Does using the kit continuously all day cause problems?
The kits produce short bursts of movement; they are designed for intermittent use such as raising and lowering at the headland. The LFT54 contains an embedded control board with protection using current and position sensors, while the LFT20 has no board, processor or sensor. Not holding the command pressed unnecessarily prevents the DC motor from heating up and from drawing needless current.
On these kits the motor runs only at the moment a command is given; once the lever reaches the desired position the movement ends. In other words, the total running time during the day is measured not by the hours that pass but by the number of commands you give. Raising and lowering a few times a minute at the headland is normal use.
The points that set the limit:
- Heating: Holding the DC motor in a stalled, straining state (keeping the command pressed while the mechanism is jammed) is the fastest way to heat it up. Release the command once the movement finishes.
- Protection difference: The LFT54 has protection with current and position sensors; under abnormal load the system protects itself. The LFT20 has no such protection, so user discipline matters more.
- Mechanical resistance: A stiff or rusty mechanism runs the motor at its limit on every command. Lubrication and a clean cable route directly affect service life.
If you plan heavy, all-day use, the LFT54 is the more suitable choice with its 15 kg pulling force, more powerful dynamic DC motor and 36-month warranty; the LFT20 is sold outside warranty coverage.
Full topic: Converting a tractor hydraulic lever to electronic control