JD 4400 Tractor won't start

[doc2460]

Hi,

I have a 2002 JD 4400 compact tractor (40hp) that won't start. Initially, I had to jump it to start but then replaced the battery. Seemed to work fine after that for a couple of weeks. Now won't start again even with a jump. When I turn the key, I get panel lights but no click or turn over. Tried connecting directly to the red terminal on the starter without any success.

Any thoughts?

Thanks

 

[beenthere]

I'd start with removing, cleaning, and re-attaching the battery cables. And also have the new battery checked, or fully charged after cable cleaning. Get that concern covered first.

 

[doc2460]

Thanks for the reply. Battery is good and terminals are clean and tight. I had already worked through that point. Connection at starter is clean and tight as well.

 

[arrabil]

I agree with Beenthere. Sounds like the battery is dead again.

Are you leaving the key in the vertical position when you turn it off?

 

[Egon]

If the battery charges up disconnect it when you stop the tractor for an extended period of time. If it's flat again it is probably the battery. If the battery is charged then you may have a short somewhere.

 

[doc2460]

I appreciate the replies.

I really don't think it is the battery. It's new and I've was able to start the tractor several days ago. I don't get anything when I try to jump it from the truck which worked when the old battery was dying. I don't leave the key in and it hasn't sat for an extended time. When I try to turn the starter by running a screwdriver from the starter red terminal to the frame, I get a great spark but no turn over.

Any thoughts on the starter or selenoid?

 

[beenthere]

Then are you looking for some ideas how to check out the starter or solonoid?

Also, welcome to the forum.

 

[beenthere]

To determine if the starter motor is defective for the 4400

 

[doc2460]

Beenthere,

Thanks for the info and schematics. Where is the fuel shutoff selonoid wire connector?...didn't see it on the schematic.

 

[doc2460]

OK...tried the test Beenthere suggested.

Without disconnect the fuel shutoff solenoid wire connector, I disconnected the 309 Wht wire from the starting motor selenoid terminal and jumped from the positive battery terminal to the starter solenoid terminal. Got the starter motor to crank over but did not fire. That's better than it had been previously. I assume the lack of firing was due to the fuel shutoff solenoid wire connector being connected

So, how does one go about checking the cranking circuit wiring?

 

[beenthere]

See second image attached, and letter A at bottom of starter. Should be the white wire referred to for removal. If not, I'll search the tech manual some more.

 

[beenthere]

Here is reference to the fuel shutoff solenoid connector.

 

[beenthere]

And portion of the wiring schematic, showing starter motor and fuel shutoff solenoid.

If the fuel shutoff solenoid is bad, wondering if that keeps starter from engaging? Anyone know?

 

[doc2460]

OK...check the voltage of the 309 Wht wire to the starter motor solenoid and it has no voltage with the ignition switch turned to start or run. Checked the white wire at the back of the ignition switch (same wire?) and got 12V with the key at the run position and 0V when turned to the crank position.

Any further thoughts?

 

[beenthere]

Here is the cranking circuit diagnosis, that may help eliminate some of the un-thought of simple things that may not be in the right position for starting.

 

[beenthere]

Just as well throw in the cranking circuit schematic. Might help trace the ends of the white wire. I see it passes through the start relay.

 

[gator]

Remember readin couple of posts about 4000 series no starts being bad 3 dollar thermistor. Do a search in JD owning and operating forum for thermistor (don't forget to put in answer to random question) and it might also be your problem.

 

[doc2460]

Thanks for the help everyone!

I'll start working through the cranking circuit schematic to see what I can find.

Beenthere, where did you find the testing information and schematics?

Thanks again.

 

[beenthere]

.........Beenthere, where did you find the testing information and schematics?

......

I bought the Tech manual on CD. Great to go in and check things out. Might find it on eBay.

The color highlights K7LN posted are great, but not on my CD.

 

[kebo]

Is it possible he just has a bad alternator that's not keeping the battery charged up?? You might see if you can get the alternator checked out by a good starter/alternator shop. If nothing else, it will eliminate that possibility.