Takes multiple key turns before starter will start turning - L2550

[Stinger23]

When I try to start my tractor, I always have to turn the key to start multiple times before it will engage the starter. Each turn of the key will get a solenoid "click" and after somewhere between 5 and 30 key turns it will finally let me crank the engine. It seems like it takes way more "clicks" after it's sat a while and less "clicks" if it's recently engaged the starter.

On a car I would say it's the starter solenoid but I haven't been able to locate the solenoid on this tractor. Is it in the starter? Is it hidden somewhere that's difficult to find?

The other possibility is the key switch but since I always get a "click", I would think that would eliminate the switch as the culprit.

A bad starter is also possible but the click is not the starter engaging in the flywheel and then refusing to turn so I don't think this is the likely culprit either.

Any thoughts on this or info regarding starter solenoid location? Thanks!

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

The Starter solenoid is on the starter.
Your problem could be the main switch, safety switch or the starter solenoid.
Quick test, make 100% sure tractor is in neutral and the brakes are set.
Then go to the starter, you will find a small wire attached to a terminal on the starter normally black white stripe, that's the solenoid wire. use a short piece of wire and jump that small wire connection the the Positive cable on the starter, if it cranks right away, try it several times, if it does it consistently you will need to figure out if it's the main switch or the safety switch, as the solenoid and starter are fine.
Check back in if it passes the solenoid test.

 

[Stinger23]

Thanks, I'll do that test hopefully this weekend an report back.

 

[Runs With Scissors]

after somewhere between 5 and 30 key turns it will finally let me crank the engine. I

As per normal @North Idaho Wolfman gives great advice.

However, I must say sir, that you sound like a very "determined" person to turn that key 30 times......I would have thrown my hands in the air and started cussing at around the 3 mark......

Good luck, and let us know how it turns out.