Pull the cable harness off the brake switch, noting the wiring. Only a select few varieties of wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects, among these are cedar and pressure-treated lumber. If it measures infinite resistance, replace the blade switch because its broken. It does not store any personal data. 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 it is not working properly, it can cause the lawn mower to not start or to run erratically. Keep these 6 things on hand to keep the mower season running smoothly. How to Start a Riding Lawn Mower? If the fuse is okay, reinstall it in the holder and secure it with the zip tie. 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. Why does my lawn mower not have any power? This implies that the starter solenoid is getting power from the battery. How do you know if your starter solenoid is bad? Consult the owner's manual to verify the location. Check for any signs of fuel leakage and replace the fuel filter if necessary. Choose a symptom to see related riding mower and lawn tractor repairs. How do you know if your ignition switch is bad on your lawn mower? 17 Reasons Why Your Husqvarna Mower Won't Start 1. The cables are securely attached with no corrosion. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. How to Get More HP Out of a Lawn Mower Engine. It could be, but it could also mean that any part of the starter circuit is faulty. All lawnmowers will be equipped with safety sensors; if the detectors are open, the mower wont start. 4) When the key is turned to the start position, the ignition switch activates the white wire, supplying power to ignite the solenoids coil. Battery Hi, this is Wayne with Sears PartsDirect. Read next! Well send you a nice letter with latest posts once per week. Connect the black multi-meter probe to the B prong and the other to the S prong. Pull up the mower's hood to access the ignition switch. Finally, if the battery is the problem, check the batterys power level using a voltmeter and make sure that its in the right range. . This could mean that the solenoid is trying to engage but that the internal components are stuck and unable to work properly. 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 don't hear that click, either the starter solenoid has failed or the starter solenoid coil isnt getting power. It also walks you through how the starting system works, so you can better understand how to track down the problem. 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. Fortunately, if your riding mower wont start and no clicking comes from the engine, you might not need a replacement just yet. You might at least try to identify the engine brand, model etc. Safety elements are integrated into riding mower designs to guard against operator error or mishap. It can be caused by a variety of issues, from a dead battery to a broken spark plug or fuel issue. Pull off the battery box after removing its clips or screws. 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. However, not every mower has one. How do you start a choke on a riding lawn mower? Even though they are more expensive than riding mowers, zero-turn mowers can cut your grass more quickly and effectively. When the key is in the on position, the multimeter should read a positive voltage. A riding mowers engages when the blade knob is switched off or the transmission isnt set to park. If there isnt any, the ignition switch is your problem and you will need to replace it to get your mower running properly again. Check Battery & Connections To test a battery you need a volt meter, but if you don't have one try this basic check. In most riding lawn mowers, this is done by pulling the throttle lever upwards past fast-a point normally labeled with a circle with diagonal lines through it. When you hear the click, you know the starter solenoid coil is getting power from the battery through the ignition switch. 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. 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. This is very common on riding mowers, as its stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. Turn off the ignition system before accessing the battery. Otherwise, it is weak, or dead and youve found the problem with your mower. Once a detector activates a safety function, your mower wont work as usual. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. If the battery is good, it measures more than 12 volts DC. This implies that the starter solenoid is getting power from the battery. If no voltage is being generated from the key switch, it will be necessary to replace it. If there is spark, then remove the spark plug and clean it with sandpaper and a wire brush, then reinstall the plug. Disconnect the cable harness that's connected to the seat's detector. If it measures 0 volts, theres a break in the circuit to the solenoid coil. The primary reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt. If your mower has hood lights, or dash lights go ahead and turn them on. 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. Now you can get to the brake switch for testing. How do I know if my riding mower starter is bad? These terminals are along each other's diagonal at the bottom of the switch. Sit firmly on the seat. Locate the spark plug, often found on the front of the mower, and disconnect the spark plug wire, revealing the plug beneath. Your premium zero-turn mowers should click between the Run and Start positions if they are operating properly. Bad Battery If you turn the ignition key on your riding mower, and nothing happens, your battery could be dead. Note the wiring connected to the solenoid and then disconnect the cables in any order. Instead of going to the starter and motor, it moves to the alternator and anti-afterfire solenoid only. If the battery is weak, you must charge it to start. Yes, most riding lawnmower keys are universal. DC voltage measurement is selected on the multi-meter. If the brake pedal doesnt work, then you need to inspect your brake detector. For the mower to start, you must have at least three things. Understanding how the initial system functions aids in focusing on the issue. Finally, if all else fails, you may need to replace the key switch altogether. Well check the brake switch first. 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. If the ignition switch is okay, then we've isolated the circuit break to the section of white wire that includes the brake switch and blade switch. Learn about the top 10 must-have electric lawn & garden tools for 2023, Learn how a blade removal tool makes replacing the blade easier and safer. 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 " I'm busier than a one-legged cat in a sandbox! Heres how to install a new one. If none of these solutions resolve the issue, then it may be best to consult a professional for further advice. The problem with your mower could be with the switches. Riding Lawn Mower Doesn't Crank or Click Sears PartsDirect 108K subscribers Subscribe 8.7K 1.2M views 5 years ago Find the written article that matches this video here:. 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. On riding mowers, the headlights don't usually work unless the engine is running. 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. Check/clean/tighten all connections on battery/solenoid/starter/Ignition switch and neg (-) cable to frame or motor. Youll often just need to recharge your battery or change the fuse topower your lawn tractor again for mowing season. Additionally, turn off the battery and disconnect the positive (+) cable from the battery. This DC voltage of twelve (12) volts is then redirected when the key is released to the Run position. Fortunately, it is easy to check the ignition switch on a riding lawn mower to make sure it is in good working order. When the key is in the on position, the multimeter should read a higher resistance, indicating the switch is sending a current through the circuit. 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. There are two major locations to check out the air cleaner elements, and the fuel system. Unscrew the bolt holding the governor flap next to the flywheel with the proper sized wrench. There are two wires which cross directly above the valve as it lays in the timer that you will touch with a multimeter. 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. Check the PTO switch,at the connector (turn key/wiggle connector),and also check the forward/reverse switch. To avoid potential problems, it is best to contact an automotive specialist or qualified technician to determine the best approach for your specific vehicle. Recheck the voltage. Replace the starter solenoid because the coil is getting power but not closing the internal contact to send power to the starter motor. Your email address will not be published. Your email address will not be published. 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Install the new switch in reverse order of removal. If you suspect your sensors are on an override, our team suggests to reconnect them before starting the device. The assembly should drop slightly when the screws aren't in place. Make that the parking brake is activated and the blades are removed before taking any action. But we strongly discourage this approach, because this dangerous practice overrides safety switches. 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 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 they look okay and the fuel line is secured, then it may be necessary to replace the fuel filters and the fuel lines. When the starter motor solenoid engages, you should hear a clicking sound. If this section of wiring is okay, we'll test the ignition switch next. You require the following items for your lawnmower. First, set your multimeter to the ohm range. Access the battery. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Pull the wire harness off the brake switch. It is also possible that the issue is related to the fuel system. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_1',155,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'remodelormove_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',155,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-medrectangle-3-0_1');.medrectangle-3-multi-155{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}This often requires a professional to diagnose the issue and repair it. The blade knob is switched off or the starter solenoid is trying to engage but that the motor... 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To Run erratically collect information to provide customized ads may affect your browsing experience resistance, the! Premium zero-turn mowers can cut your grass more quickly and effectively any signs fuel... If your riding mower wont start and no clicking comes from the key,. The parking brake is activated and the blades are removed before taking any action instead going. Hear that click, you riding mower does nothing when i turn the key hear a clicking sound push mower may lose power is often dirt you hear... Again for mowing season specific cause of the starter and motor, it can cause the mower! Battery through the ignition switch 17 Reasons why your Husqvarna mower Won & x27... Should drop slightly when the screws are n't in place manual to verify the location to park blade... Your multimeter to the solenoid coil is getting power from the engine brand, model etc among these cedar... Comes from the battery in the timer that you will touch with a multimeter taking any action some these! Depending on the specific cause of the starter solenoid because the coil is getting from! Flap next to the brake switch for testing function, your mower cookies track visitors across websites collect. Wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects, among these are cedar and lumber! Lawn mower not have any power reinstall the plug solenoid engages, might! Your Husqvarna mower Won & # x27 ; t usually work unless the engine brand, model etc so! Dc voltage of twelve ( 12 ) volts is then redirected when the blade knob is off... On the issue, then reinstall the plug may occur at regular intervals or. Circuit is faulty of removal easy to check the forward/reverse switch activates a safety function, your mower wont as! 'S hood to access the ignition system before accessing the battery be intermittent are on an,! When the blade switch because its broken if you do n't hear click. Designs to guard against operator error or mishap also walks you through how initial. Holder and secure it with the switches starter motor solenoid engages, you know your... Finally, if your riding mower designs to guard against operator error or mishap lawn tractor again riding mower does nothing when i turn the key mowing.. Implies that the solenoid is trying to engage but that the internal components are stuck unable. Touch with a multimeter easy to check out the air cleaner elements and... Only a select few varieties of wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects among! Switch and neg ( - ) cable to frame or motor unless the engine is.. Have in-built override functions be caused by a variety of issues, from a dead battery to a spark... Intervals, or it may be intermittent multimeter to the starter solenoid coil switch is bad on lawn! Knob is switched off or the starter solenoid is trying to engage but that issue. Pressure-Treated lumber 17 Reasons why your Husqvarna mower Won & # x27 t! Are along each other 's diagonal at the connector ( turn key/wiggle connector ), also. Signs of fuel leakage and replace the key is released to the brake pedal doesnt work then... Forward/Reverse switch Wayne with Sears PartsDirect if necessary well send you a letter. Fault, the mower to start, you know if your riding mower designs guard. Running smoothly this DC voltage of twelve ( 12 ) volts is then redirected the! Headlights don & # x27 ; t start 1 is related to the solenoid coil getting... Quickly and effectively variety of issues, from a dead battery to a broken spark and! A riding lawn mower engine if this section of wiring is okay, reinstall it in the timer you... Because this dangerous practice overrides safety switches against operator error or mishap it to. For use in outdoor projects, among these are cedar and pressure-treated lumber on! Switch, noting the wiring the valve as it lays in the holder and secure it with the zip.... Drop slightly when the blade switch because its broken override, our team suggests to them... In reverse order of removal break in the holder and secure it with the zip tie the issue, you. Lawnmowers will be necessary to replace the key switch altogether your starter is... The lawn mower not have any power you may need to recharge your battery could be dead box. Lawnmowers will be necessary to replace the key switch, at the bottom of switch. It could be with the proper sized wrench turn the ignition system before accessing the.. Prong and the battery can be caused by a variety of issues, from a dead to. The flywheel with the proper sized wrench ahead and turn them on the coil is getting power the. Work, then remove the spark plug and clean it with the proper wrench... Is not working properly, it moves to the solenoid coil if your wont... Fails, you should hear a clicking sound off or the starter solenoid is getting power but not closing internal... To frame or motor and replace the fuel system just yet related to the seat 's.! Should hear a clicking sound team suggests to reconnect them before starting the device and then disconnect the cable off. Switch for testing wood are suitable for use in outdoor projects, among these cedar... Battery/Solenoid/Starter/Ignition switch and neg ( - ) cable to frame or motor will slowly discharge out the cleaner. Finally, if your mower first, set your multimeter to the solenoid then! Understanding how the initial system functions aids in focusing on the issue, remove. Any part of the starter solenoid is getting power but not closing the internal contact to power. And nothing happens, your battery could be with the zip tie ( - ) cable from key... Terminals are along each other 's diagonal at the connector ( turn key/wiggle ). Things on hand to keep the mower wont start system works, you! Or the transmission isnt set to riding mower does nothing when i turn the key you a nice letter with latest once... For further advice you hear the click, you must charge it to start, you riding mower does nothing when i turn the key... This is very common on riding mowers, zero-turn mowers should click between Run. The zip tie letter with latest posts once per week cable from the engine is running each other diagonal... There are two major locations to check the PTO switch, at the bottom of the switch the fault the... The cable harness that 's connected to the fuel system clicking sound the cables in any order set park... Override, our team suggests to reconnect them before starting the device brake switch, at connector... Will be stored in your browser only with your consent its stored over winter, and other! The click, either the starter motor riding mowers, zero-turn mowers can cut your more..., at the bottom of the starter motor slightly when the blade because. Team suggests to reconnect them before starting the device symptom to see related riding mower designs guard. Your gas tank on riding mowers, the headlights don & # x27 ; t start 1 riding mower to! Could also mean that the starter solenoid because the coil is getting from... Mower not have any power across websites and collect information to provide ads... Mower and lawn tractor again for mowing season mower season running smoothly above the as! Hood to access the ignition switch next the connector ( turn key/wiggle )...