Difficulty cold starting mower

[scott_]

Last season I started having trouble starting my mower between cuts. I found a problem in the ignition switch and I replaced it. I continued to have problems with starting the mower between cuts. I replaced the starter, problem continued. The battery has tested good. The mower typically starts easily if I turn it off and turn it back on within a couple of minutes. But if it sits too long sometimes I have to click the key 100 times before it gets a connection and turns over.

I'm hoping to find someone with a similar issue that can save me some time. It sounds like a lose connection. I'm guessing as it heats up the metal expands and makes a better connection (this would make sense with issues on a cold start). But I have not been able to find it anywhere.

Thanks in advance,
Scott

 

[BlazNT]

Are we guessing on what we are working on? Model number of it and motor?

 

[scott_]

Are we guessing on what we are working on? Model number of it and motor?

Sorry about that. Gravely 915154 (ZT XL 42"). Motor is Kawasaki FR651V 22.0

 

[Rivets]

Have you made sure that the connection of battery ground wire to chassis is very clean and tight? Common problem is that this connection will loosen and get dirty.

 

[scott_]

Have you made sure that the connection of battery ground wire to chassis is very clean and tight? Common problem is that this connection will loosen and get dirty.

I can check that this evening. Thanks for your reply.

 

[bertsmobile1]

Because you ae there & we are here, a little clearer description will help.
1) when you turn the key do you hear the solenoid click, or a relay click ?
2) does the starter actually engage but not turn the engine around, or not engage at all ?

Describe what is happening as if you were talking to a blind person becuse in effect that is what we are.

 

[scott_]

Because you ae there & we are here, a little clearer description will help.
1) when you turn the key do you hear the solenoid click, or a relay click ?
2) does the starter actually engage but not turn the engine around, or not engage at all ?

Describe what is happening as if you were talking to a blind person becuse in effect that is what we are.

Great Question! - I am hearing a relay or solenoid click. The starter does not engage at all. I hear click, click, click, engage. Sometimes I click it five times, sometimes I click it 50 times.

Keep the questions coming. I think that should clear up what I'm experiencing, but I could be wrong.

 

[bertsmobile1]

Put your finger on the starter solenoid.
You will fell it clicking.
How many terminal on you solenoid, 3 or 4 ?

 

[scott_]

Put your finger on the starter solenoid.
You will fell it clicking.
How many terminal on you solenoid, 3 or 4 ?

I'll have to check this at lunch today. I'm not sure.