STARTING PROBLEM SOLVED

[EMIRCITNA]

I had an aggravating problem that my Gravely Zero-turn rider developed after only several years of use when I had to turn the key on & off about 30+ times before my Koehler engine finally started! ~ Thought it was low amperage and bought a new battery with 340 CC Amps, but the SAME issue persisted. ~ Thoughts of a bad starter or solenoid crossed my mind but upon checking the two spade wires that trigger the solenoid I removed them and found RUST on the contacts. Using a stainless steel brush and some electrician's corrosion-proof grease on both contact lugs resulted in my engine starting quickly & strongly with the first key turn!
Bottom Line: WHY doesn't the manufacturer of these high-end mowers do us all a favor and use corrosion-inhibiting grease on all the electrical contacts AT THE FACTORY so we consumers don't have to go nuts trying to figure out these problems a few years after buying their machines?!!!

 

[SeniorCitizen]

I had an aggravating problem that my Gravely Zero-turn rider developed after only several years of use when I had to turn the key on & off about 30+ times before my Koehler engine finally started! ~ Thought it was low amperage and bought a new battery with 340 CC Amps, but the SAME issue persisted. ~ Thoughts of a bad starter or solenoid crossed my mind but upon checking the two spade wires that trigger the solenoid I removed them and found RUST on the contacts. Using a stainless steel brush and some electrician's corrosion-proof grease on both contact lugs resulted in my engine starting quickly & strongly with the first key turn!
Bottom Line: WHY doesn't the manufacturer of these high-end mowers do us all a favor and use corrosion-inhibiting grease on all the electrical contacts AT THE FACTORY so we consumers don't have to go nuts trying to figure out these problems a few years after buying their machines?!!!

Why don't they?

For the same reason THEY don't make safety switches that are reliable. It may cost twelve cents more.

 

[motoman]

I use "bulb grease" which comes in small squeeze tubes. Also there is the electrician's anti-corrosion grease for alum to copper connections . I guess Radio Shack is going out of business. They did sell several types of heat sink and electrical grease. There are really good auto connectors made which are O ringed etc. Surprised the upscale brands don't use these connectors??

 

[bertsmobile1]

On things that are not going to be removed for a long time I give them a coating of liquid electrical tape which is a thick rubberised finish that prevents water getting in and is thick so it does not wick in and coat the contact zones.
Battery terminals especially.