Stepney 2,352 #1 Posted July 13, 2013 Hello all, I've been using the B-80 as a normal mowing tractor lately, as the John Deere has issues, (Again)... For months the charging system on the B-80 has worked fine, but the gauge never did... But it did charge. Now, for the last few months, I've noticed it was getting harder and harder to start even after sitting a week. Finally, about 3 weeks ago, It lost everything. Wouldn't even click! So, figuring the battery had shorted a cell, I threw in another good battery, and left the other aside... But it worked fine on the Bolens 650... Well, low and behold, the same thing happened! It ran fine for a day or two, then I left it for a week. I went to start it again, and it kicked right over, I missed the choke a second too soon, and it died.. I tried again, it did nothing! Jumped it, fired right up! If I don't shut it off, I'm fine. I tried a few other batteries, and it still charges, but It will NOT start unless I jump it! When I do, everything works great! I checked for shorts, and couldn't find any... You have any ideas what's wrong with it? This is the third Horse down this month... I sure hate to bring out the Cub 125! Or worse, the Craftsman! Just kidding. Thanks, Spenser. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lane Ranger 11,267 #2 Posted July 13, 2013 Your ignition switch might be the problem. Check the wiring behind the dash and the female wire connection. I have had to change two of these recently on 1970 models. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,204 #3 Posted July 13, 2013 The B-80 is a simple tractor when it comes to the wiring. First, get a good copy of the wiring diagram for your model. My advice is first check ALL ground connections. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Stepney 2,352 #4 Posted July 15, 2013 Thanks for that diagram! When I found, and as I have run it since, it has a separate starter and ignition switch, and the two stator wires go to the rectifier, and the mid wire goes the the battery positive post, it worked great for awhile, but I'll do it right now that I know how. By the way, Bob (If you don't mind me calling you that), Would you happen to know what type of switch it had? I've seen a few different ones... Thanks, Spenser. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 11,393 #5 Posted July 15, 2013 From what I see all B-80's use the very popular WH/Toro # 103990 5-terminal 3-position ignition switch. Garry Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,204 #6 Posted July 15, 2013 ...the two stator wires go to the rectifier, and the mid wire goes to the battery positive post.. The wire coming off the regulator/rectifier should go to the R post of the ignition switch. Then a wire goes from the B post of the switch, through the ammeter to the positive post of the battery. That may be the cause of your battery drain. When the tractor is not running, there should be no connection between the battery and the R/R. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Don1977 604 #7 Posted July 16, 2013 You said the amp. meter wasn't working if it is not letting the current get past the meter it won't charge the battery. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
