Gravely 12-G starts and runs but dies once key is turned to run position

Jonnyrocket132 · Mar 10, 2022

Hi all,
I picked up an old gravely 12-G with I think the 12 hp Kohler for free and when I got it the key didn't engage the solenoid but I figured that out, but now I can't figure out why after I turn the key to run the ignition relay disengages and the it dies. I have tried a known working key switch and it still did the same thing. I have bypassed the seat safety switch and all the other safety switches are working as they should.

does anyone have any ideas on what the problem could be?

CADplans · Mar 10, 2022

Get a L - O - N - G jumper wire, with clips at both ends.

Connect the positive of the battery to the ignition coil.

Now crank it,, if the engine stays running, you have not found all the safety switches.
The other possibility (and this happens a LOT) is that the ignition switch is bad.

Fix it, or simply use it with the long jumper wire,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

RalphVa · Mar 10, 2022

Not sure exactly how to fix the current problem, but one thing that was weird on my 12 hp Gravely that I had you need to know.

If the points are set at the (think it was) 0.016", they will never close. Therefore, it will not run. You have to set about 0.012 to 0.014".

Richard001 · Mar 10, 2022

Does it have a mower deck on it. If so, how does it engage and disengage from the engine.

Tractor Data doesn't show the Kohler model number, can you post it here ?

CADplans · Mar 10, 2022

Richard001 said:
Tractor Data doesn't show the Kohler model number, can you post it here ?

The Kohler is a K-301

Richard001 · Mar 10, 2022

Ok that's a start. This from the engine specs:

Ignition system Magneto or battery or breakerless ignition system

What electrical Ignition system does your engine have ?

CADplans · Mar 10, 2022

It has a battery ignition, with points, and condenser.
The ignition switch eliminates power from going to the coil.

This is my 2 wheel version of the 12G,,,

I have had it "quite" apart,,,,,,,,,,,,