SMTA Starter

GordoSD · Aug 13, 2008

Yep it's that brand new saddle switch. Removed it and put power to the starter stud and it turned like a dervish.

Is there some sort of adjustment to those things? I can see where there has been some arching on the copper terminal that moves downward in the switch. It's an OEM product, but I imagine all of the new ones come from the same hovel in China.

Gordo

Janicholson · Aug 13, 2008

On the bolt holes that hold the switch to the starter, usw a chainsaw file to oval them to allow the switch to move farther toward the stud 1/8". JimN

Wayne from MN · Aug 13, 2008

Did you replace the original cast metal saddle switch with a newer thin steel switch?
I did and the starter would not work; it shorted the battery to ground.
After 3 switches and hair tearing I found the problem was the original switch mounting screws were 1/8th of an inch too long for the new style switch and when tightened they protruded too far into the starter case & grounded the winding inside the starter!!
2 shorter screws later & the starter worked fine.
Put that tidbit in the file of useful info for the future.

Bob M · Aug 13, 2008

Gordo - Most likely the copper terminal button on the starter has worn so it will no longer contact even a new saddle switch. (Note the terminal button wears away at about the same rate as the contact bar inside the saddle switch...)

As Jim suggests ovalling the switch mounting holes may allow the switch to be moved closer to the button to make good contact again. But sooner or later the starter will need to visit the shop to have a new terminal button installed.

GordoSD · Aug 13, 2008

We have a winner. As Wayne said , the screws were too long I simply tried the screw with two flat washers and one lock washer, and voila, we have ignition. And we are running. The good clue was " the lights go way down when the start rod is pulled". That starter was pulling a lot of juice but not turning. Thanks Wayne, and everyone else.Saved me buying three switches.

Great day in Paradise (SD). I'm about three days from knocking down that 3rd cutting on the alfalfa. Only this time I will be ridng a brand new SMTA!

Sorry no pics for a few weeks. Computer infected with spy stuff, and I can only open things with the windows task manager, and it won't do the camera program.

SMTA Starter

GordoSD

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Janicholson

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Wayne from MN

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Bob M

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GordoSD

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