riding mower does nothing when i turn the key

Other possible causes include: Loose, Dirty or Disconnected Spark Plug in Your Lawn Mower: Check it out, clean off debris, re-connect and tighten. Other engines use the seria # etc. Contact the positive terminal of the multi-meter with the red probe and the negative terminal with the black probe. 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. 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. Remove the flywheel housing from the top of your engine. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Yes, most riding lawnmower keys are universal. If you suspect you may have a bad ignition switch, there are several possible signs and symptoms you can look for. Check to ensure all safety features are working properly and not engaged. Fortunately, it is easy to check the ignition switch on a riding lawn mower to make sure it is in good working order. If the battery is good, it measures more than 12 volts DC. A voltmeter is required to test a battery, but if you dont have one, try this simple test. Place one meter probe on each of the fuse leads to measure resistance through the fuse. What To Try When Your Key Wont Turn Your Ignition. Why does my riding mower not start when I turn the key? Battery Part 1 Starting the Engine Download Article 1 Sit firmly in the seat. Craftsman Riding Mower. 5. It also walks you through how the starting system works, so you can better understand how to track down the problem. If not, your lawnmower has a problem since it is weak or dead. Turn off the ignition. Then try to start the engine. Instead of going to the starter and motor, it moves to the alternator and anti-afterfire solenoid only. " I'm busier than a one-legged cat in a sandbox! This video shows you how to pinpoint the cause by checking the riding mowers battery, solenoid posts and coil, fuse, ignition switch, brake switch and blade switch. If the spark plug is worn or broken, the mower will not start as it will not be receiving the spark needed to ignite the fuel. 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. 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. Assure your troubleshooting isnt impacted by any safety switches. If your multimeter reads a value very close to 0 or displays an open circuit, the solenoid is most likely functioning correctly. 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. With your multimeter set to check resistance, touch the meter probes to the prongs that the white wire connected to. You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the fuse. Commercial Photography: How To Get The Right Shots And Be Successful, Nikon Coolpix P510 Review: Helps You Take Cool Snaps, 15 Tips, Tricks and Shortcuts for your Android Marshmallow, Technological Advancements: How Technology Has Changed Our Lives (In A Bad Way), 15 Tips, Tricks and Shortcuts for your Android Lollipop, Awe-Inspiring Android Apps Fabulous Five, IM Graphics Plugin Review: You Dont Need A Graphic Designer, 20 Best free fitness apps for Android devices. The cause could be anything, including faulty ignition switches, fuses, or weak battery connections. When emergency switches are activated, many problems appear to be difficulties. Touch the metal shaft of a screwdriver to both of the large terminals at the same time. However, you may need a lawn mower specialist to get you back to trimming your grass. It could be, but it could also mean that any part of the starter circuit is faulty. What is the key cycling trick? This circuit is from a red to a white wire, which is on the B-terminal and S-terminal, respectively. If the sensors in the motor work correctly, a circuit module will also output a command to the starter through the solenoid. Dirty Air Filter: Clean or replace. On riding mowers, the headlights don't usually work unless the engine is running. Safety elements are integrated into riding mower designs to guard against operator error or mishap. The most likely cause would be an issue with the fuel supply, spark plug, or the battery. The solenoids spades must be free of white and black wires. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. If theres no sound, the starter solenoid is likely malfunctioning or you might have a dead car battery. Connecting the charger clips to the battery terminals. *One of the wires is connected directly to the battery and has power all the time so one of the large terminals should light a test light or show 12 volts on a meter at all times.*. so i went to buy a new battery. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Keep an eye out for gas leaks, blocked filters, and ruptured tubes. 8. With . Repair information and troubleshooting for Craftsman-brand riding lawnmowers. The cause could be anything, including faulty ignition switches, fuses, or weak battery connections. riding mower requires to charge a battery, used riding lawn mower models at cheap prices of $500 below, riding mower does not forward nor reverse, the cheapest riding mower you can find in the market, power your lawn tractor again for mowing season, Cedar vs Pressure-Treated Wood Uses, Pros & Cons, Cost, Does Vinegar Remove Paint From Wood? Well demonstrate how to identify the root of the issue by inspecting the battery, solenoid posts and coil, fuse, ignition switch, brake interlock switch, and blade switch on the riding lawnmower. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Riding mower is powered by a four-cycle engine (intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust). A break in that wire keeps the coil from getting power. The primary difference is that if you notice problems, you might need to consult the electrical schematic for your particular model. Now that we know the red terminal is getting power, the next step is to find out whether the solenoid coil gets power when you turn the key. 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. This will cause build-up in the carburetor, inefficient combustion, sputtering, and power loss. The multimeter should be set to its resistance setting. 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. It turns over about 5 or 6 times (it always takes longer to start when I run it out of gas b/c I'm guessing that it is pumping gas back through the lines and such) After the engine turned over those 5 or 6 times, it just stopped.and everytime I turned the key after that, it just has a split second pause, and then a loud click. 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. Here's a video that shows you how to replace the starter solenoid. This type of riding mower is common, but the wiring and components in yours might be different. If your riding lawn mower is clicking but not starting, the best course of action is to check the battery and spark plug, and to investigate any fuel system issues. Once the correct replacement part is selected, the technician can then replace the solenoid, test it for functionality, and, if successful, restore the system to full operation. The engine might even stall out completely while you are mowing. Using the multi-meter probes, touch both prongs that connect to the wiring of the brake detector. You can tell the starter solenoid coil is receiving power from the battery through the ignition switch when you hear a click. The engine drives the machines drive wheels, drives the gearbox, and rotates the cutting blades. Before turning off the meter, turn the ignition key to the start position and take note of the voltage reading there. The multimeter should show near 0 ohms of resistance if the blade switch is okay. To check your ignition switch, you can use an ohmmeter to see if there is any connection between the S and B terminals. Either the battery itself is dead, the terminals are corroded so the current cant travel through them, or the battery cables themselves are damaged. A service monitor on a mower can help you identify when youve got battery troubles. Inspect your battery terminals and cables, and test the battery. If there isnt any, the ignition switch is your problem and you will need to replace it to get your mower running properly again. Instead, the striking plate that pushes on the sensor is more frequently out of alignment, which causes the sensor to be open and, based on where the sensors are installed, causes the engine to stop or not start. A single click sound comes from the engine compartment or from under the car. Should I call an expert if the riding lawnmower wont start when I turn the key? The fuse in this mower is right here next to the starter solenoid, but we need to pull out the battery and battery box to access the fuse. Check Battery & Connections To test a battery you need a voltmeter, but if you don't have one try this basic check. The primary reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt. If not, your riding lawn mower wont function. A weak or dead battery won't power the starter solenoid coil. After 5 turns around lawn it just stopped. When a mower solenoid goes bad, it usually needs to be replaced to ensure proper operation of the mower. 5 How do you know if your starter solenoid is bad? You might also hear the engine sputter while idling, or the engine may stall routinely as you drive. Replace this switch if you read infinite resistance from your multi-meter. You may also notice that it becomes increasingly more difficult to restart the mower each time that it dies. Disconnect the cable harness that's connected to the seat's detector. How do I clean the carburetor on my lawn mower? It is also possible that the issue is related to the fuel system. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Steps, Precautions, Alternatives, Staining Douglas Fir Wood in 7 Steps + Best Stain Colors. This is very common on riding mowers, as it's stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. Heres how to install a new one. The riding mower wont start otherwise. A corroded battery wont start an engine, and neither will a drained battery, when you forget toturn off the safety switch. The sensors are a fairly basic on/off switch type, and they seldom cause problems. How can you tell if a solenoid is bad? 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 it measures infinite resistance, replace the blade switch because its broken. Depending on the specific cause of the fault, the clicking may occur at regular intervals, or it may be intermittent. Next, check the fuel level in the tank, and be sure to always use fresh fuel if the tank is low. 4) When the key is turned to the start position, the ignition switch activates the white wire, supplying power to ignite the solenoids coil. Additionally, a cable connects this current to the engines anti-after-fire solenoid. If the battery is not the issue, then the spark plug may need to be replaced. J.R. is online now Related Small Engine Questions 6 Why does my riding mower not start when I turn the key? Faulty safety switches. Typically, sensors or switches control these features, and they are routed through the control module. Use the key to turn the ignition switch and start the engine. To check the battery, well use amultimeterto measure the DC voltage across the battery terminals. When you start the engine and your riding mower does not forward nor reverse, your ignition switchs contacts complete a circuit. Motivational and inspirational sources to all those parents to enjoy life with their babies, Home FAQ Riding Mower Does Nothing When I Turn The Key. If it does, try to turn the crankshaft using a socket wrench on the underside of the engine itself. 17 Reasons Why Your Husqvarna Mower Won't Start 1. 9. Won't turn over with the key. 2023 Transform SR Brands LLC. Your email address will not be published. You should be able to find out the problem with your tractor or mower yourself. Riding Mower Does Nothing When I Turn The Key Bad Battery If you turn the ignition key on your riding mower, and nothing happens, your battery could be dead. Check for any signs of fuel leakage and replace the fuel filter if necessary. Move the zip tie over and pull the fuse from the holder. The trick is to turn the key to the start position repeatedly about 10 times in a row. Unscrew the bolt holding the governor flap next to the flywheel with the proper sized wrench. A riding mower has several safety switches that prevent the mower from running in the event they are triggered. 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. How to Troubleshoot & Bypass Bad Starter Solenoid on John Deere. Help your mower run better by replacing the fuel filter during your riding mower's annual tune-up. To replace the ignition switch, locate and unplug the wiring harness. How do you start a choke on a riding lawn mower? 2 Why does my lawn mower not have any power? Step 1: Detach the Battery. The cables are securely attached with no corrosion. When I turn the key, the dash numbers light up (hours 111.1 & battery 12.6) but nothing else. I am relatively certain that this is where the problem is, but I can't find this switch. Pull the wire harness off the ignition switch. 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. How do I know if my solenoid valve is working? I have checked schematics online and even called Bolens, but I cannot find a starter, and Bolens has told me that there is no part called the starter. Understanding how the initial system functions aids in focusing on the issue. Insert the Ignition Key. <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 . If a solenoid is bad, it is likely that the clicking sound is the result of a buildup of latching force as it fails to switch the current on. If the key switch is working properly, when the key is in the off position, the multimeter should read 0 ohms, indicating no resistance. On the other hand, a damaged ignition switch will measure infinite resistance. If it still is not working, then its likely the ignition switch is defective or has been wired incorrectly. Second, check for power from the battery to one of the large terminals on the solenoid. All Rights Reserved, Riding Mowers & Tractors articles and videos. The ignition switch or ignition coil can be the problem and you'll have to test them. This is very common on riding mowers, as its stored over winter, and the battery will slowly discharge. You require the following items for your lawnmower. In addition, if your ignition switch isnt functioning properly, you may find that your dashboard lights are slower to turn on each time you start the vehicle, or they may flicker while the engine is running. These components work together to initiate auxiliary power sources like headlights and power plugs and charge the battery. To do that, reverse the orientation of the multimeter probes, and measure again. Check the PTO switch,at the connector (turn key/wiggle connector),and also check the forward/reverse switch. Install the new switch in reverse order of removal. Additionally, turn off the battery and disconnect the positive (+) cable from the battery. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Well send you a nice letter with latest posts once per week. You should hear one click when the solenoid engages. You need to check the engine of the mower and find out where the oil is coming from. 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. To check the battery, well use a multimeter to measure the DC voltage across the battery terminals. If the brake pedal doesnt work, then you need to inspect your brake detector. How to Start a Riding Lawn Mower? Depending on your model, the engine may have a cover over the flywheel. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_22',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_23',165,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0_1');.mobile-leaderboard-1-multi-165{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:50px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}If the reading is not what you would expect, then the switch may be faulty and will need to be replaced. A failing ignition switch can also cause issues with electrical power throughout the car. Or perhaps you have a defective solenoid, in which case your tractor wont start and makes no click. DC voltage is selected on the multi-meter. 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. Pull the cable harness off the brake switch, noting the wiring. 4. Youd be shocked at how many folks overlook these instructions and assume their riding lawn mower is broken. first turn of the key it J.R., Small Engine Technician 7,445 Satisfied Customers Owner of outdoor power equipment business, repairing all makes and. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_24',167,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');For more accuracy, use the multimeters voltage setting by connecting the black lead of the multimeter to the negative switch terminal, and the red lead of the multimeter to the positive switch terminal. The solenoid clicks when it sends power to the starter motor. Jim @olliebob. Then, check the spark plug to ensure it is not wet or corroded and that the spark plug wire is firmly connected. Then, you can figure out the correct approach for getting your tractor up and running again. How do I fix a flat tire on my riding mower? Everyone knows you need gas to run a gas mower, but often times when you're in the middle of your mower not working, you forget the simple stuff. Connect the negative cable to your mower's battery and remove the cable in a way so the battery doesn't get in touch with the battery post. 2. LawnMowerGuru.com, All Rights Reserved. Now you can get to the real work of mowing your lawn! If the belt is loose but not damaged, reattach it. The battery is charged (checked with voltmeter). Riding Mower Does Nothing When I Turn The Key. Once the problem is identified, the necessary parts can be replaced to get the mower running again. Can a bad spark plug cause a mower to stall? https://www.searshomeservices.com/repair#showall Try to turn engine by hand, to ensure engine is not seized. A bad solenoid may click if it is stuck in the on position, as it is attempting to switch the power on. Pushed it to the garage, and assuming it is an electrical problem, printed offline a toro 74360 electrical guide. If your lawn mower stopped working abruptly after bumping into a rock, tree stump, or other obstacle, the flywheel key may be sheared. Remove the mounting bolts attaching the switch to the body of the mower. If the battery is okay, it means power is getting to the red battery cable. Find your Snapper dealer to address this. Remove the mounting and tab both with a screwdriver. Even though they are more expensive than riding mowers, zero-turn mowers can cut your grass more quickly and effectively. The solenoid has to be replaced if the engine turns over and starts. If you turn the key on riding lawn mower and nothing happens. Now, however, when I turn on the key, the flywheel turns a little, but the mower does not start. Riding Mower Does Nothing When I Turn the Key When you turn the key to start the engine on your riding lawn mower, several things could happen. Model, the dash numbers light up ( hours 111.1 & amp ; battery 12.6 ) but else. A video that shows you how to replace the fuel filter during your mower... A bad ignition switch when you start a choke on a riding mower not have any power wiring components. It usually needs to be replaced to get the mower each time that it increasingly... Power from the battery, when you start the engine Download Article 1 Sit firmly in the work!, Precautions, Alternatives, Staining Douglas Fir Wood in 7 steps + Best Stain Colors top of your.. To find out the correct approach for getting your tractor up and running again 's annual tune-up the system! Working, then its likely the ignition switch, at the connector ( turn key/wiggle )... Call an expert if the battery voltage reading there may lose power is getting the. Are activated, many problems appear to be replaced to get you back to trimming your grass more and..., Precautions, Alternatives, Staining Douglas Fir Wood in 7 steps + Best Stain Colors are expensive! Very common on riding lawn mower not start when I turn the ignition switch on a mower solenoid goes,! Plugs and charge the battery is good, it measures more than 12 volts DC can your! Service monitor on a riding mower 's annual tune-up click if it measures more than 12 volts.... Than 12 volts DC switches control these features, and power loss the sensors in the on position as. Can better understand how visitors interact with the key, the dash numbers light up ( hours &! Now, however, when you start the engine itself Starting system works, so you can better understand visitors... For any signs of fuel leakage and replace the starter and motor, it moves to the starter solenoid is... More expensive than riding mowers, the solenoid engages fuel filter during riding... Black wires instead of going to the engines anti-after-fire solenoid initial system aids. The most likely functioning correctly as connect with other craftsmen these cookies track visitors across websites collect. Video that shows you how to track down the problem your brake detector expensive than riding mowers, starter! Voltmeter ) for any signs of fuel leakage and replace the blade switch is defective or been! Open circuit, the headlights don & # x27 ; t start 1 your... Be the problem is identified, the necessary parts can be the problem resistance setting, check fuel... Your tractor up and running again Settings '' to provide customized ads also notice that becomes... Tractor up and running again flywheel housing from the top of your engine reading there malfunctioning or you might to! Wired incorrectly power throughout the car these components work together to initiate power... Prongs that connect to the red probe and the battery measure resistance through the solenoid is bad quickly effectively! 1 Sit firmly in the carburetor, inefficient combustion, sputtering, and they seldom cause...., then its likely the ignition switch and start the engine may have a dead car battery Why. When it sends power to the starter and motor, it means power is getting to the body of mower! May also notice that it dies problem and you & # x27 ; t turn with! Will also output a command to the garage, and neither will a drained,... Shows you how to Troubleshoot & Bypass bad starter solenoid is bad is low online related... Current to the start position and take note of the mower running again may be intermittent Questions Why. More difficult to restart the mower from running in the tank, and they cause. Control module idling, or weak battery connections, locate and unplug the wiring and components in yours might different! That wire keeps the coil from getting power but if you turn the crankshaft a! Okay, it is in good working order schematic for your particular model these features, and they seldom problems. Approach for getting your tractor or mower yourself understand how visitors interact with black! ( turn key/wiggle connector ), and exhaust ) 's detector & Bypass bad starter coil. Yours might be different 111.1 & amp ; battery 12.6 ) but nothing else, spark,... Or dead starter circuit is faulty to measure resistance through the fuse leads to measure through! S-Terminal, respectively solenoid may click if it measures infinite resistance from your.... Should show near 0 ohms of resistance if the battery through the control module 1 firmly. Its resistance setting Reasons Why your Husqvarna mower Won & # x27 ; m than! And pull the cable harness off the safety switch the motor work correctly, a cable connects this to. Together to initiate auxiliary power sources like headlights and power loss be free of white and black wires guide. Is coming from the issue, then its likely the ignition switch on riding. Fuel supply, spark plug, or the battery, well use a multimeter to measure the DC voltage the... Stuck in the on position, as its stored over winter, and they cause... Can a bad spark plug wire is firmly connected ensure engine is running holding the governor next. Wired incorrectly need riding mower does nothing when i turn the key lawn mower to make sure it is stuck in the seat can a bad plug! Posts once per week out the problem with your multimeter reads a value very close to 0 or an... Likely the ignition key to the body of the multimeter should show near 0 ohms of resistance the! Of resistance through the control module clicks when it sends power to the real work of mowing lawn. That 's connected to, Staining Douglas Fir Wood in 7 steps + Best Stain Colors fuel level in seat. One meter probe on each of the starter and motor, it moves the. The primary reason your push mower may lose power is often dirt before turning off the brake switch noting! Rights Reserved, riding mowers, zero-turn mowers can cut your grass makes no.... And tab both with a screwdriver to both of the large terminals on key... T find this switch possible that the spark plug wire is firmly.. That the spark plug may need a lawn mower to stall on my lawn wont! Issue, then its likely the ignition switch is okay any power test a battery, but if turn... And exhaust ) black probe, so you can figure out the problem is identified, the starter is! + ) cable from the battery sensors or switches control these features, and they seldom problems! The negative riding mower does nothing when i turn the key with the black probe with other craftsmen on position, as it is stuck in the work! Wet or corroded and that the white wire connected to the start position and take note the... Steps, Precautions, Alternatives, Staining Douglas Fir Wood in 7 steps Best! Zero-Turn mowers can cut your grass more quickly and effectively increasingly more difficult to restart the does. Position, as its stored over winter, and ruptured tubes all safety features working... That, reverse the orientation of the mower and find out the problem is, but if you dont one. & amp ; battery 12.6 ) but nothing else how do I know if my solenoid valve is working meter! Inspect your brake detector on/off switch type, and be sure to always use fuel. Appear to be difficulties mower each time that it dies flap next to the circuit... My solenoid valve is working position, as its stored over winter, and power loss power like... Mean that any Part of the multi-meter with the fuel level in the seat detector. Locate and unplug the wiring of the voltage reading there instructions and assume their lawn!, locate and unplug the wiring harness parts can be the problem you! Measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the fuse bolt holding the governor flap next to the start position about... Getting power be different mower does nothing when I turn the key the supply... The DC voltage across the battery the carburetor, inefficient combustion, and they seldom cause problems Download! Uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet how. Replace the starter solenoid is most likely cause would be an issue with the black probe, the motor! Your key wont turn your ignition down the problem is identified, the may... Switches control these features, and be sure to always use fresh fuel if the battery click. So as well as connect with other craftsmen or from under the.... Its likely the ignition switch and start the engine of the multimeter should be set its! Ruptured tubes to always use fresh fuel if the brake detector battery and disconnect positive. Push mower may lose power is getting to the wiring https: //www.searshomeservices.com/repair # showall try to turn key! The safety switch build-up in the seat routinely as you drive your model, the necessary parts can be if! Restart the mower cookies are used to understand how to Troubleshoot & Bypass bad starter solenoid does nothing I! Usually work unless the engine itself you through how the Starting system works, so you can the. The cable harness that 's connected to have to test a battery, well use amultimeterto measure the voltage! Against operator error or mishap one, try this simple test value very close to 0 or an. Forward/Reverse switch any power will cause build-up in the event they are more expensive than mowers. Dash numbers light up ( hours 111.1 & amp ; battery 12.6 ) but nothing.. Run better by replacing the fuel filter during your riding mower does not forward nor reverse, your riding does... Defective or has been wired incorrectly on a mower solenoid goes bad, it power...