything except the hp/pto hp on the tractor👍♥
Hmm…guess I thought folks would know. 3046r is 45 engine, 36-37 PTO.
If I did my math right, you whole house is wired for 50 amps max/ That is not very much power. I started typing BEFORE I heard "Geo Thermal". I had a large heat pump for part f the house, and a gas fired heater for the rest of the house. Plus water pump and a few lights. Good job on the wiring, and the video!!
that’s why after watching Jimmy Houston on his channel show his Jackery solar generator’s. Here’s where you gotta learn “juice” factors. With Jackery their models correspond with max items you can run. So when you shop make a list what’s gotta run. verses a day or more not needed. Yes they plugs like in your house. Usb to get the c usb 1,000 watt minimum. they have come out with their new design it tells you draw and how long it will last. Models now are their pro stow carry handles. but at the time i shopped the pros costed more. Yes now they have a big boy 30 amp unit plug. on wheels. The bigger the units the more panels to be set up hopefully the weather is bright. love my units. my mother is getting older so i bought her an electric recliner anniversary but my 1,000 tad bit under powered. so let’s look blue etti something not to break the bank so she can run her coffee pot or sewing machine get in or out of the chair. remember which unit and route you go what are you running. see owners manual on devices. match accordingly what i like about my option no gas or oil to fool with keep charged check six months status plug in top off. When you receive your units half charge plug in to 100%. the 1,000 unit of jackery has a blue light charging green done. and the larger units have a built in work led light. keep stored in fire proof bags things like c-pap machines are important electric blankets portable stoves lamps not every one has the money for a tractor set up refrigerators kids toys electronics night lights quiet just a quiet cooling fan. no jackery either is water proof jackery units keep out of direct sun light minus the solar panels 1,000 will run pellet grill for about two hours ten flash low warning charge me.
I see multiple issues. As mentioned by others the 50A plug/inlet is under rated. The generator does not appear to be intended for use in wet weather with open vents and exposed receptacles. Watching the frequency on the display, this unit isn't very stable. The cost from Baumalight for this unit is $8721.60 with the discount they offer. I have a customer with a PTO generator and we are quoting his install with a Generac automatic transfer switch with a slight modification to install a toggle switch to make it manually operable. We will run his connectoon for the pto generator out from the house and provide a box with the whip to plug in to the Anderson connector on the PTO generator. Should he later go with a permanent standby generator everything will be in place for it and the transfer switch will be set back to normal automatic operation. We would install a 26kw Generac for him today for about $11,000 but he would have to provide the propane tank.
Tim, nice set up. How long can you run the tractor? Does the PTO also have a continuous run time?
Will run as long as it has fuel. …and you can refill fuel while it is running..not dangerous with diesel.
We pulled our meter, sticks 1/4 copper plates in the lugs, and vice gripped #6 wire from there back to the generator. And yes, all of that meets national code.
When setting up our generator feed, our sparky installed a Mains/Off/Generator 3-way switch in the main board. Your solution does the same thing in essence. But, we only have 3kW!
It certainly could be a better use of $ if you have room for an extra tractor and the combined costs of tractor&pto gen. were not much more than the stand alone generator. Your previous statement about helping a neighbor/friend/family also is a plus over stand alone
Since you had the generator on a small trailer, putting a roof and insulated sidewalls on it would cut down on that noise, and you could move the whole works farther from the house(as far away as the cord allows) which would reduce noise also. I think the drone of the generator is far preferable to freezing, sweltering, and losing all your refrigerated&frozen foods.
Where I am, not even one tractor fits in my yard.😒 Still looking at getting the stand alone to run off nat. gas.
I know it would have cost a lot more but i would have been tempted to put the plug near the garage door on concrete so it is much easier to get the generator where you need it if there is a lot of snow. I still remember the blizzard of 1978 in NW Ohio. 10-15' snow drifts.
Safety nazies! Lol
Great information on gen power. I use what is called a suicide plug because both ends are male. It certainly is not the correct way of powering up the house but I'm always very careful and check everything twice before firing up the generator. Might justify a second tractor with a generator after all...🤔
I have always used the suicide plug before…but knew I couldn’t make a video using that approach….hence the one year delay before this video.
@@TractorTimewithTim Completely understand that. Good call! ⚡️⚡️
LOL "hence the one year delay" LOL@@TractorTimewithTim
@@sail72 well…it is true. I even said it in the video. I put it off due to the wiring work on the house.
Nice to see you guys cover these issues!
Rule of thumb is 2hp / kw
I literally just did this last weekend.
Found a beat up 5k with a Honda, fixed everything on it. About 80 bucks, maybe 100, to do the outlet, cord, and disconnect kit.
Tested running the whole house including my heat pump!
I like watching your videos and I like to read all the other comments other people have to say, and I like to see what implements you can get for a John Deere 1025r tractor.
I debated using my tractor as a generator option. Is the generator/tractor noise at a level where you could sleep through the night? I now have a 27KW NG @ 85DB that conveniently is on the other side of the house.
I'd be looking for a spare main breaker. I've lost count of how many times a whole panel had to be changed due to the main breaker not being able to be reset. A spare main @$250 is a whole lot cheaper than a whole new panel.
We have an interlock and its a great very inexpensive solution.
Thanks Tim. Nice work. And just so you know, we have a poultry farm with a 120kw and auto transfer switch and alarms on every house. It all works great until you need it😂.
Good video…..I’m about to add a home generator (used one) to my house. If the auto switch is too expensive for my setup, I may wind up using the same safety switch you have shown here.
I don’t mind going outside and switching it manually. Sure will beat hauling the heavy small generator and running extension cords for limited power.
Good point on second tractor too….I kick myself for selling my old yanmar when I got a newer model (newer to me) Kubota.
Tim, this question is not about this video. I have a 2018 1025R with many attachments, including Ibex TS52 Power harrow, 48" Phoenix Flail mower, box blade, backhoe, ballast box, 4' Wheel Harrow; Mulch Bucket; Std Dirt Bucket. Based on your experience, what would be the best way to sell these items (Marketplace? JD Forums? Craig's????). I'm asking your this question, because I trust you. We are moving overseas so can't bring these with me. Many Regards, Larry (California)
Probably Facebook marketplace.
Sell backhoe, loader and bucket with tractor. Sell the rest independently…my opinion. Price aggressively. Used demand (and prices) are dropping.
thanks for the great advise. I agree matching the Backhoe with the tractor and dirt bucket has more appeal. You helped me improve my decision. Thanks. Larry. @@TractorTimewithTim
Very interesting. Especially if considering having a second tractor for this purpose...how does the cost for a "regular" generator that would put out the same power, compare with buying the PTO generator...presuming you either have the other tractor already or would get a more used/cheaper tractor for that purpose?
After a lot of research and consideration I recently went with a NG Generac for 3 reasons. 1. The wife would never mess with a PTO solution if I am not around. 2. As I approach retirement age, not sure I want to mess with it either. 3. My tractor is not big enough to run more than 10kw. I guess it's up to you decide if you think the extra cost of a Generac is worth the convenience...and to clarify the Generac is only more $ because of the installation. If you have to pay electricians ... likely not much of a price difference between the two options. As far as operating costs go...diesel is likely the cheapest, followed by NG and propane a distant third. Most if not all air cooled home standby generators are NOT continuous duty rated, so if you are worried about a long term event (more than a couple days)...an air cooled generator is not for you. The PTO generator in this video could likely run for weeks continuously without too much worry.
Great setup for emergency power. I also use the Gen interlock switch on my panel. Installed it a couple years ago and only needed to use it once since then. I have the B&S 5500 watt gen for backup power. Thanks for the Vid.
I like the way you think great job with your work take care of yourself be independent you got the right idea. THANKS
Like the idea. However, for the cost of that particular unit, you could pay for a dedicated LP or diesel whole house unit probably with the switchover built in (and quieter). The nice thing about the PTO one is it's portable.