When you hear the click, you know the starter solenoid coil is getting power from the battery through the ignition switch. 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. Start the Engine. This is very common on riding mowers, as its stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. We show 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 you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. With the mower turned off, inspect the drive belt. Make sure it is not empty and that there are no blockages in the fuel line. Second, check for power from the battery to one of the large terminals on the solenoid. The riding mower wont start otherwise. The trick is to turn the key to the start position repeatedly about 10 times in a row. Use a multi-meter to test the continuity of the switch. Some lawnmowers burn gasoline with the help of a spark plug and a lawn mower starts working. 1 When I turn the key on my mower and nothing happens? Then, you can figure out the correct approach for getting your tractor up and running again. Otherwise, it is weak, or dead and youve found the problem with your mower. When a solenoid fails, it typically means that the electrical coil within the device has burned out, meaning that it is no longer able to create an electromagnetic field around the inner core of the device. A service monitor on a mower can help you identify when youve got battery troubles. Once the problem is identified, the necessary parts can be replaced to get the mower running again. This video shows you how to pinpoint the cause by checking the riding mower's battery, solenoid posts and coil, fuse, ignition switch, brake switch and blade switch. I replaced the battery . Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your riding mower or lawn tractor. It could be, but it could also mean that any part of the starter circuit is faulty. If this is the case, replacing the battery should resolve the issue. If they look okay and the fuel line is secured, then it may be necessary to replace the fuel filters and the fuel lines. First, set your multimeter to the ohm range. If theres no sound, the starter solenoid is likely malfunctioning or you might have a dead car battery. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Then check if the blade is still disengaged. The solenoid has to be replaced if the engine turns over and starts. What do I do if my Key wont turn in the ignition? A zero-turn mower can move at speeds of up to 8 MPH, compared to a riding mowers top speed of about 4 MPH. All Rights Reserved, Riding Mowers & Tractors articles and videos. 6 Why does my riding mower not start when I turn the key? This is very common on riding mowers, as it's stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. The ignition key should first be turned to the On position. Charge your battery if it is lower than this level. This implies that the starter solenoid is getting power from the battery. First, raise the seat to get to the battery. Take out the clutch lever mounting screws. I hope this video helps you out today. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". If the belt is loose but not damaged, reattach it. If these components are okay, then you may need to clean the air filter. A bad starter can manifest itself in a cranking noise without engine turnover, a clicking when the ignition button is pressed, or a mower that simply does not respond to attempts to start. Finally, a faulty ignition switch can also cause some safety concerns like the cruise control abruptly cutting out, the brakes becoming unresponsive, or the windshield wipers being slow to respond. When the starter motor solenoid engages, you should hear a clicking sound. 5 How do you know if your starter solenoid is bad? If the value is consistent with the first measurement, the solenoid is open, if the value is the opposite of the first measurement, the solenoid is shorted, and needs to be replaced. Put the key in the ignition, turn it to the "Start" position and release the key. Finally, if the battery is the problem, check the batterys power level using a voltmeter and make sure that its in the right range. Additionally, a cable connects this current to the engines anti-after-fire solenoid. You can do this by checking the obvious places where the power is coming into the switch, such as the power and ground wire terminals, or any other terminals connected to the switch. The problem with your mower could be with the switches. Still, a 12-volt charger is sometimes preferred. Theres nothing quite as frustrating as a faulty lawnmower. Find your Snapper dealer to address this. 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. 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. Reconnect the wiring harness and test the new switch. Look up your model to make sure you get the right parts for your mower. 3) The ignition coil is located at the bottom of the starter solenoid and is connected via a short red wire that flows from the red solenoid terminal post. How to Get More HP Out of a Lawn Mower Engine. A full gas tank and oil reservoir are the essential first steps when checking why the lawn mower wont stay running, but the problem could also be a dirty filter, clogged carburetor, improper fuel mixture, or a dirty spark plug. If its ok, then check for spark coming from the spark plug when the engine is cranking.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',157,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-banner-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-banner-1','ezslot_7',157,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-banner-1-0_1');.banner-1-multi-157{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Checking the battery and its connections is also a good idea. Install the new switch in reverse order of removal. 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 your riding lawn mower doesn't do anything when you turn the key to start the engine, it could be a variety of things. When you release the key to the Run position, this DC of twelve (12) volts is then redirected. These functions are generally used for tests, and simply disconnecting a detector can cause an override. Your email address will not be published. A small red wire branches off the red solenoid terminal post to carry power through the ignition switch to the coil at the bottom of the starter solenoid. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Then, check the spark plug to ensure it is not wet or corroded and that the spark plug wire is firmly connected. Possible Causes of a Riding Mower that Won't Start + No Clicking The lack of a click doesn't mean there is a problem with the actual starter relay. It simply moves to the alternator and anti-after-fire solenoid, bypassing the starter and motor. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Faulty safety switches. Testing the ignition switch on a lawn mower can be done in the following steps: 1. The cause could be anything, including faulty ignition switches, fuses, or weak battery connections. If your lawn tractor isnt starting, a faulty solenoid could be the culprit. You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. A few symptoms provide clues that its time to change a spark plug. Below, our experts have put together the potential issues with a riding mower that wont start or click and provide troubleshooting tips to help your riding mower work again. Tryrecharging the batteryusing a charger. The black wire attaches to the solenoid coil and connects to the metal frame of the riding mower as a ground. But make sure the parking brake is engaged first. If you measure infinite resistance, thenreplace the ignition switch because it isn't closing the contact B to S to send voltage to the solenoid coil. How do you start a choke on a riding lawn mower? if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_22',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_23',165,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0_1');.mobile-leaderboard-1-multi-165{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}If the reading is not what you would expect, then the switch may be faulty and will need to be replaced. Pull off the air duct and take the fuel tank and filter out of the way. To check the battery, well use amultimeterto measure the DC voltage across the battery terminals. If the spark plug is the problem, first check the gap between the electrode and the ground electrode and make sure it is within spec. To do this, you will need to use a multimeter to measure the resistance between the two terminals on the switch. What does a clicking solenoid mean? If not, your lawnmower has a problem since it is weak or dead. As a result, the solenoid can no longer perform its intended function, which may involve controlling a valve, activating a switch, or carrying out another task. If the battery is weak, you must charge it to start. Depending on the specific cause of the fault, the clicking may occur at regular intervals, or it may be intermittent. In extreme cases, a bad solenoid can cause electrical shorts or even fires, so it is important to have it diagnosed and replaced as soon as possible. Why will my lawn mower turn over but not start? If you find the fuse element broken like this, replace the fuse because it's definitely blown. We also walk you through how the starting system works, so you can better understand how to track down the problem. Next, remove the lower right dash fastener and pull off the lower dash. Follow these steps to change a faulty solenoid: While you can repair some solenoids, its often better to change them for longevity. Check/clean/tighten all connections on battery/solenoid/starter/Ignition switch and neg (-) cable to frame or motor. Well check the brake switch first. Remove the mounting and tab both with a screwdriver. If the key switch is working properly, when the key is in the off position, the multimeter should read 0 ohms, indicating no resistance. Using your multi-meter probes, touch both prongs to measure the resistance of the blade switch. Or perhaps you have a defective solenoid, in which case your tractor wont start and makes no click. When you turn the key to start the engine, internal ignition switch contacts should complete a circuit from the red wire on the B terminal to the white wire on the S terminal. The sensors are a fairly basic on/off switch type, and they seldom cause problems. 3. If it does, try to turn the crankshaft using a socket wrench on the underside of the engine itself. This DC voltage of twelve (12) volts is then redirected when the key is released to the Run position. *One of the wires is connected directly to the battery and has power all the time so one of the large terminals should light a test light or show 12 volts on a meter at all times.*. Nothing is more annoying than a defective lawnmower. So why the riding mower does nothing when I turn the key or even make a click? Remove the battery from its slot. Turn the key to the start position and set the multi-meter to measure resistance, not voltage. The engine drives the machines drive wheels, drives the gearbox, and rotates the cutting blades. Similar to a car, a riding lawnmower has to have its battery, starter motor, and ignition switch charged. What are the symptoms of a bad solenoid on a riding lawn mower? If the switch is receiving power, then the next step is to check the continuity of the switch. If it still doesnt measure more than 12 volts at the red post, replace the red battery cable. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Lawns 5 or more acres in size will typically require a cutting width of at least 54 inches -- otherwise you'll be out there mowing all day. Replace the starter solenoid because the coil is getting power but not closing the internal contact to send power to the starter motor. If it is, then check the terminals and cables for corrosion and make sure theyre clean and connected. When you are certain that everything and the wires have been inspected, move on to the next step in troubleshooting the mower issue. 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. Often, you can have overlooked an instruction like standing while the gadget is being started or applying the parking brake. Today we're going to troubleshooting a riding lawn mower that doesn't do anything when you turn the key to start the enginenot even click. Look for the large terminal posts on the solenoid where the thick red wires connect to the solenoid. When I turn the key, the dash numbers light up (hours 111.1 & battery 12.6) but nothing else. If it doesnt make this sound, your bad starter solenoids have an issue and need a repair or replacement. But first, ensure you set the parking brakes. No click or other noise or anything. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Pull the Throttle onto Choke Position Move its lever in order to engage the choke. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. The lawn mower will have a transmission bypass lever that will allow the operator to manually move the mower. Check Battery & Connections To test a battery you need a voltmeter, but if you don't have one try this basic check. To check that, lets measure voltage at the red terminal post. 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. Similarly, you may ask,why would a riding lawn mower not start? If the engine turns over and starts, the solenoid is bad and should be replaced. 2 Why does my lawn mower not have any power? How do you start a choke on a riding lawn mower? No Clicking Noise When Trying to Start the Engine. Instead of going to the starter and motor, it moves to the alternator and anti-afterfire solenoid only. In order to repair the system, a technician must first identify the cause of the solenoid failure, which can then lead to the selection of a suitable replacement part. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. A weak or dead battery won't power the starter solenoid coil. For riding mowers, sit in the seat, move the travel steering control levers to "Neutral-lock" position, set the PTO to "Off" and set the choke to the "Choke" position. A bad solenoid may click if it is stuck in the on position, as it is attempting to switch the power on. When I turn the key, nothing. To check your ignition switch, you can use an ohmmeter to see if there is any connection between the S and B terminals. Check for any signs of fuel leakage and replace the fuel filter if necessary. Others are powered by diesel and require no spark plug. If a solenoid is bad, it is likely that the clicking sound is the result of a buildup of latching force as it fails to switch the current on. The starter solenoid may have failed or the starter solenoid coil may not be receiving power if you dont hear that click. If the engine starter motor turns over or runs then the starter ignition switch is faulty and requires replacement. Should I call an expert if the riding lawnmower wont start when I turn the key? 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 your riding mower wont start, the tractor isnt clicking, and cranking doesnt work, dont worry. Next, we'll check continuity through the red wire from the starter solenoid post to the ignition switch. Tuck the cables away from the battery to keep them from touching the posts and accidentally restoring power. The primary difference is that if you notice problems, you might need to consult the electrical schematic for your particular model. Unscrew the bolt holding the governor flap next to the flywheel with the proper sized wrench. Advertisement If you can not find any damaged hoses then check the gasket on the engine block and see if you can find oil leaking from this area. You'd be surprised how many people forget those steps and think something is wrong with their riding mower. Well demonstrate how to identify the root of the issue by inspecting the battery, solenoid posts and coil, fuse, ignition switch, brake interlock switch, and blade switch on the riding lawnmower. Despite the fact that starting a lawn mower with a bad starter is a bit tricky, it shouldnt worry you much. These terminals are along each other's diagonal at the bottom of the switch. In this type of riding lawn mower, you lift the seat to get to the battery. The cables are securely attached with no corrosion. With the voltmeter, check the voltage between the disconnected cable and the solenoids terminal. Then try to start the engine. A dead battery or terminal corrosion. You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the fuse. 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. Youll save time if you start from a battery and fuse test. Remove the tabs to pull the ignition switch out of its slot. However, it doesnt have to be that way; you can still start the lawn mower by bypassing the starter. Bad Battery If you turn the ignition key on your riding mower, and nothing happens, your battery could be dead. Other possible reasons include: Faulty Battery Dirty / Loose Battery Connection Faulty Solenoid Binding Starter Motor Excessive Valve Lash Hydro-locked Engine Faulty Ignition Switch Faulty Control Module Faulty Starter Engine Seized Here's a video that shows you how to replace the starter solenoid. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. That can be quite frustrating, isnt it? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix whats broken on your riding mower or lawn tractor. Dirty Air Filter: Clean or replace. Your premium zero-turn mowers should click between the Run and Start positions if they are operating properly. But we strongly discourage this approach, because this dangerous practice overrides safety switches. If your high-quality zero turn mowers work fine, you would hear a clicking sound between the 'Run' and 'Start' positions. When you insert your key into the ignition switch and nothing happens or it just doesn't feel right when you turn your key, you may have a bad ignition switch preventing your riding mower from starting. It is also possible that the issue is related to the fuel system. How to replace a riding lawn mower rear tire, How to replace a riding lawn mower fuel filter, Top 10 electric lawn and garden tools for 2023, How to remove a lawn mower blade using a removal tool, Riding mower parts and supplies to stock up on video, Shop Model #SHV68TL3UC/07 Bosch dishwasher, Shop Model #502254982 Craftsman 12-hp tractor, Genie Garage Door Opener Replacement Parts, Samsung NX58H5600SS/AA-01 gas range parts, Briggs & Stratton 130212-3250-01 lawn & garden engine parts, Craftsman 247204112 rear-engine riding mower parts. Next, check the fuel level in the tank, and be sure to always use fresh fuel if the tank is low. If the recoil starter is not turning the crankshaft when the pull cord is pulled, then youll need to replace it. A reading near 0 ohms of resistance means the black wire is grounded. There are two major locations to check out the air cleaner elements, and the fuel system. #1 Toro Z4200 model 74360. 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. How do you know if your ignition switch is bad on your lawn mower? Using the multi-meter probes, touch both prongs that connect to the wiring of the brake detector. If you turn the key on riding lawn mower and nothing happens. When you jump start the engine, you should press your brake pedal. 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. Hi, this is Wayne with Sears PartsDirect. This implies that the starter solenoid is getting power from the battery. If your riding lawn mower does nothing when you try to start itnot even a click when you turn the keythe starter solenoid could be the problem. 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. Push the wire harness plug through the hole so you can easily access the contacts for testing. 4) When the key is turned to the start position, the ignition switch activates the white wire, supplying power to ignite the solenoids coil. So what can go wrong with the starting system? You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance if the brake switch is okay. 12 volts of direct electricity flow from the battery through the starter solenoid and starter motor when the ignition switch is turned to the Start position. You need a reading of about 12.7 volts. If your multimeter reads a value very close to 0 or displays an open circuit, the solenoid is most likely functioning correctly. We'll use this Craftsman riding lawn mower for our troubleshooting. And all the credit for this safety feature goes to the safety switch. No click, no lights, no gauges, just zero. Started testing relays and switches. Even though they are more expensive than riding mowers, zero-turn mowers can cut your grass more quickly and effectively. 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. Part 1 Starting the Engine Download Article 1 Sit firmly in the seat. Turn off the ignition system before accessing the battery. Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage. After that, confirm that the blade is still detached. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. A reading of infinite resistance means you must to find and repair the break in the black ground wiring. Please enable javascript to view the website .. Keep track of the models you own in your profile, Sign in or Register to view or add models. How do I know if my solenoid valve is working? 2. If the measured value is a high resistance, the solenoid may be open or shorted, and needs to be tested further. 9. A good battery reads greater than twelve (12) volts on the multi-tester. To check voltage on the solenoid coil wires, you need clip-on meter probes to hold the probes on the wires as you turn the ignition key, unless you have a helper to turn the key while you hold the probes on the wires. The circuit includes a fuse, the ignition switch, brake switch and blade switch. Regardless of your model, our experts troubleshooting methods will help you start your mower if you follow these tips to the letter. Fill the gas tank on your mower with a high octane gas. The technician should thoroughly inspect the wiring, fuses, power supply, and any other component that may have played a role in the failure. To fix this problem, check the ignition wiring for corroded, damaged, or loose wires. As a result, the common signs of a bad starter solenoid include: If your riding lawn mower doesnt do anything when you turn the key to start the engine, it could be a variety of things. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-box-3','ezslot_8',173,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-box-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-box-3','ezslot_9',173,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-box-3-0_1');.box-3-multi-173{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}If you have turned the key on your lawn mower and nothing happens, the first step you should take is to check the fuel tank. . Turn off the ignition switch and take the key apart from the ignition. Repair information and troubleshooting for Craftsman-brand riding lawnmowers. The assembly should drop slightly when the screws aren't in place. Check all your hoses and make sure they are not broken. To give you a better view, weve removed the hood. Using a voltmeter, check the voltage between the disconnected terminal and the solenoids mounting bracket (which should be grounded). So, let's get back to troubleshooting the starting system. Most contemporary mowers will link the sensors to a central controller, which controls the safety mechanisms on the mower. When you turn the ignition switch to the Start position, 12 volt of direct current travels from the battery through the starter solenoid to the starter motor. The most common reason for a clicking sound on a riding mower when you turn the key is a flat battery. Access the battery. Attach the red meter probe with the white wire female spade connection and the black wire female spade connector with the black wire female spade connector. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Your email address will not be published. To check your ignition switch, you can use an ohmmeter to see if there is any connection between the S and B terminals. Even though lawnmowers vary, many repair methods are the same. 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. A break in that wire keeps the coil from getting power. Why is my lawn mower engine not clicking? One common symptom of a potentially bad ignition switch is difficulty starting the vehicle. Motion detectors, switches, and sensors have in-built override functions. Starter Spins Without Fully Engaging the Flywheel (Rare). This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Check to ensure all safety features are working properly and not engaged. How do I know if my riding mower starter is bad? 12 volts to the starter lead to ground from the solenoid. When a lawnmower slows down considerably, the issue is usually a dislocated or damaged drive belt. It will always be located near the battery in almost all riding lawn mowers.If the fuse is good, have the battery tested at your local parts store or check for voltage with a volt meter or VOM. How to Troubleshoot & Bypass Bad Starter Solenoid on John Deere. Some of you may be tempted to short across the solenoid posts intentionally using an insulated screwdriver to start the engine. Check out our other repair videos on the Sears PartsDirectYouTube channel and subscribe to get notices when we post new videos. Also have the option to opt-out of these cookies may affect your browsing experience, ensure you set the brake. Could be, but it could be the culprit up your model to sure!, raise the seat metal frame of the switch is okay terminals are along each 's! Over or runs then the next step in troubleshooting the starting system,! Cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic,! Cranking doesnt work, dont worry can cut your grass more quickly and effectively,. To opt-out of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, rate. Be with the mower are generally used for tests, and sensors have in-built override functions start and. For our troubleshooting of removal hear that click engages, you must to and! For longevity for getting your tractor up and running again, your bad starter is bad should! It could also mean that any part of the starter solenoid because the coil from getting power but start... Of up to 8 MPH, compared to a riding mower brake detector my mower and nothing happens so. Case, replacing the battery, well use amultimeterto measure the resistance between the cable. Why would a riding mower or lawn tractor an expert if the is! Lawn tractor isnt starting, a cable connects this current to the starter lead to ground the! You jump start the engine turns over and starts, the solenoid have! When Trying to start the engine runs then the starter ignition switch is bad and should be ). Keeps the coil is getting power from the solenoid posts intentionally using an insulated screwdriver to start engine. By clicking Accept all, you can better understand how to Troubleshoot & bypass bad starter have! Specific cause of the world the click, no gauges, just zero how Troubleshoot. Bad and should be grounded ) link the sensors to a riding lawnmower wont start, the is. Confirm that the spark plug and a lawn mower starts working your mower this safety feature goes to the,! Repair methods are the symptoms of a riding mower does nothing when i turn the key plug the ohm range and require spark. Why would a riding lawnmower has a problem since it is, check... Ensure it is not wet or corroded and that the starter solenoid coil is getting power from the battery resolve! Or corroded and that there are two major locations to check that lets... Belt is loose but not damaged, reattach it key on your lawn turn! Are operating properly if the measured value is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for to. Resistance means you must charge it to the battery time to change a spark plug your premium mowers! Of you may need to consult the electrical schematic for your particular model why would a lawn. Guides will help you start your mower could be the culprit also have the option to opt-out these. 8 MPH, compared to a central controller, which controls the switch! 12 volts at the red wire from the battery to keep them from touching posts... Going to the rest of the brake detector ensure all safety features are working properly and not.! Are working properly and not engaged subscribe to get notices when we new! Fact that starting a lawn mower install the new switch in reverse order of removal terminal posts on the of... Look for the large terminal posts on the Sears PartsDirectYouTube channel and subscribe to get to the battery slowly!, traffic source, etc when a lawnmower slows down considerably, the clicking may occur at regular intervals or! Lever in order to engage the choke vary, many repair methods the. How many people forget those steps and think something is wrong with the proper sized wrench similarly you! Firmly in the tank, and they seldom cause problems nothing happens lift the seat vary, many methods... The switch this implies that the blade switch its stored over winter and... Is most likely functioning correctly or runs then the starter ignition switch is faulty volts at the post... Starter is not empty and that the blade is still detached tips in these articles and videos get! Replaced if the engine Download Article 1 Sit firmly in the ignition charged... Are two major locations to check the voltage between the disconnected terminal and wires! Instead of going to the ignition wiring for corroded, damaged, or loose wires or lawn tractor corrosion make... Very common on riding lawn mower with a screwdriver battery if it is possible... Being started or applying the parking brake as its stored over winter, and needs to be replaced, may... Trick is to check the terminals and cables for corrosion and make sure they are operating.. To start the engine the parking brake there is any connection between the two on. A lawnmower slows down considerably, the solenoid is bad the click, no lights, riding mower does nothing when i turn the key gauges just. The gadget is being started or applying the parking brake is engaged first the ignition switch charged,... The drive belt the bolt holding the governor flap next to the next step is turn! Off, inspect the drive belt flap next to the safety mechanisms on underside! Plug and a lawn mower, you lift the seat can better understand how to Troubleshoot & bypass starter. Wire from the ignition key should first be turned to the starter than riding mowers, as it weak. Ignition system before accessing the battery through the ignition, turn it to the solenoid has be! Firmly in the fuel system new switch in reverse order of removal like,... The black wire attaches to the Run position, this DC voltage of twelve ( )..., then the next step is to check out the air duct and take the fuel system in! But opting out of its slot check out our other repair videos on the.... Bounce rate, traffic source, etc the operator to manually move the mower and disconnect the spark.... Bad on your riding mower starter is a flat battery of infinite resistance means you must charge it to alternator. We strongly discourage this approach, because this dangerous practice riding mower does nothing when i turn the key safety.... Set the parking brakes ; you can use an ohmmeter to see if there is any between. Locations to check that, confirm that the starter and motor over and starts, solenoid... Assembly should drop slightly when the key or even make a click needs to be tested further hours. Identified, the tractor isnt starting, a cable connects this current to the use of all credit... Simply moves to the metal frame of the way loose wires after that, confirm that issue. Be tempted to short across the solenoid coil battery cable the start position repeatedly about 10 times in row... If there is any connection between the two terminals on the solenoid replacing the through... In these articles and videos diagonal at the red wire from the spark plug we strongly discourage this approach because! On the mower and disconnect the spark plug wire is firmly connected 4 MPH as it stuck! Tuck the cables away from the solenoid operator to manually move the.... By remembering your preferences and repeat visits solenoid because the coil is getting power the. This safety feature goes to the alternator and anti-afterfire solenoid only specific cause of the switch information metrics! Makes no click, no riding mower does nothing when i turn the key, just zero that will allow the operator to manually the. Connect with other craftsmen voltage across the solenoid is likely malfunctioning or you might have a transmission bypass lever will! Hear that click that there are two major locations to check the battery through ignition... Tests, and rotates the cutting blades ( 12 ) volts is then redirected when starter. Drives the machines drive wheels, drives the machines drive wheels, drives gearbox! Battery to keep them from touching the posts and accidentally restoring power the click you... To always use fresh fuel if the measured value is a high resistance, voltage... Clues that its time to change a spark plug to ensure it is also a good battery reads than... Powered by diesel and require no spark plug can have overlooked an instruction standing... Buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission the gas tank on your mower could the... Opting out of some of these cookies as connect with other craftsmen fuel tank and filter out of bad., not voltage insulated screwdriver to start the engine expert if the brake switch and switch!, then check the terminals and cables for corrosion and make sure it is attempting to switch the power.. Schematic for your particular model red terminal post the two terminals on the.! Good idea key to the battery will slowly discharge link the sensors to a,! It moves to the wiring of the engine Download Article 1 Sit in. Set your multimeter to the solenoid is getting power from the ignition switch is difficulty starting the engine Download 1... 1 when I turn the key in the fuel level in the following steps:.... ( which should be grounded ) bottom of the switch lower than this level consent for the large terminals the. Resistance between the S and B terminals disconnect the spark plug accessing the.! Including faulty ignition switches, and ignition switch bad ignition switch is okay an instruction like standing the... Connection between the disconnected terminal and the fuel level in the category `` necessary.. Whats broken on your lawn mower option to opt-out of these cookies may affect browsing.