Does anyone know why my 460D timberjack skidder ignition switch is over heating?
Need more details. Is it hot all the time or just when it’s running? Is one of the wires going to it hot? What happens when it gets hot?
It is getting hot while running and it is the battery wire that is getting hot. It melts the insulation off.
What is your alternator putting out for voltage? how about the batteries, one or two batteries, 12 or 24V, do they keep a charge for a week. Actually, none of that matters much, the alternator is connected directly to the battery usually. You need to find what's drawing too much amperage that goes through the switch. Maybe a fuse that's too big on a circuit that's overloaded, or new accessories added?
I’ll check the circuit and fuses and get back with you. Thank you
Not too many accessories in a skidder, are there? Air conditioning? I wonder if the alternator is failing? like drawing too much excitation current causing your heating issues. Another long shot possibility, are there any solenoids that aren't functioning, but are still wired up? they'll draw more current failing than working sometimes. Like hydraulic, brake, transmission control solenoids.
It has an air conditioning in it
Key switch contacts could be damaged and creating the resistance . The AC fan motor cicuit is a common resistance point especially the relay contacts.
Check the ground strap. If it is loose or has paint/dirt under it, there would be greater resistance, causing heat.