I have an X304 purchased back in '06. Recently, it will sometimes do nothing when the key is turned (no click, nothing). After repeating, I may get a click. After much repeating, it will usually start. When it hasn't started, putting a charger on it in "starter" mode will work to get it going. Ideas? Ignition switch? Starter solenoid? Other?
X304 intermittent starting problem
- Thread starter goclones
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mechanic mark
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Clean all electrical connections starting with battery, ignition switch, starter solenoid, etc. Pick up a can of CRC Electrical Cleaner & a tube of Silicone Dielectric Grease & apply to all electrical connections.
Thank you. I did all of the above and same issue, although I did notice that there was always a click when the key was turned. After about 20 or 30 tries, it finally started.
mechanic mark
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Check all ground cables & straps from engine to chassis, etc. by hand making sure they are tight & secure try moving them.
Replace Ignition Switch.
Replace Ignition Switch.
Last edited:
bertsmobile1
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You check the key switch by pulling the plug off the back and jumping the terminals.
Starts right up every time = bad switch
Stays the same = bad wirirng
Starts right up every time = bad switch
Stays the same = bad wirirng
Started most of the time jumping the terminals.
Flint_Fredstone123
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ok.. here is your problem. what your engine is doing is when trying to start, its turning to the compression stroke and at this point the starter can't turn the flywheel. sometimes it will click and sometimes nothing. Your valves, mainly the exhaust valve is out of adjustment. There is a very fine line, something like .002 of an inch, at which point the compression release won't engage soon enough for the starter to turn the engine over. Classic no start due to valvetrain wear. Keep them valves adjusted!
bertsmobile1
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Yes you are correct in that excessive valve lash defeats the ACR
However his turns over fine if he bypasses the solenoid so nothing wrong with the cranking and a problem with the cranking circuit.
As this is a JD and JD spends fortune making the best easiest to use & most comprehensive mower repair manual money can buy there is little excuse for every owner not having one.
Trying to diagnose JD wiring problems on the forum is a problem because they regularly change the circuits and JD being JD their wiring is about the most complicated it is possible to do .
However his turns over fine if he bypasses the solenoid so nothing wrong with the cranking and a problem with the cranking circuit.
As this is a JD and JD spends fortune making the best easiest to use & most comprehensive mower repair manual money can buy there is little excuse for every owner not having one.
Trying to diagnose JD wiring problems on the forum is a problem because they regularly change the circuits and JD being JD their wiring is about the most complicated it is possible to do .