hot start question(s)

[cod 121]

Looking for suggestions on trying to diagnose a hot starting problem.  The 418A starts fine when cold and the ampmeter indicates that the battery is charging.  I run the tractor for a couple of hours cutting grass and then I'll park it and shut the motor off to blow grass cuttings out of all the nooks and crannies.  When I hop back on the tuck the beast in for the day, turning the key does nothing.  No sounds and no crank.  If I turn the key to run and jump across the solenoid the engine fires right up and off we go.  I realize that by "assuming" the cold start means everything is okay I'm missing something so before I start pulling the electrical system apart and cleaning every connection I can find, are there any pointers as to what might be causing this to be a reoccurring problem.  The battery voltage cold (no motor running) is 12.7 and I believe with the motor running it's just over 13.

 

Thanks - Cod

[SylvanLakeWH 28,132]

Check that you completely disengage the PTO handle when you stop mowing. I have had the same thing happen two times and found it was just the PTO handle did not stay / get completely disengaged. Now I just purposely / firmly disengage and no issue.

 

Just a thought... 

[cod 121]

Thanks Sylvan for the tip but I finally found it!  The start switch has a sweet spot and if I turn it "just right", it fires right up.  I tested the wires from the switch to the solenoid and all of them checked out fine.  It was only when i was fiddling with the switch itself that I found out.

 

Shame they wear out so quickly.  Might have to look into converting a older car ignition switch as they seem to last longer.

 

Cod

[Tuneup 1,451]

At least the switch can be disassembled and cleaned. If you have the PTO switch I have on the C-125, same. I had the exact problem and it was that switch. A little TLC and she's back running again. Glad you found it. Electrical can be a bother!