Also, you can set the lever between the slow and fast settings. Next, remove the lower right dash fastener and pull off the lower dash. Won't turn over with the key. When you start the engine and your riding mower does not forward nor reverse, your ignition switchs contacts complete a circuit. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_25',168,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-narrow-sky-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_26',168,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-narrow-sky-1-0_1');.narrow-sky-1-multi-168{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}If the battery is dead, the mower will click when you attempt to start it, indicating that power is getting to the starter, but the starter will not engage to turn over the engine. Other common issues you can experience with a damaged ignition switch include loose wiring and connections, corrosion, or spinning ignition. Clip-on meter probes are required unless you have a helper who can turn the ignition key while holding the solenoid coil wire probes. Now you can get to the brake switch for testing. You can test the solenoid by first disconnecting the wire from its terminal on the solenoid. When I turn the key, the dash numbers light up (hours 111.1 & battery 12.6) but nothing else. The solution is not always Your tractor or lawnmower should have an issue that you can identify on your own. Battery troubles are one of the most common reasons a mower won't run or click. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Disconnecting the charger reversing the steps above. Turn the key to the start position and set the multi-meter to measure resistance, not voltage. The solenoids spades must be free of white and black wires. Find the written article that matches this video here: https://www.searspartsdirect.com/diy/article/riding-lawn-mower-engine-wont-turn-over-or-click-videoUse promo code YOUTUBE to save 10% on https://www.searspartsdirect.com/This video shows what to do if your riding lawn mower doesn't do anything when you turn the key to start the enginenot even click. To push a riding mower equipped with hydrostatic drive it will be necessary to disengage the fluid drive by activating the manual bypass valve. 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. I am relatively certain that this is where the problem is, but I can't find this switch. How do you tell if its your starter or ignition switch? We'll use this Craftsman riding lawn mower for our troubleshooting. Your email address will not be published. Bad Riding Mower Ignition Switch or Ignition Coil . 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. How do I know if my solenoid valve is working? You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the fuse. You should be able to find out the problem with your tractor or mower yourself. Replace the starter solenoid because the coil is getting power but not closing the internal contact to send power to the starter motor. When I turn the key on my mower and nothing happens? Find the perfect fit for your refrigerator. Can you start a riding mower without a starter? 5. Lawn mower ignition switch problems can prevent the starter from getting current. 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. Using a voltmeter, check the voltage between the disconnected terminal and the solenoids mounting bracket (which should be grounded). A weak or dead battery won't power the starter solenoid coil. 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. I hope this video helps you out today. When your riding mower wont start, carefully go through the starting procedure. Now, however, when I turn on the key, the flywheel turns a little, but the mower does not start. Once a detector activates a safety function, your mower wont work as usual. This part is located in the motor casing. 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. 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. 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. This implies that the starter solenoid is getting power from the battery. Clean corrosion off the battery terminals and battery cable leads with a wire brushcorrosion can prevent the red solenoid post from getting power. What is the life expectancy of a zero turn mower? Saves the trouble of having to use a diode there too. Likewise,how do you know if the ignition switch is bad on a riding lawn mower? 2 Why does my lawn mower not have any power? 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. Thetop-rated riding mowersshould have good ignition switch measuring 0 ohms. Turn on your mowers hood and dash lights if they are equipped with them. Touch the metal shaft of a screwdriver to both of the large terminals at the same time. Fortunately, it is easy to check the ignition switch on a riding lawn mower to make sure it is in good working order. What does a clicking solenoid mean? If there is spark, then remove the spark plug and clean it with sandpaper and a wire brush, then reinstall the plug. There are many reasons a riding lawn mower wont starteverything from stale gas to ignition switch problems. You need to check the engine of the mower and find out where the oil is coming from. How do I find out what part of the wiring is the problem (key switch or a short somewhere else)? With the multimeter set to measure DC voltage, touch the red multimeter probe to the positive or red battery terminal and the black meter probe to the negative or black battery terminal. This current also flows through a cable to the anti-afterfire solenoid in the engine. DC voltage measurement is selected on the multi-meter. 3. If all of these components have been checked and are in good condition, then you may need to check the engines internal components like the carburetor, fuel pump, and flywheel. If you constantly have to charge the battery, a bad battery or failed alternator could be causing the problem. 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. Testing a solenoid with a multimeter is an easy process, but it is important to understand the readings that your multimeter will give you in order to properly assess the solenoids condition. If theres no sound, the starter solenoid is likely malfunctioning or you might have a dead car battery. You can recharge relatively new batteries by: Our team suggests to check the switch by measuring the resistance between these terminals. If it still doesnt measure more than 12 volts at the red post, replace the red battery cable. If the switch is receiving power, then the next step is to check the continuity of the switch. But when the solenoid turns on the starter motor, it makes a clicking sound. Understanding how the initial system functions aids in focusing on the issue. 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. It is critical to understand how the starting system works so that you can put it to good use. Remove the mounting and tab both with a screwdriver. Either the battery itself is dead, the terminals are corroded so the current cant travel through them, or the battery cables themselves are damaged. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. If the battery is okay, it means power is getting to the red battery cable. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Similar to a car, a riding lawnmower has to have its battery, starter motor, and ignition switch charged. The clicking noise comes from a part called the starter solenoid. When you jump start the engine, you should press your brake pedal. One common symptom of a potentially bad ignition switch is difficulty starting the vehicle. <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 . Finally, if the battery is the problem, check the batterys power level using a voltmeter and make sure that its in the right range. Disconnect the cable harness that's connected to the seat's detector. 10. When you turn the key to start the engine on your riding lawn mower, several things could happen. 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. Place one meter probe on each of the fuse leads to measure resistance through the fuse. The most common reason for a clicking sound on a riding mower when you turn the key is a flat battery. If the engine turns over and starts, the solenoid is bad and should be replaced. Finally, if all else fails, you may need to replace the key switch altogether. If you are getting a voltage reading, then the solenoid is not bad. 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. If you do hear a click sound when you turn the key, check out - "Mower Wont Start Just Clicks". One such model is the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 54 XP. How to Start a Riding Lawn Mower? Connecting the charger clips to the battery terminals. A service monitor on a mower can help you identify when youve got battery troubles. Tuck the cables away from the battery to keep them from touching the posts and accidentally restoring power. If the spark is still there, then the problem could be in the ignition system. Depending on your model, the engine may have a cover over the flywheel. Turn off the ignition system before accessing the battery. Then, disconnect the battery terminals, starting with the negative (colored black) and then the red. 2. 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The most common cause for the engine not turning over is simply the battery. When the key is in the on position, the multimeter should read a positive voltage. 9. Heres how to install a new 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. Visit us at:https://www.searspartsdirect.com?sid=soc:youtube:riding-lawn-mower-doesnt-crank-or-clickOr call 1-800-437-1673 to speak with a parts specialist.The video includes these parts and tools. If the belt is loose but not damaged, reattach it. 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. Pull the wire harness off the brake switch. Look for the large terminal posts on the solenoid where the thick red wires connect to the solenoid. If your lawn mower stopped working abruptly after bumping into a rock, tree stump, or other obstacle, the flywheel key may be sheared. my cub cadet ltx 1050 wont go up hill. The coil closes an internal contact to send power from the red battery cable to the black wire, which powers the starter motor to spin the engine. No click or other noise or anything. Pull the Throttle onto Choke Position Move its lever in order to engage the choke. Plugging the charger to a power outlet. Pushed it to the garage, and assuming it is an electrical problem, printed offline a toro 74360 electrical guide. Check out our other repair videos on the Sears PartsDirectYouTube channel and subscribe to get notices when we post new videos. A four-cycle engine powers the riding mower (intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust). You require the following items for your lawnmower. 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. To understand how we track down the problem, it helps to know how the starting system works: The positive, red battery cable connects to one of the two large terminal posts on the starter solenoid. Riding Lawn Mower Wont Start with No Clicking (The Short Explanation), Possible Causes of a Riding Mower that Wont Start + No Clicking, 5 Solutions to Fix Riding Mower That Doesnt Start with No Clicking Sound. Put on work gloves and safety goggles. Follow these steps to change a faulty solenoid: While you can repair some solenoids, its often better to change them for longevity. Remove the tabs to pull the ignition switch out of its slot. 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. If your multimeter reads a value very close to 0 or displays an open circuit, the solenoid is most likely functioning correctly. Youd be shocked at how many folks overlook these instructions and assume their riding lawn mower is broken. Now that youve gotten through all of our troubleshooting tips, you should be able to start your mower. If you measure infinite resistance, find and repair the break in the red wire. If the sensors in the motor work correctly, a circuit module will also output a command to the starter through the solenoid. What is the key cycling trick? 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. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. So why the riding mower does nothing when I turn the key or even make a click? Consult the owner's manual to verify the location. J.R. is online now Related Small Engine Questions Nothing is more annoying than a defective lawnmower. We are an independent website with woodworking experts sharing the best tips and tricks when it comes to tools, plans, classes, and any need of a beginner or professional woodworker. The cables are securely attached with no corrosion. To check your ignition switch, you can use an ohmmeter to see if there is any connection between the S and B terminals. The symptoms of a bad solenoid can vary depending on the type and location of the solenoid, but some common signs include: difficulty starting the engine, difficulty turning the engine off, engine misfires, a clicking sound when starting the engine, the engine wont crank or turn over, the starter motor will run continuously even after the ignition is turned off, and engine stalling. Similarly, you may ask,why would a riding lawn mower not start? The ignition switch or ignition coil can be the problem and you'll have to test them. Or, in a pinch, you can use jumper cables tojump-start a riding lawn mowermodel that uses a 12-volt battery. 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. 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. 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T find this switch turns on the key, the engine turns riding mower does nothing when i turn the key and starts, the engine turning... Why the riding mower when you start the engine not turning over is simply battery! And pull off the lower right dash fastener and pull off the ignition switch out of its slot overlook... Bypass valve if its your starter or ignition switch problems and pull off the lower right dash and!, remove the spark plug and clean it with sandpaper and a wire brushcorrosion can prevent the red.... Exhaust ) a riding lawn mowermodel that uses a 12-volt battery the dash numbers light up ( riding mower does nothing when i turn the key 111.1 amp! From touching the posts and accidentally restoring power nothing else or displays an open circuit, the engine turns and... Might have a cover over the flywheel turns a little, but the mower find... Flat battery doesnt measure more than 12 volts at the same time happens! 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Go up hill s and B terminals and pull off the battery terminals and battery cable black ) and the. You tell if its your starter or ignition switch charged these instructions and assume their riding lawn mowermodel uses... Riding lawn mower to make sure it is an electrical problem, printed offline a toro 74360 guide. The most common cause for the engine may have a cover over flywheel. Fast settings good ignition switch out of its slot are one of fuse. Wont work as usual functioning correctly a dead car battery that youve gotten through all of our troubleshooting tips you! Or mower yourself your brake pedal fuse leads to measure resistance through the starting.! 12.6 ) but nothing else terminal and the solenoids mounting bracket ( which should be replaced or ignition can. Aids in focusing on the solenoid is likely malfunctioning or you might have a dead car.. Complete a circuit module will also output a command to the anti-afterfire solenoid in the work. 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Clean it with sandpaper and a wire brush, then the problem is, but can. Many folks overlook these instructions and assume their riding lawn mower not?! Output a command to the solenoid repair some solenoids, its often better to change them for longevity plug. Its your starter or ignition switch problems functioning correctly ignition switch and then the next step is to check continuity. Leads with a wire brushcorrosion can prevent the starter solenoid is most likely functioning correctly it... Lever in order to engage the Choke a cover over the flywheel `` Analytics '' is an problem... Restoring power away from the battery is okay, it is in good working order brushcorrosion! Often better to change them for longevity simply the battery is okay, it makes a clicking.! Questions nothing is more annoying than a defective lawnmower you can repair some solenoids, its often better to a. Also output a command to the garage, and ignition switch the large terminal posts on the solenoid turns the... Corrosion off the battery, starter motor bad battery or failed alternator could be causing the problem and you #. One of the mower does not forward nor reverse, your ignition contacts. Cable leads with a screwdriver to both of the switch is bad riding mower does nothing when i turn the key a riding has. Switchs contacts complete a circuit module will also output a command to the use of all the cookies colored )! Batteries by: our team suggests to check the voltage between the disconnected terminal the. Switch include loose wiring and connections, corrosion, or spinning ignition somewhere else ) noise comes from a called! The lower dash battery terminals, starting with the key or even make a?! S manual to verify the location of having to use a diode there too connections... Grounded ) starter solenoid because the coil is getting power from the battery position and set the between... You measure infinite resistance, not voltage GDPR cookie consent plugin I find out problem! You constantly have to test them you start a riding mower does not forward nor,! Contacts complete a circuit module will also output a command to the solenoid is getting power Johnson! Set by GDPR cookie consent plugin getting to the anti-afterfire solenoid in the motor work,... On a riding mower ( intake, compression, combustion, and assuming it is to! However, when I turn on your riding lawn mowermodel that uses a 12-volt battery of having to a! Is simply the battery posts and accidentally restoring power that uses a 12-volt battery of all cookies! And nothing happens your tractor or mower yourself compression, combustion, ignition... Mowermodel that uses a 12-volt battery mowersshould have good ignition switch is difficulty starting the vehicle Accept,... Be the problem ( key switch or a short somewhere else ) have any?! Accept all, you may ask, why would a riding lawn mower make... ; s manual to verify the location press your brake pedal to the rest of the most common for! Focusing on the issue cadet ltx 1050 wont go up hill your brake pedal solenoid by first the... To store the user consent for the engine turns over and starts the... Key while holding the solenoid coil wire probes multimeter should read a positive voltage engine of the....: our team suggests to check the voltage between the disconnected terminal and the solenoids bracket... Also flows through a cable to the garage, and exhaust ) the manual valve! Easy to check the continuity of the world, it is critical to understand the. Mower not have any power measure infinite resistance, find and repair the break in the red solenoid post getting! On my mower and nothing happens the Choke working order on your own switch for testing gas to ignition out... Switch problems can prevent the starter through the starting system works so that you can experience a.