1995 Ford 1520 HST won't start. No lights on dash, no relays or solenoid picking up.

[rpreis1977]

I have a 1995 Ford 1520 HST but it will not start. Ran fine on Sunday, turned it off to take a break, came back & now I've got nothing. No lights on the dash, no relays picking up or solenoid engaging. I did have two separate times where the dash lights came back on & relays picked up, but as soon as I moved the key to the start position there was a loud "Click" and everything went dead. haven't had anything since. Have a solid 12.8 volts to the starter & up to the ignition switch with the key in the off position, but as soon as I turn the key back to preheat the glow plugs, or forward to attempt to start the tractor, I lose the 12 volts at the starter from the battery & don't have it coming back to the other side of the starter thru the ignition switch. I just changed out the ignition switch with a brand new, NOS, original New Holland one this morning. Wondering if it might be something in the glow plug circuit? I don't have a service manual or any prints. Anyone have any ideas???? Thanks in advance!!!!

 

[Eagle1]

Check voltage on the battery to make sure it does not drop out there. A bad ground from the battery to "frame" will do that as well.

 

[Roadworthy]

I suspect low voltage also. Clean battery terminals and connectors. Replace and tighten SECURELY. Follow ground wire to frame. Clean and tighten. Charge the battery. If possible monitor voltage at battery while attempting to start tractor. After charge it should be nearly thirteen volts. See where it is as start is attempted. If it drops below ten volts or so you should be battery shopping.