GT275 won't start...so close...

tjtractorguy · Aug 18, 2011

I have a GT275 and it won't start. Key turn and nothing except dash light.

Bypass the solenoid and it turns over nicely. Not the ignition switch (bought one - ouch!) or starter itself. Bypassed the seat safety switch, no change.
Small purple wire to the solenoid is good, and it passes 4 volts when the key is in the start position.

I can't afford to buy many more parts, so I need to fix it; Thought it was solenoid fur sure until someone mentioned starter relay in another thread, and I haven't a clue where it is and how to test...I am thinking it is either the relay or the solenoid?

How do I know what needs replacing at this point? I really can't afford another $100 mistake. Thanks for help!

tjtractorguy · Aug 19, 2011

29 viewings and nobody has an idea what to do. Dang...

elroy4455 · Aug 20, 2011

If I understand your diagnostics correctly, you have 4 volts to the purple wire on the start solenoid when the key is in the crank position?
The solenoid shift starters generally require over 8 volts to actuate the solenoid, which activates the starter. Assuming you have good battery voltage, you most likely have poor connections at the key switch, PTO switch or poor internal connections at the key switch and or PTO switch, or failing wiring. We see all of the above on machines of the GT275 age. Perform some basic electrical troubleshooting. If you can't pinpoint the problem, your Deere dealer has a solenoid relay kit that 'helps' the starter start with low voltage starter circuit problems.
Good luck!
The starter relay simply provides clean battery voltage to the purple wire starter wire tab when the key is turned.

tjtractorguy · Aug 20, 2011

Thanks, I will continue troubleshooting why the voltage is low; it is the same with either my original ignition module or the replacement, and the wire from the module to the solenoid is good and unbroken. The switch to the seat safety switch is good. Am I missing one?

I will bypass the original wide and run a clean one, then not sure what else to do. I am considering getting the AM107421 power relay kit and putting it on.

Tom

DP Property · Aug 20, 2011

Bad PTO switch maybe? I have a GT235 and know the PTO switch is electronic if it goes the tractor will not start or the parking brake circuit? Elroy sounds like he has some good advice spray everything with contact cleaner.

tjtractorguy · Aug 22, 2011

Hooray! Solution!

Suggestion by K7LN was effective - The wiring deteriorates over time on this model, and adding a starter relay is common, apparently.

I added a starter relay for about $10 in parts per the directions of another forum post (thanks K7LN) and it started right up.

Sweet!

Tom

browneyedkowgirl · Apr 9, 2012

tjtractorguy said:
Hooray! Solution!

Suggestion by K7LN was effective - The wiring deteriorates over time on this model, and adding a starter relay is common, apparently.

I added a starter relay for about $10 in parts per the directions of another forum post (thanks K7LN) and it started right up.

Sweet!

Tom

Where is this post about instructions for adding a starter relay? I can't seem to find it or figure out how to search for it. I think I may be having the same problem with my tractor.
Thanks!
K