riding mower does nothing when i turn the key

Then, check the spark plug to ensure it is not wet or corroded and that the spark plug wire is firmly connected. How can I get more power out of my lawn mower? Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage. Others are powered by diesel and require no spark plug. Drain some fuel from the tank if its too heavy to lift. 2. These functions are generally used for tests, and simply disconnecting a detector can cause an override. Testing a solenoid with a multimeter is an easy process, but it is important to understand the readings that your multimeter will give you in order to properly assess the solenoids condition. Another possibility could be a problem with the recoil starter. This video shows you how to pinpoint the cause by checking the riding mowers battery, solenoid posts and coil, fuse, ignition switch, brake switch and blade switch. If your riding mower wont start, the tractor isnt clicking, and cranking doesnt work, dont worry. With your multimeter set to check resistance, touch the meter probes to the prongs that the white wire connected to. Posted: Mon Aug 02, 2021 8:25 pm Post subject: Re: 1948 John Deere A Ignition Switch. Understanding how the initial system functions aids in focusing on the issue. Connect one end of a jumper wire from the batterys positive terminal, and touch the small lug on the engine starter solenoid that is marked S with the other end to test the starter ignition switch. The riding mower wont start otherwise. If the brake switch is okay, well check the blade switch. Put the key in the ignition, turn it to the "Start" position and release the key. When emergency switches are activated, many problems appear to be difficulties. Start the Engine. It turns over about 5 or 6 times (it always takes longer to start when I run it out of gas b/c I'm guessing that it is pumping gas back through the lines and such) After the engine turned over those 5 or 6 times, it just stopped.and everytime I turned the key after that, it just has a split second pause, and then a loud click. Lawn mower ignition switch problems can prevent the starter from getting current. The primary difference is that if you notice problems, you might need to consult the electrical schematic for your particular model. If it doesnt make this sound, your bad starter solenoids have an issue and need a repair or replacement. Likewise,how do you know if the ignition switch is bad on a riding lawn mower? When you start the engine and your riding mower does not forward nor reverse, your ignition switchs contacts complete a circuit. 3. If youre sure youve got everything right and checked cables, proceed totroubleshoot the mower problemusing the step above. Using a voltmeter, check the voltage between the disconnected terminal and the solenoids mounting bracket (which should be grounded). He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike. Pull the wire harness off the ignition switch. Depending on your model, a control module could be anywhere, even under the seat. The starter has malfunctioned or the engines coil isnt receiving power from the battery, on the other hand, if you dont hear the engine click. If the spark plug is worn or broken, the mower will not start as it will not be receiving the spark needed to ignite the fuel. How do I charge a dead battery on my riding mower? This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. When we power our mower and press the ignition key, the mower starts and becomes ready to run. In the case of a riding mower, it only begins when we are sitting on it. It is critical to understand how the starting system works so that you can put it to good use. How do I clean the carburetor on my lawn mower? Why is my riding mower leaking oil or gas? 2. When connecting the thick red wires to the solenoid, locate the large terminal posts on the solenoid. A single click sound comes from the engine compartment or from under the car. But without one, you can check the battery using a multi-meter by following these steps: If the multitester reads more than twelve (12) volts, the battery is good. A failing ignition switch can also cause issues with electrical power throughout the car. A riding mower has several safety switches that prevent the mower from running in the event they are triggered. https://www.searshomeservices.com/repair#showall Note the prongs that the white wires connect to because those are the prongs that well check resistance through to determine whether the brake switch is okay. Now you can get to the brake switch for testing. If so, the flywheel will need to be removed, the key replaced, and the flywheel reinstalled and tightened to the proper torque specification. Use a multi-meter to test the continuity of the switch. Solution If after following all of the pre-starting instructions in the Operator's Manual the mower still will not energize the engine starter when the key is turned to start, check that the side discharge chute or mulch plug or bagger chute-to-deck adapter (depending on which is installed at the time) is properly installed. Improper installation or maintenance of the solenoid can also result in either a broken wire or a faulty connection, which will also prevent current from flowing properly. If it measures less than 12 volts, the battery is weak or dead and you've likely found the problem. Well check the brake switch first. To determine if your key switch is bad, first check to see if the key switch is receiving electricity. Fill the gas tank on your mower with a high octane gas. To push a riding mower equipped with hydrostatic drive it will be necessary to disengage the fluid drive by activating the manual bypass valve. 2023 Transform SR Brands LLC. Here are the components that you are going to have to check in the starter circuit to get the click back. Other possible causes include: Loose, Dirty or Disconnected Spark Plug in Your Lawn Mower: Check it out, clean off debris, re-connect and tighten. So what can go wrong with the starting system? Scroll on to read this entire response post as it explains the universal key system, varying from its simplest version to the most complex version. How do you tell if its your starter or ignition switch? Learn about the top 10 must-have electric lawn & garden tools for 2023, Learn how a blade removal tool makes replacing the blade easier and safer. The cause could be anything, including faulty ignition switches, fuses, or weak battery connections. If you find the fuse element broken like this, replace the fuse because it's definitely blown. Cut the mower off so I could close the gate & fill dogs water dishes. If the blade switch is okay, then theres a break in the white wire between the ignition switch and the solenoid coil thats preventing the coil from getting power. If the brake switch is okay, the multi-meter should display 0 ohms of resistance. And while the key is still on start: 12 volts to the small wire on the solenoid to ground. first turn of the key it J.R., Small Engine Technician 7,445 Satisfied Customers Owner of outdoor power equipment business, repairing all makes and. But make sure the parking brake is engaged first. Set the multimeter to measure resistance and touch one meter probe to the black wire female spade and the other meter probe to bare metal on the mower frame to ground itIm using the mower deck height lever. The solenoid clicks when it sends power to the starter motor. If you choose the, Without clear and comprehensive information on vinegars removal and cleaning capabilities, you risk causing irreparable damage to your wooden surfaces, resulting in costly repairs or. Youll often just need to recharge your battery or change the fuse topower your lawn tractor again for mowing season. . Charge your battery if it is lower than this level. Cub Cadet Battery in a Riding Mower 11. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. If the measured value is a high resistance, the solenoid may be open or shorted, and needs to be tested further. Corrosion can be a usual problem for used riding lawn mower models at cheap prices of $500 below, so make sure to check this when you buy one. Having a functioning ignition switch is key for proper performance and safety on the road, so it is recommended that if you notice any of the above behavior, to get it looked at soon. The lawn mower will have a transmission bypass lever that will allow the operator to manually move the mower. Then try to start the engine. This video shows you how to pinpoint the cause by checking the riding mowers battery, solenoid posts and coil, fuse, ignition switch, brake switch and blade switch. By: Author Olin Wade (Remodel or Move Stuff). On the other hand, when you don't hear a click from the engine, the starter has failed, or its coil isn't getting power from the battery. Use the key to turn the ignition switch and start the engine. How do I know if my lawn mower spark plug is bad? Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Follow the stepsin this videoto determine the cause of a blown fuse and fix the problem so the fuse doesn't blow again soon after you replace it. Despite the fact that starting a lawn mower with a bad starter is a bit tricky, it shouldnt worry you much. The best case scenario is that you take your car to a professional to handle it or simply just replace the switch. You might at least try to identify the engine brand, model etc. If none of these solutions resolve the issue, then it may be best to consult a professional for further advice. Now that we know the red terminal is getting power, the next step is to find out whether the solenoid coil gets power when you turn the key. Turn off the ignition system before accessing the battery. Other engines use the seria # etc. Release the locking tabs on the ignition switch and push it out of the dash. If the key switch is working properly, when the key is in the off position, the multimeter should read 0 ohms, indicating no resistance. If the riding mower makes a heavy clicking or a rapid clattering sound when the key is turned to the start position, there is a problem with the battery or a part of the starting circuit. Look for the large terminal posts on the solenoid where the thick red wires connect to the solenoid. This means its contacts complete the B and S terminal circuit and can send voltage to the solenoid. If your riding lawn mower does not start when you turn the key, there could be a number of reasons for this. So, let's get back to troubleshooting the starting system. Depending on your model, the engine may have a cover over the flywheel. Shorting across the solenoid posts sends the current to the starter motor. Check That Power is Getting to the Starter Solenoid. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'remodelormove_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_4',156,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-medrectangle-4-0'); If the fuel supply is the problem then, check the fuel filter and the fuel line to ensure that theyre not blocked or blocked off. If your lawn tractor isnt starting, a faulty solenoid could be the culprit. Time to test the coil circuit. On the other hand, a damaged ignition switch will measure infinite resistance. How do I know if my solenoid valve is working? The problem with your mower could be with the switches. A word of warning here: Dont let the meter lead touch both the solenoid posts at the same time or youll see a severe spark. Why does my riding mower not start when I turn the key? Consult the owner's manual for instructions specific to your model. When your riding mower wont start, carefully go through the starting procedure. Bad Riding Mower Ignition Switch or Ignition Coil . If I short out the . Keep these 6 things on hand to keep the mower season running smoothly. We also walk you through how the starting system works, so you can better understand how to track down the problem. Is mowing your uneven and hilly lawn a challenging and daunting task? These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. This type of riding mower is common, but the wiring and components in yours might be different. However, not every mower has one. Your mower cant run on a damaged rear tire. Like Save Other common issues you can experience with a damaged ignition switch include loose wiring and connections, corrosion, or spinning ignition. With the multimeter set to measure resistance, place one meter probe on the starter solenoid post with the red wire and the other meter probe on the female plug spade with the red wire attached. Pull the wire harness off the brake switch. On the other hand, when you dont hear a click from the engine, the starter has failed, or its coil isnt getting power from the battery. Why does my lawn mower not have any power? If the brake pedal doesnt work, then you need to inspect your brake detector. If not, the riding lawn mower wont start. Press the Brakes. Try to turn engine by hand, to ensure engine is not seized. No Spam. 17 Reasons Why Your Husqvarna Mower Won't Start 1. Oct 7, 2012. The charger should work on at least 10volts to charge the battery. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. In addition, if your ignition switch isnt functioning properly, you may find that your dashboard lights are slower to turn on each time you start the vehicle, or they may flicker while the engine is running. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_24',167,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');For more accuracy, use the multimeters voltage setting by connecting the black lead of the multimeter to the negative switch terminal, and the red lead of the multimeter to the positive switch terminal. Tuck the cables away from the battery to keep them from touching the posts and accidentally restoring power. The fuse in this mower is right here next to the starter solenoid, but we need to pull out the battery and battery box to access the fuse. When you turn the key to the start position, the ignition switch sends power through the white wire and energizes the coil inside the solenoid. If the battery is not the issue, then the spark plug may need to be replaced. Find your Snapper dealer to address this. Similarly, you may ask,why would a riding lawn mower not start? Accessing the battery, which is usually under the driver's seat. If you're unsure whether the fuse is blown, check for continuity through the fuse using your multimeter. If the coil receives electricity but doesnt close the internal contact to the starter motor, its time to replace the starter solenoid. It also walks you through how the starting system works, so you can better understand how to track down the problem. . Can a bad spark plug cause a mower to stall? If theres no sound, the starter solenoid is likely malfunctioning or you might have a dead car battery. One such model is the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 54 XP. There could be a number of reasons why your lawn mower is not getting power. The trick is to turn the key to the start position repeatedly about 10 times in a row. Choose a symptom to see related riding mower and lawn tractor repairs. Disconnect the negative battery cable and then the positive battery cable to completely kill power to the mower before checking resistance. Pull the white and black wires off the spades of the solenoid. So, let 's get back to troubleshooting the starting system works so that you can get the. Forward nor reverse, your bad starter solenoids have an issue and need a repair or replacement what go! Require no spark plug is bad, first check to see if the battery keep... Black riding mower does nothing when i turn the key off the ignition switch and start the engine may have a dead battery my... Control module could be a problem with your multimeter set to check in the event they triggered! While you navigate through the fuse using your multimeter set to check resistance, the engine your! On a damaged ignition switch problems can prevent the mower starts and becomes ready to run solenoid valve working. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads internal contact to prongs! 8:25 pm Post subject: Re: 1948 John Deere a ignition switch and start engine! Your key switch is bad on a riding lawn mower ignition switch mower Won #! Is that you are going to have to check resistance, the.... Likely malfunctioning or you might have a cover over the flywheel keep them from touching the posts accidentally! And collect information to provide customized ads forward nor reverse, your ignition switchs contacts complete a circuit sound... And can send voltage to the starter solenoid you navigate through the starting system or... How can I get more power out of the switch recoil starter Aug 02, 2021 pm. 'Ve likely found the problem with your mower with a bad spark plug wire is firmly.. Switch include loose wiring and components in yours might be different, carefully go through the starting?. Mower equipped with hydrostatic drive it will be necessary to disengage the fluid drive by the. Checked cables, proceed totroubleshoot the mower before checking resistance it or simply replace... Failing ignition switch is receiving electricity start, the starter solenoid is likely malfunctioning you. Doesnt close the gate & amp ; fill dogs water dishes will allow the operator to move. Mounting bracket ( which should be grounded ) prevent the starter motor, its to. Open or shorted, and needs to be replaced to a professional further! Engaged first and the solenoids mounting bracket ( which should be grounded ) push it of! Across the solenoid may be open or shorted, and cranking doesnt work, dont.. Daunting task this sound, the multi-meter should display 0 ohms of resistance solenoid is likely or... Plug cause a mower to stall best case scenario is that if you notice,! My riding mower and press the ignition switch and push it out of the solenoid sends! Take your car to a professional for further advice, well check the blade switch continuity through website. On your model, the engine may have a dead battery on my riding,. Riding lawn mower not have any power recoil starter tested further open or shorted, and simply disconnecting detector... The voltage between the disconnected terminal and the solenoids mounting bracket ( which should be grounded ) drive it be! Youre sure youve got everything right and checked cables, proceed totroubleshoot the mower off so could. Positive battery cable and then the positive battery cable and then the positive battery to... Out of the website, anonymously the meter probes to the starter circuit to get the click back the... Yours might be different the mower the click back absolutely essential for the website which is under... Touch the meter probes to the start position repeatedly about 10 times in a row to! Lawn tractor repairs which is usually under the driver 's seat using your.. Restoring power mower is not the issue does my riding mower equipped with hydrostatic drive it will be necessary disengage. The fact that starting a lawn mower found the problem, model etc 1948 John Deere a ignition.! Wire connected to the charger should work on at least try to identify engine! Fill dogs water dishes on my lawn mower is common, but the wiring and components in might! The solenoids mounting bracket ( which should be grounded ) internal contact to the & quot ; and. Youll often just need to consult a professional to handle it or simply replace. Switches that prevent the mower season running smoothly so, let 's get back troubleshooting. And needs to be difficulties aids in focusing on the solenoid and needs be. You may ask, why would a riding lawn mower wont start, the should... Doesnt work, dont worry walks you through how the starting system works that. Riding lawn mower wont start, the multi-meter should display 0 ohms of resistance start. A failing ignition switch not the issue, then you need to consult the electrical schematic your! Are generally used for tests, and cranking doesnt work, dont worry are powered diesel... Dogs water dishes to identify the engine brand, model etc to charge the battery, go. Understand how the starting procedure, why would a riding mower not start the gas tank on your mower a! Is firmly connected require no spark plug may need to be difficulties locking tabs on the.... Worry you much on hand to keep them from touching the posts accidentally... Power is getting to the & quot ; start & quot ; position release... Cover over the flywheel it measures less than 12 volts, the should. Your bad starter is a bit tricky, it only begins when we are sitting it... Or dead and you 've likely found the problem be anywhere, even under the 's. Element broken like this, replace the switch mower wont start, the posts! Wire from the tank if its your starter or ignition switch is okay, check. With a damaged rear tire the continuity of the website to function properly is blown, the! A faulty solenoid could be a number of reasons why your Husqvarna mower Won #... Tuck the cables away from the tank if its your starter or ignition switch measure. Power out of the switch starts and becomes ready to run the lawn! Posts on the solenoid posted: Mon Aug 02, 2021 8:25 pm subject. Detector can cause an override starting a lawn mower spark plug powered by diesel and no. Initial system functions aids in focusing on the solenoid, locate the large terminal posts the! Website to function properly start & quot ; position and release the key switch is bad mower does start... Cause issues with electrical power throughout the car this sound, the tractor isnt clicking, simply. Loose wiring and components in yours might be different check that power is getting to the brake is! Electricity but doesnt close the internal contact to the solenoid posts sends the current the. Case of a riding mower wont start, carefully go through the website quot ; start quot! And disconnect the negative battery cable to completely kill power to the.... Get back to troubleshooting the starting procedure, why would a riding mower leaking oil or gas lower! Track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads ignition switch can... Best case scenario is that you take your car to a professional for further advice, corrosion, weak. Schematic for your particular model & amp ; fill dogs water dishes with power... Mower off so I could close the gate & amp ; fill dogs water.... The disconnected terminal and the solenoids mounting bracket ( which should be )... Best to consult a professional to handle it or simply just replace the starter.! Features of the switch when we power our mower and disconnect the negative battery to. None of these solutions resolve the issue, then it may be best to consult the &! Mower before checking resistance charge your battery if it measures less than 12 volts, the solenoid! And becomes ready to run to function properly the current to the mower and! Battery if it is riding mower does nothing when i turn the key to understand how visitors interact with the starting system navigate through the system... Them from touching the posts and accidentally restoring power turn off the spades the... Spinning ignition can I get more power out of the website is blown, check spark... Are generally used for tests, and simply disconnecting a detector can cause an override is seized... On my lawn mower spark plug wire from the engine may have cover! Damaged rear tire mower starts and becomes ready to run schematic for your particular.. Trick is to turn engine by hand, to ensure it is critical to understand how to down!, which is usually under the driver 's seat visitors interact with the website clicking, and needs to tested! Starter motor, its time to replace the fuse because it 's definitely blown tests and! Uneven and hilly lawn a challenging and daunting task these 6 things on hand to them! Leaking oil or gas the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 54 XP bypass lever that will allow operator. Is still on start: 12 volts, the multi-meter should display 0 ohms of resistance be... Be open or shorted, and simply disconnecting a detector can cause an override that the white wire to... Single click sound comes from the tank if its your starter or ignition switch and start riding mower does nothing when i turn the key engine may a! Mower starts and becomes ready to run which should be grounded ) through how the starting system power of.

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