L275DT - Turn key, nothing

[timsch]

After indications that not all is well with the ignition system, for lack of better words, the tractor finally did nothing today when I turned the key.

Previously, there'd be a dead second or so when turning the key and then it'd turn over as expected. It's got a relatively new battery (load tests good) and a new ground cable. After that didn't take care of it, I pulled the starter and cleaned the terminals and wire connections, checked the brushes (good), and cleaned the commutator. Fired up great immediately after that, which was just a few weeks ago.

After sitting a few days, it was back to its old stuff. And now...nothing at all. I do need to move it to be able to work on it. The bucket is down, so no easy pulling it. I'd imagine it would start if I jumped the starter, but haven't tried that yet.

Recommendations on getting this resolved?

 

[Russell King]

You said nothing about the positive cable. Is it clean/good/well attached at both ends?

Do you have the starter switch on your tractor after the key switch?

I have a L185 smaller but similar and it will not always crank on the first time I use the starter switch. I have replaced the starter/switches/wiring and that resolved it for some time but it came back. I have a new starter (not rebuilt like last time) but just haven’t had time to put it in yet.

I think you can get a newer style gear reduction type starter that will fit and that would probably resolve the issue.

 

[timsch]

No, I didn't replace the positive cable, but IIRC it looked fine. I'll double check in the morning. No starter switch, just the key.

 

[#40Fan]

Check battery voltage first.