riding mower does nothing when i turn the key

Part 1 Starting the Engine Download Article 1 Sit firmly in the seat. Connect the black multi-meter probe to the B prong and the other to the S prong. The sensors are a fairly basic on/off switch type, and they seldom cause problems. Turn the ignition key to the start position, note the voltage reading on the meter display and then turn the ignition key off. 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. 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. A failing ignition switch can also cause issues with electrical power throughout the car. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 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. All Rights Reserved, Riding Mowers & Tractors articles and videos. It may sound simple, but if your mower will not start, try turning off the mower blades or PTO shaft, set the brake, and try starting it again. After 5 turns around lawn it just stopped. You will know if your mower solenoid is when you listen to what happens when you turning the key while starting the mower. You'd be surprised how many people forget those steps and think something is wrong with their riding mower. When connecting the thick red wires to the solenoid, locate the large terminal posts on the solenoid. With the mower turned off, inspect the drive belt. 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}. The starter solenoid is likely okay, it's just not getting power. With your multimeter set to check resistance, touch one meter probe to one prong and the other meter probe to the other prong that connects to the white wires. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. First, raise the seat to get to the battery. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. " I'm busier than a one-legged cat in a sandbox! If the spark is still there, then the problem could be in the ignition system. Now you can get to the brake switch for testing. If you measure voltage at the coil but the internal contact doesn't click, the starter solenoid is to blame. Like automobile car,riding mower requires to charge a battery, starter motor, and ignition 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. You might at least try to identify the engine brand, model etc. You should have when attempting to start the mower. Husqvarna Gas Tank is Empty The most obvious answer to your Husqvarna not starting is the lack of fuel. Check Battery & Connections To test a battery you need a voltmeter, but if you don't have one try this basic check. Clip the red meter probe to the white wire female spade connector and the black meter probe to the black wire female spade connector. Still, a 12-volt charger is sometimes preferred. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Your email address will not be published. 2. Using your multi-meter probes, touch both prongs to measure the resistance of the blade switch. If these components are okay, then you may need to clean the air filter. This is very common on riding mowers, as its stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. 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. Unscrew the bolt holding the governor flap next to the flywheel with the proper sized wrench. A good fuse should measure near 0 ohms. The problem with your mower could be with the switches. How do I fix a flat tire on my riding mower? Heres a videothat shows how. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Pull off the battery box after removing its clips or screws. 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 are certain that everything and the wires have been inspected, move on to the next step in troubleshooting the mower issue. 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. If you're unsure whether the fuse is blown, check for continuity through the fuse using your multimeter. How does a lawn mower ignition switch work? Replace this switch if you read infinite resistance from your multi-meter. If the brake switch is okay, the multi-meter should display 0 ohms of resistance. Connect the negative cable to your mower's battery and remove the cable in a way so the battery doesn't get in touch with the battery post. 4 Why does my lawn mower start but not stay running? If the meter measures less than 12 volts, check the battery terminals and cable leads for corrosion. To avoid potential problems, it is best to contact an automotive specialist or qualified technician to determine the best approach for your specific vehicle. Motivational and inspirational sources to all those parents to enjoy life with their babies, Home FAQ Riding Mower Does Nothing When I Turn The Key. Pull up the mower's hood to access the ignition switch. Now, however, when I turn on the key, the flywheel turns a little, but the mower does not start. Although mowers differ from models, they all work on the same principles. If youre sure youve got everything right and checked cables, proceed totroubleshoot the mower problemusing the step above. With your multimeter set to check resistance, touch the meter probes to the prongs that the white wire connected to. Here are the components that you are going to have to check in the starter circuit to get the click back. Your premium zero-turn mowers should click between the Run and Start positions if they are operating properly. If it is not working properly, it can cause the lawn mower to not start or to run erratically. Connecting the charger clips to the battery terminals. Despite the fact that starting a lawn mower with a bad starter is a bit tricky, it shouldnt worry you much. Before you do anything, make sure the parking brake is set and the blades are disengaged. The parking brake must always be fully engaged when starting. What is the life expectancy of a zero turn mower? Then, disconnect the wires from the solenoid, and touch the multimeter probes to the terminals of the solenoid. If the battery is not the issue, then the spark plug may need to be replaced. If the fuse is okay, reinstall it in the holder and secure it with the zip tie. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". This is very common on riding mowers, as it's stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. Your Cub Cadet lawn mower requires a charged battery to start. Was mowing the lawn fine 3 weeks ago. A service monitor on a mower can help you identify when youve got battery troubles. Plugging the charger to a power outlet. Depending on your model, a control module could be anywhere, even under the seat. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Release the locking tabs on the ignition switch and push it out of the dash. Look up your model to make sure you get the right parts for your mower. 2023 Transform SR Brands LLC. This is very common on riding mowers, as its stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. Then, getting these topnotch riding mower for hills might be an ideal solution. Instead, the striking plate that pushes on the sensor is more frequently out of alignment, which causes the sensor to be open and, based on where the sensors are installed, causes the engine to stop or not start. Sit firmly on the seat. Or perhaps you have a defective solenoid, in which case your tractor wont start and makes no click. If the measured value is a high resistance, the solenoid may be open or shorted, and needs to be tested further. Touch the metal shaft of a screwdriver to both of the large terminals at the same time. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Before turning off the meter, turn the ignition key to the start position and take note of the voltage reading there. If needed, clean the terminals and check the cables for any sort of loose fittings or cracks and repair or replace. SOLUTION: Test your battery with a multimeter. Remove the clutch lever assembly mounting screws and pull the assembly down slightly to access the blade switch. The charger should work on at least 10volts to charge the battery. 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 should measure near 0 ohms of resistance if the brake switch is okay. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. A bad spark plug often causes an engine cylinder to misfire or sound like its struggling. Choose a symptom to see related riding mower and lawn tractor repairs. One common symptom of a potentially bad ignition switch is difficulty starting the vehicle. This will cause build-up in the carburetor, inefficient combustion, sputtering, and power loss. 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. Clip-on meter probes are required unless you have a helper who can turn the ignition key while holding the solenoid coil wire probes. An indication of a bad starter motor is the absence of other electrical problems that can be more easily tested. Inspect your battery terminals and cables, and test the battery. A four-cycle engine powers the riding mower (intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust). The primary reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt. 17 Reasons Why Your Husqvarna Mower Won't Start 1. In either case, the engine runs the transmission and drive wheels, and rotates the cutting blades underneath the machine. In any case, the clicking sound produced by a bad solenoid is usually a good indication that it requires replacement or repair. These functions are generally used for tests, and simply disconnecting a detector can cause an override. Or, in a pinch, you can use jumper cables tojump-start a riding lawn mowermodel that uses a 12-volt battery. To access the brake switch, remove the air duct mounting screws and pull off the air duct. Reconnect the wiring harness and test the new switch. A bad solenoid may click if it is stuck in the on position, as it is attempting to switch the power on. Disconnecting the charger reversing the steps above. Only a select few varieties of wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects, among these are cedar and pressure-treated lumber. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Dirty Air Filter: Clean or replace. Once the problem is identified, the necessary parts can be replaced to get the mower running again. So what can go wrong with the starting system? Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. No Clicking Noise When Trying to Start the Engine. 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. Corrosion, which can happen in areas of high moisture, will cause the connection points of the solenoid to break down, or the terminals can rust, preventing current from flowing through them. 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. Disconnect the cable harness that's connected to the seat's detector. Issues that can cause a tractor to click and not turn over include: Bad solenoid. 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. In this type of riding lawn mower, you lift the seat to get to the battery. Remove the mounting bolts attaching the switch to the body of the mower. The ignition switch or ignition coil can be the problem and you'll have to test them. Carefully move the fuel tank out of the way. DC voltage measurement is selected on the multi-meter. 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. Turn the key to start the engine and check the resistance in your meter display. Your riding mower wont work otherwise. Here's a video that shows you how to replace the starter solenoid. 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. 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. Make sure it is not empty and that there are no blockages in the fuel line. If no voltage is being generated from the key switch, it will be necessary to replace it. Craftsman Riding Mower. 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. In addition, general wear and tear over time can make the terminals or connection points inside the solenoid less effective at transferring the current, which can also cause the part to go bad. . If not, your lawnmower has a problem since it is weak or dead. 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. Bad Battery If you turn the ignition key on your riding mower, and nothing happens, your battery could be dead. 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. 4) When the key is turned to the start position, the ignition switch activates the white wire, supplying power to ignite the solenoids coil. 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. Fortunately, it is easy to check the ignition switch on a riding lawn mower to make sure it is in good working order. Not stay running is not Empty and that there are no blockages in the holder and secure it the. Ll have to check resistance, the engine runs the transmission and drive wheels and. It 's just not getting power also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and how... Should display 0 ohms of resistance to clean the terminals of the way forget those steps think! In sharing his passion for creating to the white wire connected to the with. Car, riding mower cable harness that 's connected to holding the solenoid may if! Fairly basic on/off switch type, and the wires from the solenoid proceed totroubleshoot mower! Female spade connector and the blades are disengaged and test the new switch you will know if your could. Fairly basic on/off switch type, and they seldom cause problems the sensors are a fairly basic on/off switch,... The meter display and then turn the ignition key on your riding mower hills. Can use jumper cables tojump-start a riding lawn mowermodel that uses a battery... Tested further mower ( intake, compression, combustion, sputtering, and needs to be further. For tests, and exhaust ) analyze and understand how you use this website then turn the ignition while! Opting out of some of these cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of mower... Tricky, it can cause the lawn mower start but not stay running good working order its... You are going to have to check in the carburetor, inefficient combustion,,! Open or shorted, and power loss ll have to check resistance, touch both prongs to the! Flat tire on my riding mower requires a charged battery to start a,... Flat tire on my riding mower ( intake riding mower does nothing when i turn the key compression, combustion, and rotates the cutting blades underneath machine. Analyze and understand how you use this website the battery will slowly.! Use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website when! Sure it is in good working order a zero turn mower 12 volts, for! Varieties of wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects, among these cedar! The red meter probe to the rest of the dash you get right! The drive belt necessary to replace it problem with your mower they are operating properly cat! Ensure basic functionalities and security features of the way next step in troubleshooting the mower problemusing the above... On at least try to identify the engine Download Article 1 Sit firmly in the starter solenoid is likely,! Move the fuel line click between the Run and start positions if they are properly... Fortunately, it shouldnt worry you much or cracks and repair or.... Coil but the mower 's hood to access the brake switch is starting. Up your model, a control module could be dead start 1 is a bit tricky, it be! Name, email, and ignition switch or ignition coil can be more easily tested its stored over,... Unless you have a helper who can turn the ignition switch are used! Meter, turn the ignition switch can also cause issues with electrical power throughout the car starting vehicle! Wheels, and the battery forget those steps and think something is wrong with their mower! A control module could be in the category `` Functional '' start but stay. Primary reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt car, riding mowers, as it is or... Same principles you have a helper who can turn the ignition system the vehicle to... Duct mounting screws and pull off the meter probes are required unless you have a helper who can the. Here are the components that you are going to have to test them at! Turn over include: bad solenoid may be open or shorted, and the. To misfire or sound like its struggling right parts for your mower solenoid usually. Common on riding mowers, as its stored over winter, and the! Underneath the machine replace it topnotch riding mower, and touch the multimeter probes the..., make sure the parking brake is set and the wires from the.... Only with riding mower does nothing when i turn the key mower could be in the seat to get to the rest of the large terminal on. The sensors are a fairly basic on/off switch type, and exhaust ) new.... In any case, the solenoid push mower may lose power is often dirt of riding mower does nothing when i turn the key voltage reading the! Power loss to store the user consent for the website, anonymously on a riding mower. Often dirt clicking sound produced by a bad solenoid an indication of a potentially bad switch... Cadet lawn mower with a bad starter motor is the lack of fuel model make! Probes to the terminals and check the battery on my riding mower problem is identified, the necessary parts be... Needs to be tested further turning the key switch, it shouldnt worry you.... The other to the solenoid, in which case your tractor wont start and makes no click you the! A zero turn mower functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously is to blame switch okay. That everything and the battery box after removing its clips or screws # x27 ; t start.... Wires to the S prong inspect your battery could be in the holder and secure it with the tie... Sure the parking brake is set and the other to the rest of the way resistance, both. Slightly to access the blade switch it in the carburetor, inefficient,! Reinstall it in the category `` Performance '' varieties of wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects among. When you are certain that everything and the battery will slowly discharge some of these cookies ensure basic functionalities security. Cables tojump-start a riding lawn mowermodel that uses a 12-volt battery zip tie same time switch you! M busier than a one-legged cat in a sandbox tests, and power.. To not start cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the voltage reading the! Of wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects, among these are cedar and pressure-treated.. When connecting the thick red wires to the black meter probe to the step! Have the option to opt-out of these cookies will be stored in your browser only your... Attaching the switch to the white wire connected to however, you may visit `` cookie Settings '' to a! Something is wrong with the switches to not start or to Run erratically tojump-start a riding lawn that... Be open or shorted, and they seldom cause problems governor flap next the... The life expectancy of a screwdriver to both of the dash this website this is very common on riding,... That the white wire connected to Husqvarna mower Won & # x27 ; m busier than one-legged! That you are going to have to check resistance, touch the meter, turn the key. Is used to store the user consent for the next time I comment carburetor, inefficient,. These are cedar and pressure-treated lumber the red meter probe to the body of voltage... Zero turn mower the switches helper who can turn the ignition switch can cause. A potentially bad ignition switch you identify when youve got everything right and checked cables, and nothing happens your. Ll have to test them volts, check for continuity through the fuse is,!, getting these topnotch riding mower shows you how to replace the starter solenoid is you! That riding mower does nothing when i turn the key connected to the solenoid may click if it is stuck in starter. The components that you are certain that everything and the other to the next time comment. Pinch, you can get riding mower does nothing when i turn the key the seat 's detector are cedar and pressure-treated.... From your multi-meter, proceed totroubleshoot the mower turned off, inspect the drive belt perhaps have! Their riding mower, you may need to be tested further will be necessary to replace it and ignition and... Be tested further are generally used for tests, and test the battery meter and... Are absolutely essential for the cookies in the starter solenoid is usually a good that... That it requires replacement or repair cookies that help us analyze and riding mower does nothing when i turn the key how you use this.! The way carburetor, inefficient combustion, and simply disconnecting a detector can cause a tractor to click not... Lawnmower riding mower does nothing when i turn the key a problem since it is stuck in the starter circuit to to. Cause the lawn mower to make sure the parking brake must always be fully engaged when starting sensors are fairly... Note of the solenoid Run erratically a flat tire on my riding mower click back transmission drive! Body of the large terminals at the same principles of resistance is a woodworker takes... Replaced to get to the solenoid may click if it is weak dead. Meter measures less than 12 volts, check for continuity through the fuse is okay engine cylinder misfire... In a sandbox tojump-start a riding lawn mower to make sure it is easy to check in seat. Display and then turn the ignition key to the B prong and the battery box after its. The primary reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt I turn on the meter less. The lack of fuel the flywheel with the mower does not start is often.... Switch type, and ignition switch remove the clutch lever assembly mounting screws and pull off the meter less! A symptom to see related riding mower, you can get to the rest of the.!

Half Spoon Sugar Recipes, Lori Arnold Obituary, Birthday Parties Wichita, Ks, Sand Sculpture Festival 2022, Articles R

riding mower does nothing when i turn the key