Hard starting in cold temperture

[Steve0853]

I want to thank everyone for their input. When I went to remove the starter I think i found the problem.The 12v cable at the starter was not tight.Looking at it ,it appeared to be OK. When I went to loosen the nut it was already loose. I took the nut off , cleaned the connection and put the cable back on properly. This morning 30 some degrees it started up like it is supposed. The lesson here is to check the simple things first.

I'm glad it worked out well for you.

As an aside, I use 10W-30 synthetic in all my mowers year round.

 

[Mad Mackie]

Glad you found the problem. The battery cable stud on the starter motor is a fairly common problem.
For years this stud has been problematic on some brands of starter motors as it snapped off from over tightening. In time as the radial serrations push into the copper cable lug, the nut will become loose.
I'm going to service my Scag Tiger Cub and put it into storage today.
Later
Mad Mackie in CT:smile::laughing::biggrin: