L2550 Starting Problem

[scottz]

I have a starting problem (electrical) with my L2550 that has been intermittent for quite a while. The tractor will go for months with no problem, then start acting up again. When I try to start it, I just hear the starter solenoid (loud click). Sometimes, if I try repeatedly, it will eventually start. Not today, so I jumped 12V from the battery to the starter control terminal and she started right up.

Here is what I have done so far:

• New starter about a year ago
• New battery Oct 2020
• New ignition switch last week

It started just fine for several times after I replaced the switch, then today it did not start.

I think the clutch safety switch is working properly; if I depress the clutch, I get the loud solenoid click; if I do not depress the clutch, no click.

I am not aware of any other safety lockouts; are there any besides the clutch pedal?

I think my next steps are:

• Replace the clutch pedal switch
• Dig into the wiring between the ignition switch and starter looking for problem (it always starts if I jump 12V to the starter control terminal).

However, I'm confused since the starter seems to be trying to engage.

Any other ideas before I pull what hair I have left out?

Thanks

 

[GeoHorn]

Next time you experience only a “click”.... see what the actual voltage is on the starter-solenoid-terminal. If less than 12V.... it’s likely either a bad terminal or failing start relay.

 

[scottz]

Next time you experience only a “click”.... see what the actual voltage is on the starter-solenoid-terminal. If less than 12V.... it’s likely either a bad terminal or failing start relay.

Good idea, I'm thinking wiring issue or bad/loose terminal at the starter. Be nice if it was that simple. I was under the impression this unit did not have a starter relay. I thought the ignition switch did it all.

 

[007kubotaguy]

You don’t have a starter relay. If you add one near the stater I think it will solve you Problem. Chances are you are getping low voltage to the starter solenoid. I use a Ford type starter solenoid from Napa auto part. It will operate on low voltage.
Good Luck

 

[scottz]

You don’t have a starter relay. If you add one near the stater I think it will solve you Problem. Chances are you are getping low voltage to the starter solenoid. I use a Ford type starter solenoid from Napa auto part. It will operate on low voltage.
Good Luck

Now that is a great idea! Thanks.

 

[rbargeron]

Sounds to me like worn contacts inside the starter solenoid - take a look at this video.

The new contacts are available at many car parts stores or on eBay for cheap. Do it yourself and save a lot. Have fun - Dick B

 

[rbargeron]

Oops! - just re-read your first post and saw the starter was replaced a year ago. So my post above may be bogus. You DO have a solenoid, you could check and clean the contacts but they usually last several years. Dick B.