JD LA145 riding lawnmower - DEAD!!!

oldhounddawg

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Hello. Here are the details:

I can only start this mower if I jump start it off my truck grounding to the frame and the ++ to the contact on the starter. Otherwise if I turn the key...not a hint of life.

-LA145 about 10yrs old

-battery @ 12.3V

-voltage when running (after jump start) 14V measured @ the battery

-I just replaced the solenoid (I suspected it was a problem, replaced it for $13....it wasn't the problem)

-The PTO switch works no problem

-brake auto-shutoff works ok

-seat auto-shutoff works ok

-I took the ignition switch out and tested it with a multimeter. I followed youtube video for testing and it seemed like everything had continuity that was supposed to..including when I turned to the spring loaded start position.

Few other comments, then I'll let you all weigh in on the issue. This mower has had problems charging the battery it's whole life. Every so often it would seem to not charge and I'd have to jump it. The battery would have virtually no voltage. Then it'd be good for a while and recharge the battery. After a couple years of this I'd have to eventually buy a new battery after enough cycles draining it dead. Has especially hard time cranking hard enough in the winter to start.

Also when I jump start it direct to the starter terminal I have someone else sitting on the seat with brake engaged and key turned. Not sure if it would start otherwise with direct jump....I think the brake would prevent it from running.

Comments????
 

mechanic mark

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OMGX22661_J7 see troubleshooting & specifications concerning valve adjustment.

Regarding hard starting you need to adjust valves with engine cold to specs. Post all numbers from engine data plate so we know what you have. I would check ignition module [ armature ] & coils under blower housing with multimeter. Let us know how it goes, thanks.

Ignition System Theory and Testing

B&S engine valves should be inspected for adjustment every 250 hrs. or every 2-3 years per engine manual specifications.
 
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SeniorCitizen

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Your tractor should crank with the seat un - occupied if the parking brake set.

Hard starting in cold weather - I made a gasoline primer port for mine and solved that problem.
 

Mikel1

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Have you checked the fuse?
 

oldhounddawg

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Yes, forgot to mention fuse is good. But thanks, that would have been easy. ☺
 

Mikel1

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How old is the battery?
 
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