Tractor Repair: 830 case starter problem, two different places, diesel tractor

Question
I have an 830 case diesel tractor model 831 that I have had the starter rebuilt twice at two different places,but they have both quit working on me in less then six months time.  The repair manual I have says the tractor should have two six volt batteries. The tractor came to me with one twelve volt battery. Could this be the cause of my starter problem. What difference would this make if they both give you 12 volts?

Answer
Hello,

  2 six volt batteries in series will give you 12 volts, but will also give you more amperage than one 12 volt battery.  On a diesel, 2 batteries would definitely be better.  On a gas engine, 2 batteries aren't needed.  2 batteries will give better starting especially in cold weather, but whether having one battery would shorten the life of the starter, I don't know.  It might if the starter is being overheated because it's working too hard only getting power from one battery. You would get shorter cranking times if you had 2 batteries because a diesel starts better the faster it cranks over.  That would save some wear and tear on the starter.  Make sure that it is the correct starter for the machine if you haven't already done so.  Someone may have put the wrong one on before you got the tractor.