Previous thread got too confusing. Reposting here with updated info.
Original problem was believed to be starter issue - replaced starter but tractor still wouldn't turn over. Suspecting battery may be bad, I used jumper cables to help start the tractor. As soon as I connected the cables to the tractor battery the starter began whinning loudly. I felt it and it felt like it was spinning but not engaging the start gear.
Two issues:
1. Why would it start running just by connecting the jumper cables without turning the ignitin key? short somewhere? On the previous thread someone mentioned a stuck solenoid? Where is it and how do I unstick it?
2. If for some reason there is a short giving the starter power, why would it whine and spin but not engage?
Original problem was believed to be starter issue - replaced starter but tractor still wouldn't turn over. Suspecting battery may be bad, I used jumper cables to help start the tractor. As soon as I connected the cables to the tractor battery the starter began whinning loudly. I felt it and it felt like it was spinning but not engaging the start gear.
Two issues:
1. Why would it start running just by connecting the jumper cables without turning the ignitin key? short somewhere? On the previous thread someone mentioned a stuck solenoid? Where is it and how do I unstick it?
2. If for some reason there is a short giving the starter power, why would it whine and spin but not engage?