Mower only starts with a jump

[mattimis]

I have a Mtd 18hp mower. I have a new battery, new solenoid, and nothing happens when I try to start it. If I jump it, it starts right up. Any suggestions why it won't start with the battery?

Thanks,

Mattimis

 

[Rivets]

Take a look at this thread. You may have the same problems.

Post back with a little more info on what you do without the jumper battery on and engine numbers.

http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/small...-craftsman-lawn-tractor-starting-problem.html

 

[mattimis]

Hi Rivets. Thanks for the response.

The model # is 13AQ699H206.

Before I jump the battery, I depress the brake, put lift lever to off position, put trans. in neutral, and then turn key. Nothing happens. not even a click. If I put my battery charger jump on the battery, it starts right up.

 

[reynoldston]

You need someway to test your voltage draw. Maybe your new battery is junk? Where and what are you jumping the battery with? If ever thing is good it sounds like maybe the cable to battery connections are bad or bad cables? If it starts OK with a jump start you are bypassing something.

 

[DaveTN]

Hi Rivets. Thanks for the response.

The model # is 13AQ699H206.

Before I jump the battery, I depress the brake, put lift lever to off position, put trans. in neutral, and then turn key. Nothing happens. not even a click. If I put my battery charger jump on the battery, it starts right up.

Sounds like a corroded connection someplace, perhaps a loose wire someplace. At least you know it isn't the solenoid if it kicks over. Also check the hot wire going to the starter. Wires going to the solenoid as well. Battery connections too. Hope this helps. Doesn't sound like a safety switch issue.

 

[HarryHarley]

For piece of mind, take the battery to any auto parts store. They'll load test it for free. That where you should start based on your comments.

 

[mattimis]

You need someway to test your voltage draw. Maybe your new battery is junk? Where and what are you jumping the battery with? If ever thing is good it sounds like maybe the cable to battery connections are bad or bad cables? If it starts OK with a jump start you are bypassing something.

I'm using a battery charger to jump it, on the starter setting.

 

[mattimis]

I took the battery to the store and it tested ok.

 

[DaveTN]

I took the battery to the store and it tested ok.

I'd start with the battery and check for tight connections. Check where the battery wire goes into the starter and make sure the inside nut and the outside nut are tight. I've seen loose ones where they wouldn't start on account of loose nuts. Electrical connections must be clean and tight. As I said before, it didn't appear to be a safety switch issue. With the battery boost it's probably making the voltage jump the gap somewhere.

 

[pugaltitude]

I would follow the thread what rivets advised in his post above.
Sounds like the engine cant get past compression so valve clearances.
What engine is fitted? Model, type & code if B &S
It could also be that there is a parasitic load like a drive belt still engaged even with the lever in disengage position.
So when you use charger, the extra power lets engine start.