JD GT275 won't start

[RichOnLopezIsland]

I bought used GT275 a couple of years ago, and it has worked well. Except this morning it wouldn't start. I used it just a few days ago. When the ignition is turned on, I hear a click (maybe the solenoid?) but nothing more happens. I have verified the PTO is off, the brake is fully pushed in, the battery terminals are clean, the spark plug connection is good. I noticed in a prior post from someone with a similar problem they disassembled and cleaned the starter solenoid but I don't know where it is. The fuel filter, spark plug, air filter, oil and filter were changed recently. Any ideas?

richonlopezisland

 

[bruceatlam]

Buy a new battery ------------

 

[forgeblast]

Battery first then solenoid.

 

[RichOnLopezIsland]

Great, thanks. I hope that's the issue.

 

[Carl_NH]

Try to jump start it or charge the battery first - if it starts with a jump/charge then get a new battery, if not then solenoid or starter. Also when running check the voltage output to the battery - should be around 13.8V.

 

[forgeblast]

My last batter was dead, but when I put the charge on it it said it was fully charged. I even tried starting it with the charger attached no dice....new batter and it turned right over.

 

[Carl_NH]

My last batter was dead, but when I put the charge on it it said it was fully charged. I even tried starting it with the charger attached no dice....new batter and it turned right over.

Yep - same thing happened on my 1989 Cub Cadet a year ago - did a full charge but would only start with 100 AMP setting on the charger - so put in a new 365 CCA battery - this is the 4th battery in 24 years so not too bad. I use the trickle charger on all my seasonal machines now - about a month on each one just cycle it around and seems to work.

 

[RichOnLopezIsland]

Subsequent to my original post, now nothing happens, no "click", no dashboard lights. I installed new battery and still nothing. I don't know my way around small engines, so I don't know what the solenoid or starter even look like. If anyone has any thoughts, please post them. I live on a small island and the local repair shop is really business especially during tourist season. I'll look for a local that can help.

 

[bruceatlam]

Make sure that the cable ends are clean and tight ---- check both ends of the cables. Good grounds are essential. Wiggle the ends that attach to the battery ---- those ends have been known to break just inside the plastic cover on the cable --- you can't see it without wiggling the end to feel it. Do you have a VOM? If you do, what's the battery voltage at rest? Next leave the VOM leads attached to the battery and turn the key to start ---- what's battery voltage in with the key in the start position?

 

[Carl_NH]

Well, there are several fuses in the line from the switch - here is a wiring diagram to start to sort out your gremlins. Save this file and print it out to start the troubleshooting.

Get a volt / ohm meter if you don't have one - you can get these for $10-25 at your big box store or sears, or on line too.