Ford 4000 Won’t Start

[cjackson5351]

The other day we were using the tractor (Ford 4000 3 cylinder diesel) and it bogged down and cut off when we were on a hill. We figured fuel got too low and sucked in air.
We bled all the fuel lines, etc, but think we fried the starter in the process because it started making a terrible clicking noise and then wouldn’t turn over at all after that.

We got a new starter and replaced the battery and the battery cables to the starter as well since they were on their way out too.
Now that we’ve bled all the lines and replaced all that, it still won’t start.
There isn’t any power. The dash lights don’t even come on anymore.
Any advice?

 

[Mike1955]

Got a multi meter? Possibly anything. Bad new battery, bad connection, operator error increases in this heat.

 

[Harry in Ky]

Revisit the wiring at the starter. The positive battery cable attaches to the solenoid stud. There is also a smaller wire on that same stud that connects to the key switch and the charging system. Are you SURE that wire got put back on? If you missed it, that will give you the condition you described.

 

[cjackson5351]

Revisit the wiring at the starter. The positive battery cable attaches to the solenoid stud. There is also a smaller wire on that same stud that connects to the key switch and the charging system. Are you SURE that wire got put back on? If you missed it, that will give you the condition you described.

Wiring to the starter is exactly as the manual describes. Yes, the key switch wire is on as well.

 

[Harry in Ky]

So much for the "easy fix". Now you need to hunt. There is (or at least there once was) an inline fuse holder behind the cluster. Two actually, one for the gauges and ignition related circuits and one for lights. Old style glass fuses. You could start there if you haven't been there yet.

 

[cjackson5351]

So much for the "easy fix". Now you need to hunt. There is (or at least there once was) an inline fuse holder behind the cluster. Two actually, one for the gauges and ignition related circuits and one for lights. Old style glass fuses. You could start there if you haven't been there yet.

I know right. Nothing happens at all when we turn the switch, no sounds, no lights, no clicks, nothing. We will check the fuses tomorrow and we’re also going to change the ignition switch since it’s fairly cheap anyways.
We tested everything else with a jumper wire and it all works. The tractor sat for forever before we got it so everything had pretty well gone out or dry rotted when we got it so it was time to change it all out, but it’s frustrating when it doesn’t go back together and work.

 

[Harry in Ky]

If you haven't been behind the cluster yet you might just find a nice rodent surprise there. VERY common nesting site. They love wires and wire insulation you know.

 

[cjackson5351]

If you haven't been behind the cluster yet you might just find a nice rodent surprise there. VERY common nesting site. They love wires and wire insulation you know.

Oh how I know
I will keep you updated and see if we can find anything else obviously wrong with it.

 

[John0829]

Take a wire or screwdriver and jump across the battery post and the small post of the solenoid, if it turns over then you at least know it is a wiring problem. If it does not then it has to be starter or solenoid that I know you replaced but parts now days are hit or miss on quality.