Have 12+ volts, but still- starting problem

[rigoletto]

That was easy- Ranger- there is no power to that small termonal! With clutch pedal depressed, key on, test light on small blade terminal. No voltage! Your post with the steps #2 said it now could be safety switch, wiring, or turn on switch . Now, what do I do...........

 

[Rivets]

Ranger, does it sound like a bad key switch (starter terminal) or safety switch to you? With everything that's posted I'm getting confused. Just reread the entire thread and he does give a unit model number. Didn't some of the MTD units have a fuse?

 

[Lawnranger]

Ranger, does it sound like a bad key switch (starter terminal) or safety switch to you? With everything that's posted I'm getting confused. Just reread the entire thread and he does give a unit model number. Didn't some of the MTD units have a fuse?

Yep, some have a fuse and I mentioned that in step#1. Since there is no power going to the solenoid from the ignition switch, the switch needs to be checked for power going in and coming out. Step #2 determines if it is the switch or solenoid or something further down the line like a bad starter but since there is no power going to the solenoid he needs to look at the control side of the starting system. The problem could still be a safety switch though.

 

[Rivets]

I agree with you, but I don't think he did the last test with the key in the start position, only in the on position. If he does not do that, he won't know if the lost of power is before or after the solenoid. I wish he would go back to your steps and report what happens after each step or we both will just keep repeating our selves. Am I over thinking this one?

 

[EngineMan]

Its working when he "hot wires it" starter turning that is, and like you both are saying he needs to work backwards from the solenoid, first solenoid, fuse in wire if there is one, wiring, ignition switch and safety switch(s). "no feed in the small wire" but like you said, did he turn the key full on (in start position)
Would be easier if he had a wiring diagram for it.
It does seem that you are going around in circles with this one, but let's sit down, have a cold beer and get it back into the workshop...!

 

[rigoletto]

I agree with you, but I don't think he did the last test with the key in the start position, only in the on position. If he does not do that, he won't know if the lost of power is before or after the solenoid. I wish he would go back to your steps and report what happens after each step or we both will just keep repeating our selves. Am I over thinking this one?

"Key On" , in my post #41, I meant key on start position. I did follow the steps Ranger said. I know its confudsing, but I think we're almost there, people. I now have studied the switch a bit, and found out there are letters stamped on the back side of it to help troubleshoot. Thats what I could do now. Thanks, Riv and rang!!

 

[Lawnranger]

I agree with you, but I don't think he did the last test with the key in the start position, only in the on position. If he does not do that, he won't know if the lost of power is before or after the solenoid. I wish he would go back to your steps and report what happens after each step or we both will just keep repeating our selves. Am I over thinking this one?

He just clarified with us.

 

[Lawnranger]

"Key On" , in my post #41, I meant key on start position. I did follow the steps Ranger said. I know its confudsing, but I think we're almost there, people. I now have studied the switch a bit, and found out there are letters stamped on the back side of it to help troubleshoot. Thats what I could do now. Thanks, Riv and rang!!

Now we are at the point where you get to do some research on your own machine. You are going to have to find out how many connectors are on the back of your ignition switch and what each one does. You will need a schematic, which I cannot provide, to determine what each wire is for on the ignition switch and then you will be able to test the switch properly.

Look under the seat of your mower for the model & serial number and then get on the internet and do your homework. If someone else on this forum has the schematic and can provide it for you, it will be a shortcut in time savings for you.

 

[Lawnranger]

"Key On" , in my post #41, I meant key on start position. I did follow the steps Ranger said. I know its confudsing, but I think we're almost there, people. I now have studied the switch a bit, and found out there are letters stamped on the back side of it to help troubleshoot. Thats what I could do now. Thanks, Riv and rang!!

Wow, my name gets shorter by the post.:confused2:

 

[Rivets]

So does mine. When it gets to R & R that's when we can have a beer. Post the unit model numbers.