Walk behind skags blade engagement problem

[tubijxg]

I have a 09 skags 52" walk behind and the blades dont always engauge when button is pulled out. It used to come on at 1/2 throttle but now it has to be full throttle and then sometimes you have to bounce front end a little, does this sound like need of new clutch!

 

[Mad Mackie]

Could be that you need a new clutch, but the bouncing of the machine to get the clutch to engage indicates to me an electrical problem. Inspect the wiring for chaffing, check the plug connectors for dirt and condition. Disconnect the power plug to the clutch and check the continuity of the coil with an ohmmeter. You will need to know what the acceptable range of resistance is for your specific clutch. Also check from each clutch wire connector to ground to see if the clutch coil is shorted to ground. A clutch coil that is shorted to ground can cause serious internal damage to an engine. Most electric clutches found on mowers are manufactured by Warner or Ogura and the electrical specs can be found on line. Any electrical measurements must be performed with a quality multimeter.
Is the charging system on your machine operating correctly? Low voltage in the electrical system during machine operation can also be a factor.
Mad Mackie in CT :laughing::biggrin:

 

[mcahill135]

I think I'm having a similar problem with my Skag. I have a Tiger Cub and the cutting blades are slow to engage when pulling the switch. Are there any other indications to watch for to verify/troubleshoot the condition short of bringing it in for repairs?