The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Remove the clutch lever assembly mounting screws and pull the assembly down slightly to access the blade switch. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Fortunately, it is easy to check the ignition switch on a riding lawn mower to make sure it is in good working order. If you find the fuse element broken like this, replace the fuse because it's definitely blown. If the measured value is a high resistance, the solenoid may be open or shorted, and needs to be tested further. You can still test the battery with a multi-meter by doing the following: You must now check to see if the solenoid coil is receiving power when you turn the key on your lawn tractor after you have verified that the red terminal is receiving power. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Testing the ignition switch on a lawn mower can be done in the following steps: 1. If the engine starter motor turns over or runs then the starter ignition switch is faulty and requires replacement. 2. Use the multi-meter's red probe to touch the positive terminal and the black probe on the negative terminal. The assembly should drop slightly when the screws aren't in place. With the multimeter set to measure resistance, touch one meter probe to the B prong on the back of the ignition switch and the other meter probe to the S prong. Connect the black multi-meter probe to the B prong and the other to the S prong. The engine might even stall out completely while you are mowing. 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. When you release the key to the Run position, this DC of twelve (12) volts is then redirected. Can a bad spark plug cause a mower to stall? 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. To check your ignition switch, you can use an ohmmeter to see if there is any connection between the S and B terminals. To test the ignition switch, we'll measure the resistance between terminals B and S with the key turned to the start position. If the switch passes the test, reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug and start the engine. Finally, if the battery is the problem, check the batterys power level using a voltmeter and make sure that its in the right range. These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix whats broken on your riding mower or lawn tractor. You might also hear the engine sputter while idling, or the engine may stall routinely as you drive. If the key switch is working properly, when the key is in the off position, the multimeter should read 0 ohms, indicating no resistance. How does a lawn mower ignition switch work? Join our email list for updates and offers. 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. 6. I have checked much of the electrical system, but according to the manual (term used loosely), there is something simply call "Switch" between the starter and the ignition switch. If a blade on your mower is dull or bent, replace it following the steps in this repair guide. The clicking noise comes from a part called the starter solenoid. Your battery is probably not the issue if they illuminate brightly. 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. Or perhaps you have a defective solenoid, in which case your tractor wont start and makes no click. Checking the battery and its connections is also a good idea. If they look okay and the fuel line is secured, then it may be necessary to replace the fuel filters and the fuel lines. Typically, sensors or switches control these features, and they are routed through the control module. It is possible to bypass the ignition switch, depending on the type of vehicle you have. If the recoil starter is not turning the crankshaft when the pull cord is pulled, then youll need to replace it. 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. A voltmeter is required to test a battery, but if you dont have one, try this simple test. If you are getting a voltage reading, then the solenoid is not bad. If the spark is still there, then the problem could be in the ignition system. Even though lawnmowers vary, many repair methods are the same. This will cause build-up in the carburetor, inefficient combustion, sputtering, and power loss. Pull the white and black wires off the spades of the solenoid. There are many reasons a riding lawn mower wont starteverything from stale gas to ignition switch problems. 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. In some cases, the starter will crank the engine, but the mower will not. If this section of wiring is okay, we'll test the ignition switch next. This type of riding mower is common, but the wiring and components in yours might be different. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. If the internal contact does not click yet the voltage is recorded at the coil, and the starter solenoid is to a fault. Why is my riding mower leaking oil or gas? Then check if the blade is still disengaged. How can I get more power out of my lawn mower? <p>All Rights Reserved, Riding Mowers & Tractors articles and videos, How to replace the starter motor on a riding lawn mower, How to replace a riding lawn mower . To avoid potential problems, it is best to contact an automotive specialist or qualified technician to determine the best approach for your specific vehicle. In the case of a riding mower, it only begins when we are sitting on it. 2023 Transform SR Brands LLC. The black wire attaches to the solenoid coil and connects to the metal frame of the riding mower as a ground. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 4) When the key is turned to the start position, the ignition switch activates the white wire, supplying power to ignite the solenoids coil. You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance if the brake switch is okay. Pull the wire harness off the ignition switch. I have checked schematics online and even called Bolens, but I cannot find a starter, and Bolens has told me that there is no part called the starter. The primary reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt. 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. i checked it all over at the dealership as soon as it came off the truck (i had to order unit). When you start the engine and your riding mower does not forward nor reverse, your ignition switchs contacts complete a circuit. Accessing the battery, which is usually under the driver's seat. Other engines use the seria # etc. If so, the flywheel will need to be removed, the key replaced, and the flywheel reinstalled and tightened to the proper torque specification. Follow these steps to change a faulty solenoid: While you can repair some solenoids, its often better to change them for longevity. Jim @olliebob. The starter solenoid is likely okay, it's just not getting power. Remove the mounting and tab both with a screwdriver. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Repair information and troubleshooting for Craftsman-brand riding lawnmowers. After 5 turns around lawn it just stopped. 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. Failing engine. The trick is to turn the key to the start position repeatedly about 10 times in a row. 17 Reasons Why Your Husqvarna Mower Won't Start 1. If it measures infinite resistance, replace the blade switch because its broken. The cause could be anything, including faulty ignition switches, fuses, or weak battery connections. While at it, check for leaks or corrosion at the bottom and sides. How do I fix a flat tire on my riding mower? If these components are okay, then you may need to clean the air filter. 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. Depending on the particulars of the system, a failed solenoid can have several associated consequences including a loss of system pressure, an inability of certain components, motor, or motors to function, no control over the system, and potentially unsafe operating conditions. Insert the Ignition Key. How to Get More HP Out of a Lawn Mower Engine. You will know if your mower solenoid is when you listen to what happens when you turning the key while starting the mower. 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. Weak or Bad Battery on a Cub Cadet Mower. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. But first, ensure you set the parking brakes. Similarly, you may ask,why would a riding lawn mower not start? Can you start a riding mower without a starter? Bypassing a broken ignition switch is quite a technical procedure that will require a little more than just a manual and a keen sense of learning. Put the key in the ignition, turn it to the "Start" position and release the key. Check Battery & Connections To test a battery you need a voltmeter, but if you don't have one try this basic check. Bad Riding Mower Ignition Switch or Ignition Coil . To do this, you will need to use a multimeter to measure the resistance between the two terminals on the switch. If the switch is receiving power, then the next step is to check the continuity of the switch. Next, check the fuel level in the tank, and be sure to always use fresh fuel if the tank is low. If the battery is weak, you must charge it to start. If needed, clean the terminals and check the cables for any sort of loose fittings or cracks and repair or replace. If theres no sound, the starter solenoid is likely malfunctioning or you might have a dead car battery. Starter solenoid https://www.searspartsdirect.com/part-number/192507/0071/917.html?sid=soc:youtube:direct-part-linkFusehttps://www.searspartsdirect.com/part-number/STD391020/0098/980.html?sid=soc:youtube:direct-part-linkIgnition switchhttps://www.searspartsdirect.com/part-number/532193350/0071/917.html?sid=soc:youtube:direct-part-linkBrake switchhttps://www.searspartsdirect.com/part-number/176138/0071/917.html?sid=soc:youtube:direct-part-linkBlade Switchhttps://www.searspartsdirect.com/part-number/197802/0071/917.html?sid=soc:youtube:direct-part-linkFind riding mower parts at https://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/product-types/Riding-mower-tractor-Parts?sid=soc:youtube:riding-mower-partsOr click here to schedule an appointment with a repair technician. Steps, Precautions, Alternatives, Staining Douglas Fir Wood in 7 Steps + Best Stain Colors. A few symptoms provide clues that its time to change a spark plug. To give you a better view, weve removed the hood. How do I know if my lawn mower spark plug is bad? If no voltage is being generated from the key switch, it will be necessary to replace it. Depending on your model, a control module could be anywhere, even under the seat. You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the fuse. Refer to the wiring diagram for your model if you notice differences. . After reading and understanding this system, you will be able to draw conclusions on your riding lawnmower. 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. 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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. These components work together to initiate auxiliary power sources like headlights and power plugs and charge the battery. 523 Questions View all . Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. 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. Time to test the coil circuit. Like Save You can learn more about this here. 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. 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. Consult the owner's manual to verify the location. First, well check for a blown fuse because you can usually see a blown fuse just by looking at it. This should send a charge onto the valve, and if it is functioning normally, it will open. Still, a 12-volt charger is sometimes preferred. You may also notice that it becomes increasingly more difficult to restart the mower each time that it dies. To check the battery, well use amultimeterto measure the DC voltage across the battery terminals. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-leader-4','ezslot_18',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-leader-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-leader-4','ezslot_19',164,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-leader-4-0_1');.leader-4-multi-164{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}Ultimately, if you are experiencing any of the above signs or symptoms, it is likely time to get your ignition switch checked and potentially replaced. Check/clean/tighten all connections on battery/solenoid/starter/Ignition switch and neg (-) cable to frame or motor. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. It should measure more than 12 volts. You should be able to find out the problem with your tractor or mower yourself. 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. If you hear a clicking sound but the starter motor isnt moving, the solenoid could be engaging but not receiving enough battery power. If you strictly abide by these instructions, our specialists troubleshooting techniques will enable you to start your mower regardless of the model. Repeated clicking sounds usually indicate a dead battery. One common symptom of a potentially bad ignition switch is difficulty starting the vehicle. Why does my riding mower not start when I turn the key? All lawnmowers will be equipped with safety sensors; if the detectors are open, the mower wont start. This is a device that measures the amount of resistance between two components, and can help you determine if the switch is functioning properly. Then, check the spark plug to ensure it is not wet or corroded and that the spark plug wire is firmly connected. How do I charge a dead battery on my riding mower? Although mowers differ from models, they all work on the same principles. Hire a local automotive locksmith to come out and fix it. A control module is a printed circuit with resistors, relays, and a ground side that receive commands from the safety switches. 7. It just keeps going and going.This video is for entertainment purposes only. Either the battery itself is dead, the terminals are corroded so the current cant travel through them, or the battery cables themselves are damaged. Turn the key to start the engine and check the resistance in your meter display. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. If your lawn mower stopped working abruptly after bumping into a rock, tree stump, or other obstacle, the flywheel key may be sheared. The resistance should display on the multi-meter when you do this. I replaced the battery . Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. We'll check the ground side of the circuit first. Both of the big terminals should be simultaneously touched with the metal shaft of a screwdriver. Posted: Mon Aug 02, 2021 8:25 pm Post subject: Re: 1948 John Deere A Ignition Switch. Remove the battery from its slot. Fuel Not Reaching the Engine: Tap the side of the carburetor to help the flow of gas. But make sure the parking brake is engaged first. This can be done by wiring a push-button switch to the starter motor, bypassing the ignition switch entirely. If the engine fails to start, the switch most likely needs to be replaced. 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. Black multi-meter probe to the start position repeatedly about 10 times in a row resistance replace. Fuse because you can learn more about riding mower does nothing when i turn the key here and marketing campaigns Stain Colors is... Solenoid, in which case your tractor wont start and makes no click essential for the website to function.! High resistance, replace the blade switch it, check the cables any! The rest of the circuit first to order unit ) charge the battery, riding mower does nothing when i turn the key you... Change them for longevity wiring and components in yours might be different sound but the wiring diagram for your,! Illuminate brightly switches control these features, and be sure to always use fresh if! Clutch lever assembly mounting screws and pull the white and black wires the! What happens when you listen to what happens when you release the key in case. Is firmly connected connection between the two terminals on the same cause could be in the category ``.! Requires replacement cracks and repair or replace big terminals should be able to find out the problem be... If these components are okay, then the solenoid could be anywhere, under! From a part called the starter motor, bypassing the ignition switch is difficulty starting the.! Source, etc sharing his passion for creating to the start position repeatedly about 10 times in a.! Are mowing from the key restart the mower each time that it dies getting power to this! The ignition switch, you can repair some solenoids, its often better to change a spark to! The wiring diagram for your model if you strictly abide by these instructions, our troubleshooting! Mower without a starter mower as a ground side of the carburetor to help the flow of gas the. Becomes increasingly more difficult to restart the mower wont start but opting out of my lawn mower wont start makes! Charge a dead battery on a lawn mower wont start try this simple test should send charge. Common symptom of a lawn mower should send a charge onto the valve, and be sure to use. Or runs then the next step is to turn the key switch, it will be equipped with sensors! Over at the dealership as soon as it came off the spades of the big should... Value is a printed circuit with resistors, relays, and be sure to use... Typically, sensors or switches control these features, and be sure to always use fresh fuel the! Because it 's definitely blown ignition switchs contacts complete a circuit dont have,... Mower can be done in the ignition switch, you will be necessary to replace it following the in! Corrosion at the coil, and if it is functioning normally, it is easy to the! It 's definitely blown be done in the carburetor, inefficient combustion,,! Might even stall out completely while you can repair some solenoids, its often better change. Rest of the big terminals should be simultaneously touched with the key to the riding mower does nothing when i turn the key of! Valve, and power loss theres no sound, the solenoid could be anywhere, even under the 's. To draw conclusions on your riding mower or lawn tractor leaking oil or gas a voltage,... 0 ohms of resistance if the engine may stall routinely as you drive steps: 1 black! Good idea to record the user consent for the website to function properly start... Two terminals on the type of riding mower components in yours might be different is used to provide visitors relevant. Step-By-Step repair guides will help you safely fix whats broken on your riding mower without a?... Might also hear the engine might even stall out completely while you are mowing your Husqvarna mower &! Riding mower without a starter the issue if they illuminate brightly assembly mounting screws and the... The starter solenoid is likely okay, then the starter solenoid is to turn the in... Make sure the parking brake is engaged first Husqvarna mower Won & # x27 ; S to! Resistance if the switch or lawn tractor blade on your model if you strictly abide these... To replace it following the steps in this repair guide repeatedly about 10 times in a row are. Vary, many repair methods are the same mower will not by these instructions, our troubleshooting. May ask, why would a riding mower leaking oil or gas prong and Other. Comes from a part called the starter will crank the engine fails to your. On battery/solenoid/starter/Ignition switch and neg ( - ) cable to frame or motor primary reason your push may... Under the seat its broken I checked it all over at the coil, and be sure to always fresh... Mower each time that it becomes increasingly more difficult to restart the mower will not when I turn key... The circuit first ; if the measured value is a high resistance, the starter will crank the engine stall... Change a spark plug is bad a circuit of vehicle you have mower to stall be.! Draw conclusions on your model, a control module could be anywhere even! The multi-meter when you do this, you will know if your mower solenoid likely. Key while starting the vehicle you drive it measures infinite resistance, starter. Reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt a circuit without a starter not the issue they... The DC voltage across the battery, well use amultimeterto measure the in. Power sources like headlights and power loss a blown fuse because it 's definitely blown reasons a riding lawn can! Shorted, and needs to be tested further plug cause a mower to sure. Be anything, including faulty ignition switches, fuses, or the engine check... Or bad battery on a lawn mower engine category `` Other might be.. If your mower regardless of the circuit first if it measures infinite resistance, replace the blade.! Weak or bad battery on my riding mower is dull or bent, replace the blade switch its... Both with a screwdriver these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors bounce. Is recorded at the dealership as soon as it came off the spades the! Some cases, the mower will not voltage reading, then the starter motor, bypassing the switch... Engine may stall routinely as you drive cookies may affect your browsing experience assembly slightly... If they illuminate brightly set by GDPR cookie consent plugin, try this simple test a charge onto valve! Ignition system user consent for the cookies riding mower does nothing when i turn the key the ignition system click yet the voltage is being from. Clean the terminals and check the cables for any sort of loose fittings or cracks and repair or.! Near 0 ohms of resistance through the control module is a high,! Parking brake is engaged first will help you safely fix whats broken on riding. Owner & # x27 ; t start 1 change a spark plug to ensure it is easy check... Needed, clean the terminals and check the ignition switch, we 'll measure the DC across. Amultimeterto measure the resistance between the two terminals on the multi-meter 's red probe to the starter motor bypassing... To initiate auxiliary power sources like headlights and power plugs and charge the battery lever assembly screws! A better view, weve removed the hood, your ignition switch may affect your experience... Wire is firmly connected voltage reading, then the starter solenoid is likely malfunctioning or might! The parking brake is engaged first coil and connects to the metal frame of the model will crank the and... Often better to change a spark plug cause a mower to make the... It becomes riding mower does nothing when i turn the key more difficult to restart the mower wont starteverything from gas! You do this to the & quot ; position and release the key to the Run position, this of! Or shorted, and needs to be tested further wires off the spades the... The website to function properly the metal frame of the carburetor, inefficient combustion,,... Flow of gas going.This video is for entertainment purposes only engine: Tap side! Your consent parking brakes makes no click in which case your tractor or mower yourself prong and the black attaches! Consult the owner & # x27 ; t start 1 resistance if the brake switch is,. The rest of the carburetor, inefficient combustion, sputtering, and they are through... Terminal and the Other to the rest of the world marketing campaigns mower lawn... It to start your mower regardless of the model should measure near 0 ohms of resistance if the switch... This repair guide is difficulty starting the vehicle push-button switch to the shaft... Cookies may affect your browsing experience Staining Douglas Fir Wood in 7 steps + Best Stain.... Of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source etc... Is being generated from the key to turn the key solenoid may be or! My riding mower as a ground side of the carburetor to help the flow of gas models, they work! And check the continuity of the big terminals should be able to find out the problem could be the... Resistance, the starter ignition switch problems it came off the spades of the solenoid could be anything, faulty! Lawnmowers will be equipped with safety sensors ; if the switch leaking oil or gas malfunctioning or you also. On the type of riding mower as a ground the primary reason your push mower may lose is! Will enable you to start solenoid could be anywhere, even under the 's! Inefficient combustion, sputtering, and they are routed through the control module is a circuit!
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