K181S Commando 800 Dead

[82Caddy 851]

Hi Wheel horse gurus,

 

I'm in a bit of a pickle with my 72 commando 800.  It has the Kohler 181 and was working excellent pushing snow when it just shut down like the key was turned off.  I knew I was getting low on fuel and figured that was the problem.  Nope, plenty of fuel.  Go to restart and nothing.  No click from the starter, nothing.  Until last night I had zero starting issues and everything worked as it should.

 

I guess my question is this, I know there is are wiring diagrams floating around somewhere and I found them once and now I can't seem to locate the diagrams again.  I should have bookmarked it when I found it.  The wiring is pretty hacked together but worked so I didn't want to mess with it.  One of those, if it isn't broke don't fix it deals.  I had plans to fix this up over next summer but it needs attention now.

 

Next question is where can I find an ignition switch pigtail or a whole new one?  Locally I have a Mills Fleet Farm and Tractor Supply but those only seem to contain generic switches.  The local small engine places just laugh at me when I ask for wheel horse and old kohler engine parts.

 

Thanks!

 

Pics for entertainment:

 

 

 

[rmaynard 14,970]

While I find you a wiring diagram, go check the battery cables to be sure they are securely tightened to the battery. Then check the ground cable from the battery to the engine. Then check the wire to the + side of the coil.  If it just stopped suddenly, you either have a lack of fuel (maybe fuel pump), of lack of 12 volts to the coil.

 

However, you said no clicking from the starter which takes me right back to the battery/cables.

 

 

Not the best image, but all that I can find at the moment.

 

Edited November 28, 2014 by rmaynard

[Racinbob 10,478]

Definitely start with those steps. This might be a bit clearer.

[82Caddy 851]

Thanks for the suggestion guys.

 

I know the battery cables are tight.  I did look at that first.  I didn't check for voltage anywhere I was just frustrated and wanted the snow off the driveway.  I'll dig some more into it tonight.

[wallfish 16,072]

You can find a pigtail here

http://www.psep.biz/store/lawn_mower_parts.htm

 

They also sell the switches, you'll need a 3 position switch for a BATTERY ignition engine

[82Caddy 851]

Problem found. Used the wiring diagram posted above and found a broken wire and two more with the protective covering worn off. Replaced those wires and it fired right up.

Thanks for the help and suggestions.