Hi All, When I try to start my Scag the engine turnes over and the starter kicks out. Sometime the starter just spins without connecting with the flywheel. Any ideas?
My Gravely G16 did the same thing. First time it did this, I took a small hammer and TAPED the starter. After the second or third time, I took the starter apart and lightly greased the dry starter drive splines.
That corrected the problem. Dry grapphite would have probably been better since the grease will eventually be contaminated with dirt.
Over the years, I have done this with many engines--most people just purchase a new starter.
Most if not all vertical shaft engines have inertial bendix type starter motors. As the starter motor turns, the bendix will turn on it's gear and engage the flywheel. This is an area that collects dust and dirt and needs to be cleaned and lubricated periodically. If the starter motor doesn't turn fast enough, then the bendix will not engage. A dry lube is recommended as wet lubes will collect dust and dirt quickly.
Mad Mackie in CT
Just a small caution about 'tapping' your starter...
These small starters have permanent magnets glued to the inside of the starter shell... a tap Can crack the brittle magnet... It's always better to take the time to take it apart, rather than risk cracking it...
:smile:KennyV
Evidently, some do not know what I was referring to with "TAP" in all capital letters :smile:
Tapping can be done with a TEN POUND SLEDGE HAMMER:thumbsup:
I do realise that some would not know, so the cautions that were submitted are good:thumbsup:
