Voltage drop to starter

[BruceP]

What is the " helper relay "?

Please refer to my original post (#20) which mentions adding a relay near the starter which supplies battery-power to the starter when you turn the key. This relay is 'picked' by the wire that currently goes to the starter.

 

[Mark_BX25D]

Fix known problems first.

You know the switch is a problem. Fix it, then see where you stand.

 

[lmichael]

Yep, fix what you know is bad. Search for posts from me relating to "no crank" or "no start". I did a full picture reference of it together with part numbers and everything I went through trying to diagnose my own tractor (up to and including even buying a whole brand new starter with solenoid). Kubota may make some really fine diesel engines but they suck at wiring and circuitry LOL

 

[GreensvilleJay]

That switch lasted 30 years more or less, in conditions far worse than being in a nice warm lab where it was tested. We have no way of knowing how many 'operations' it's done in the past 3 decades,how th ekey was turned, if someone had extra lights(loads) attached to it. A LOT of factors go in to how long a switch lasts. A manufacturer will read the spec sheet from the switch maker,looking at 'number of cycles', voltage and current ratings, weather specs. In 30 years, used once every day equates to over 20,000 cycles. Tear the switch apart and you'll find copper studs, steel spring,grease,plastic,etc. Water gets in..corrosion begins,metals 'change', fatique, fail..... it's the nature of the beast....
The nature of the failure is easy to understand,based upon the symptoms reported. Simple fix, new switch. If OEM and same quality as the 1st, should last 25-30 years. Are there longer lasting ones,yes. Can an electronic one be made, yes

 

[Strodad]

That switch lasted 30 years more or less, in conditions far worse than being in a nice warm lab where it was tested. We have no way of knowing how many 'operations' it's done in the past 3 decades,how th ekey was turned, if someone had extra lights(loads) attached to it. A LOT of factors go in to how long a switch lasts. A manufacturer will read the spec sheet from the switch maker,looking at 'number of cycles', voltage and current ratings, weather specs. In 30 years, used once every day equates to over 20,000 cycles. Tear the switch apart and you'll find copper studs, steel spring,grease,plastic,etc. Water gets in..corrosion begins,metals 'change', fatique, fail..... it's the nature of the beast....
The nature of the failure is easy to understand,based upon the symptoms reported. Simple fix, new switch. If OEM and same quality as the 1st, should last 25-30 years. Are there longer lasting ones,yes. Can an electronic one be made, yes

I ordered a new switch a week ago, but unfortunately I have to wait for the slow boat from Japan to arrive.

 

[bronc71]

Have you checked the integrity of all safety switches and associated connectors that interrupt the starter circuit? I had a low voltage at starter from key due to a loose connector at safety switch.

 

[GreensvilleJay]

with the 'weird'( not to me..) problems , it's not a safety switch but the main 'ignition' switch. A wonky safety switch would only randomly prevent startup, not the dim dash lights and such.