Combine Engine Powers His Tractor

Combine Engine Powers His Tractor ENGINES 29-3-29 Tom Van Pelt boosted power from 90 to 160 hp in his 4020 Deere tractor. He did it by replacing the original engine with a 466 cu. in. engine from a 7720 Deere combine. "I wanted to use an engine from a 4430, but all that was available at the salvage yard was the 7720 engine," says Van Pelt. "As it turned out, I didn't have to lengthen the frame with the combine engine." Van Pelt did have to install a new bushing between the water pump and the fan blade. That put it ahead of the engine without hitting the water pump. He also replaced the oil pan with an M&W aluminum pan for better cooling. Additional cooling with the bigger engine was also aided by replacing the standard radiator with one that had extra fins. "The biggest challenge was the dual remotes," recalls Van Pelt. "The hydraulic block is in front of the firewall on both engines, but with the dual remotes on the combine engine, there was a conflict between the hydraulic remotes and the manifold. Also, the exhaust manifold was a little higher on the 466." To make room, he machined down the end plate cap on the valve. He then tapped a hole in the remote instead of putting a cap on it, and it fit fine. "We've put about 1,000 hours on the tractor with this engine," says Van Pelt. "On the dynameter, it measures about 160 hp, but we are careful not to put all the power through the wheels. We try to use it on jobs where we can split the power between the pto and the wheels, mostly running a 3 by 3-ft. square baler." Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Tom Van Pelt, 2786 Lower Elkton Rd., Columbiana, Ohio 44408 (ph 330 482-4882).

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