Craftsman riding mower won't start. Just clicks the starter motor.
#1
10-08-13, 01:37 PM
Craftsman riding mower won't start. Just clicks the starter motor.
CRAFTSMAN TRACTOR
Model 917.251510
Serial# 111695C 001287
24.5 HP Kohler V-Twin engine
I was out mowing and hauling mulch for a few hours today, light stuff on a cool day. Stopped and started the engine a half dozen times over three hours.
At one point, I went to start it again and all I get is a clicking sound, coming from the starter motor. You can put your hand on it and feel it click, but the engine won't turn.
I will guess it's not the solenoid, since current is reaching the starter.
Can I just pull the starter off and take it in for repairs, OR buy a new one and put it on, by myself? Or does the beast need to go in to the shop?
Any advice on what to do next would be most appreciated.
Thanks,
Antifa
Model 917.251510
Serial# 111695C 001287
24.5 HP Kohler V-Twin engine
I was out mowing and hauling mulch for a few hours today, light stuff on a cool day. Stopped and started the engine a half dozen times over three hours.
At one point, I went to start it again and all I get is a clicking sound, coming from the starter motor. You can put your hand on it and feel it click, but the engine won't turn.
I will guess it's not the solenoid, since current is reaching the starter.
Can I just pull the starter off and take it in for repairs, OR buy a new one and put it on, by myself? Or does the beast need to go in to the shop?
Any advice on what to do next would be most appreciated.
Thanks,
Antifa
#2
10-08-13, 01:42 PM
Group Moderator
First I would check the battery. Is it old and need replacing? Also check the connections wherever a big wire ends; battery, solenoid, starter & ground. Corrosion or a loose connection can limit the current getting to the starter.
#3
10-08-13, 03:36 PM
Forum Topic Moderator
The solenoid is part of the starter on many of these twin kohlers. If yours is clicking, that's the case on yours. I'd check to see if the starter is in fact getting power or not, and if not, replace the solenoid.
#4
10-08-13, 11:55 PM
Thanks to everyone for the advice.
I'll take a multimeter and check the battery, solenoid, and starter this morning for 12 volt current. The battery is new, and a good brand. The local repair shop says he has the 4-point solenoid for this tractor in stock, so just putting in a new one myself is his first suggestion. He can also check out my starter motor if I take it off and bring it in.
The sun isn't up yet, so I'll get to this after I do some other chores.
I'll take a multimeter and check the battery, solenoid, and starter this morning for 12 volt current. The battery is new, and a good brand. The local repair shop says he has the 4-point solenoid for this tractor in stock, so just putting in a new one myself is his first suggestion. He can also check out my starter motor if I take it off and bring it in.
The sun isn't up yet, so I'll get to this after I do some other chores.
