JD 145 Won't start - Electrical issue

[Attono]

I have a JD 145, purchased from a Deere dealer about 7 years ago new. It has given me problems for about the last 5 years, where every year I'd have to replace the battery. If the tractor is run for several short periods, it just won't turn over, like the battery is getting drained down and not charging. Over the last several weeks, I have been able to hook up an external battery and jump it and it will start. Runs fine when it gets going. Now it is at the point where when I turn the key, it sounds like the starter solenoid is engaging, but it doesn't turn over. I pulled the fuse and checked it and it was good, plugged it back in and then tried a few times and got it to start.

I hooked up a charger and it said the battery was greater than 80% and then after about 5 minutes, said it was fully charged. Yet, when I try to start it, it won't turn over and I even get some sparking. I'm thinking the starter. What do you guys think?

 

[SandburRanch]

Have the battery load tested and check the valve lash.

http://outdoorpowerinfo.com/engine_specs/briggs_valve_gaps.asp

 

[Attono]

I get the load test, but what would valve lash have to do with getting the thing to turn over? You can push the thing around by hand, so I don't think it's bound.

 

[SandburRanch]

There is a correlation between valve lash and compression relief for cranking purposes on briggs engines with OHV ( overhead valve ) engines.

 

[Attono]

Not sure how to check the lash on this engine. I'm not much of a small motor guy. Any guidance?

 

[k0ua]

Not sure how to check the lash on this engine. I'm not much of a small motor guy. Any guidance?

I will almost guarantee it is mis-adjusted valves if it is a Briggs OHV.

Lawn Mower Repair Valve Adjustment - YouTube

How to adjust valves on a ohv briggs and stratton engine - YouTube

Many many more on you tube

 

[SandburRanch]

This fellow seems to understand valve adjustment when I see him turn the screw rather than the nut to set the lash. But you better tighten the jamb nut back as tight as it was from the factory or that little vibrating briggs will have those valves all out of whack in a heart beat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGkn0jR9RJM

 

[Attono]

Awesome, thanks guys! I'll let you know how it turns out.

 

[SandburRanch]

Awesome, thanks guys! I'll let you know how it turns out.

Yes, we would appreciate a reply.

I should have mentioned that those items aren't the only things that can be wrong with these little fellers but that's where I would start for the cost of nearly $0.00.

 

[Attono]

Anybody happen to have a Repair Manual P/N 273521?