Starter Solenoid Question

However every since I got it you had to turn the key 3 or 4 times to get it to start. You could hear the clicking of the solenoid but it wouldn't engage.

Finally it gave up the ghost and stopped clicking-no big deal I thought-just needed a new solenoid anyway.

After spending $128 for a new one (non-factory starter) I use it 2 days and the new one is doing the same thing!!! What the heck? I don't think it is the starter safety switch because I can acutally hear it clicking.

Did I just get another lemon solenoid? Or is there something else that can cause this problem?

Since he already bought a new solenoid, bro, yah's de man. Think ya hit the nail on the head.....the ign. switch.

Mark

Gonna give you some clues and you decide what you have.
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1. You apply power to the start solenoid via the start switch. The solenoid closes. 100 to 200 amperes attempts to flow to spin the starter. Resistance in ckt drops ckt voltage down to low level. Solenoid can't remain energized....click...it releases.....high current stops. Energizing voltage at the solenoid returns to normal (you are still on the start switch) solenoid closes again.....click..... and on.

Solution. Check batt current capability, clean dirty wiring connections, replace cables, new brushes.
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2. Starter spins but just whirrs. Try several times to get whirring to turn into engine cranking.

Solution: Bad Bendix or teeth or ring gear missing/defective. But could be borderline problem associated with 1. above.

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3. Solenoid clicks (energizes) but nothing happens.

Solution: Bad brushes, bad wiring in high current loop, bad connections there too, including internal to the solenoid.
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What kind of solenoid did you pay $128 for? The very best, herm sealed, HD is only $40 at NAPA. Sounds like you boutght a starter.

One last point. Sometimes, when a system is borderline, you can get the starter to spin but it doesn't spin fast enough to drive the Bendix into the ring gear so that the engine starts turning. This problem could also be the Bendix is sticking to the starter shaft (grease and dirt make a sticky film)and can't fly out as fast as it needs to to engage. A simple cleaning of the starter shaft will cure this.

If you carefully read what I've said, and go back to your tractor, I have every confidence that you will understand and solve your problem.

Good Hunting

Mark

Try taking the two main wires off the back of the ignition switch, touch them together, see if it clicks.

Ben

Thanks for the tips!

Paul

Take care

Will