LK3054 wont start (Ignition switch problem?)

[JackMentink]

I have a 2004 model Lk3054, that has developed a starting problem. When I stated it up cold the starter sounded kind of weak over the last few months, but always started. Now the starter just clicks. The battery is dated 8/2006 and is not original. Lights come on turn signals, etc. The way the 3054 is set up you can hardly get to the battery. The large air cleaner is right in the way as well as the hood which tips up at the front. Can barley get to it. It seems after I wigled the key a little it started turning over and started. Then I stopped it and it wont start again. I have been letting it outside lately and it seems moisture possibly affects the switch. I put the battery charger on the battery and it read full charge almost immediately. I don't think it is the battery for this reason and the age (less than two years old).
Has anybody ever had an ignition switch go bad on an LK3054?

I would start the normal check the battery routine, but it looks like you have to disassemble the front of the tractor to get to the battery.

Any thought from anybody out there ?

 

[JoelD]

I would first put a jump pack on the battery and see if that makes a difference. Remove the two straps holding down the air cleaner can and move the can to on top of the radiator and hook up a jump pack and see if she'll start. If so, then it's the battery.

In order to get to the battery you remove the front panel from the tractor, there are two wing nut ended bolts that you remove, the panel then slides down and out.

Try jump start first and see what happens.

Be sure to remove the air cleaner straps so your fan does not grab them.

Joel

 

[Patches]

Remove the key and using WD-40 with a spray tip extension, spray through the "key hole" liberally. It's worked for me

 

[kentrodngun]

Every time my LK3054 has the conditions you describe, it was either a weak battery or dirty cables. I replaced the cables to eliminate that portion of the problem, but batteries don't seem to last more than two years (for me anyway) as my machine spends a lot of time outside. Good luck & keep us posted.

 

[JackMentink]

Thanks JoelD and kentrodngun for the excellent suggestions of what to do to trouble shoot my tractor.

I'm actually a little embarrassed as when I looked into things a little closer (after taking the suggestions of moving the air cleaner and removing the grill) I discovered that one of the battery cable ends was badly corroded and when I replaced it with a new one, cleaned the post and cable and treated it with anto corrosion spray it started great.

Thanks for everybody's help. you guys saved me a bunch of time and expense

Go Kioti, go kioti

 

[JoelD]

Great news, I felt the same way, these guys saved me a bunch of down time, aggravation and money.

The more people who contribute the more people gain.

Happy motoring.
Joel