DIY: Troubleshooting Lawn Mower Electrical Issues - Mower Will Not Start

Don’t forget to hit those SUBSCRIBE and thumbs up buttons! Ring the notifications bell so you never miss a future video.
My MTD Gold Series riding mower would not start. It would not even make a clicking sound when the key was turned. This video walks you through the process of determining the electrical issue.
Here are some Amazon links to make finding the parts used in this video easier:
Replacement Safety Switch - amzn.to/3iqsksc
Solenoid - amzn.to/2ZgSINV
Fuse Assortment - amzn.to/3k0NqxN
Multimeter - amzn.to/3jZiVsc
Check out a few of my favorite things in my Amazon Storefront:
www.amazon.com...
INSTAGRAM: @tightwaddiy & @bentonart
FACEBOOK: / tightwaddiy
My description includes referral codes/links that allow me to earn points or credit that can be redeemed for products and/or subscriptions. When you use my referral code/link, you are helping to support me and my recommendations! Thank you for your support!

[@franklloyd96]

I bought this to use as my ignition switch on a 1963 Bolens 800 riding mower kzbin.infoUgkxaAnMgzTZ_djF6K1Kr3MGiW_XGUMfUP8n I repowered with a 13hp Predator engine. Worked great! On the back of this switch are 5 terminals labeled G, M, L, S, and B. The G was wired straight to ground, The S was wired from the back of the switch to my starter solenoid. The L is for any accessories, so I ran it from the L terminal to a rear light I have on the riding mower. M is for the coil, so I plugged the stock coil wire to this wire terminal. The B is for constant battery power, so this was wired to the positive battery cable. I turn the key, first click is the accessory position, and my rear light came on as expected. Turned the key all the way and Vroom...the engine started. Turn it back to the off position, and the engine turned off. Perfect! Hope this helps!

[@brooksidetownhouse6872]

Bingo! Debris on the blade cutout...if it weren't for your helpful video, I wouldn't have known about it. Thank you!

[@jonzylberman8596]

thanks for the most complete and intelligent explanation. I have a craftsman DLT3000, ran great all summer.went to use it yesterday ,no sound at all. the battery checks at 13 volts .the solinoid was replaced(4 post). Now when you hit the starter with the key the power is active through both lower posts ,only one top post. any ideas

[@johnwiechel]

Life saver. Appreciate it big time!!

[@TightWadDIY]

John Wiechel You are welcome. I have several videos for this mower. Be sure to subscribe.

[@johnwiechel]

You got it man. My mower is doing that, turn the key and nothing no click or anything. So went ahead and picked up a solenoid just in case. After the rain stops I'll check everything out! Troy bilt pony, but exact same mower besides a Briggs engine

[@donnabrown9648]

I can't tell you how thankful I am for you and your video. I am 55, disabled female, with severe trouble with my hands and on a very low income. I asked 4 different men to help me fix my mower and got no offers. I searched on-line and found your video and watched. Then over a period of 3 days, started checking all the points of contracts on the kill switches. I got to the solenoid, which I cried a lot over, because it has painful to get my hands inside the battery box and fender. But I did it, tested it as you showed and nothing. Ordered a new one and installed the next day. Turned the key and shouted out in joy and my mower started up, because this girl was able to do it with your help. Thank you so much.

[@TightWadDIY]

Donna Brown Thank you for sharing. Your determination is admirable. I'm glad my video helped you get the mower back up and running.

[@gregryan7761]

@Donna Brown...Good for you!! I had a stroke, so I know full well what your going through. I used to do this stuff all the time, now it takes quite a lot longer to get anything done.

[@qzorn4440]

you go girl :)

[@arnoldowens8487]

¹Good morning I hope everything everything OK haven't heard from you in a a security security today and I am not not if you are are of of but I I wanted wanted know know you you to to to get get raise To To off the the of the the people in the morning and and I q11 q11 q112q2121121 2122212112111 q1²q1 2122q2qq2q222qqq2q2q2q2qqqq2qq2qqq2qq2q2q2qq2q2q2q2q2qqq2qq2qqqqq2q2qq2q2q 222qq2q2q22qq2qq2q2q2q2qq22 q2q2q2qq2qq2q2q q222q22q2 q21 q121q2qqqq q q2 q2 q1212qq2q 2q q1122q22q2qqqq2q I q11qqqqq q112q2qqqqqqqq q22qqq2qqqqqqq2q2qqqqqqq2qqq2qqqq2q2qq2qq2qq2qqq2q2qqqqqqqqqqqqqq121qqqqqq q11q2q2qq2qqq2qqqqqqq2q2qqqqq2qqqqqqqqqqqqqq2qqqqq q2qqq q2qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq2qqqqqqq I q11qqqqq2qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq2qqqqqq2qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq2qqqqqqqq21qq2 q11qqqqqqqqqq q121qqqqqqqqqqq and q11qq q1 q11qqqqq q11qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq q11qqqq q11qqqq q11qqq q21qqqqq q11qq2q q11qq2qqqqqqqq2qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq2qqqq and q11qqqqqq q21q I q11qqqqqq q11qqq q q11qqq q11qqqqqqqq q11qqqq2q I q11qqqqqqqqqqqq q11qqqqqqqq q q21 I don't q1 q11qqqqqq2qqq2qqqqqq q11qqqqqq2qqq2qqqqqq q11qqqqqq2qqq2qqqqqq think q11q2qq q11qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq11qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq2qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq

[@lindamorgan2678]

You go girl !! Congratulations YOU fixed it. This video is excellent WAY excellent better than most

[@TheRancher03]

Thanks for showing us how to test solenoids. I had a solenoid problem too that was nothing more than the positive cable severed off from the solenoid. The cable is moved back and forth all the time when disconnecting and reconnecting the battery to the point that eventually one or two strands hold to the solenoid.

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m glad you figured it out!

[@valeriezelluk4095]

Thank you thank you thank you for posting this video!!!!!!!! After a week of trying to figure why my mower wouldnt start after I gave it a hosing.. it was the fuse!!!!!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Yes! I’m glad you found my video! I have a lot of other repair videos, so be sure to subscribe.

[@markweiss5152]

Thank you for showing how to test the switches. Most videos I had watched (10+) was about bypassing the switches, not fixing the problem.

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure!

[@furiousgently2960]

Thank you for all the info's It is by far One of the best diagnostic for electric system..

[@TightWadDIY]

Frank Arjmand Thank you, Frank. I'm glad you found it helpful.

[@c.w.johson2010]

Good video but it’s much faster if you first check the fuse then the starter then the solenoid. Then work your way through the safety switches. If you have power at the starter or the solenoid then you know the safety switches are good. It can save you the time and trouble of having to test each switch.

[@RichardBrister-ro3qs]

The solenoid locations are ridiculous and hard to deal with. Now I have to go recheck my ground. I have to disconnect and remove my battery just to get to it and have to reinstall everything just to TEST it. In 3 seasons, my solenoid has failed 3 times. Why couldn't it be something easy. Good video and good camera work. Thanks for the help.

[@TightWadDIY]

It’s definitely in a terrible location.

[@gilbertogarcia1477]

Everything you did perfect, but I did all that and nothing happens, my problem was the clutch spring break and don't allow me to press the safely switch.

[@TightWadDIY]

I hope you are able to get it working.

[@Old600Rusty]

The first thing I would test is if the solenoid it getting 12v when key is in start position, if yes, bad solenoid, if no safety switch

[@rockybasnayaka5289]

Hey mate on start my solonoid is getting 12v - but the problem is it's getting 12v to both wires. As one should be a negative it's not working - any insight on why this is I've checked all the switches battery and key switch all fine.

[@Old600Rusty]

​@@rockybasnayaka5289 Not sure what's going on there. I would disconnect the black wire from solenoid, then run a separate jumper wire from the now open tab on the solenoid to the negative terminal on battery. Then see if it starts. This is bypassing the saftey switches so do at your own risk. If it does not start try jumping the soleniod terminals with a screwdriver, if that starts it then the soleniod is bad and starter is good. Please let us know if it works. I'm betting it will.

[@rockybasnayaka5289]

@@Old600Rusty thanks for the reply mate. I've tried jumping the solenoid and it works when the kill wire if off the coil. I'll try what you've suggested with the black wire to buypass the safety switches. This mower is a swiss stiga. The worst mower I've ever had to work on. Can't find anything in English for this, can it be a control unit issue? This had a blown camshaft and I've tried jumping it a lot of times. Now the engine is all sorted but have the issue with starting as above.

[@gilbertogarcia1477]

And anyway your the only one that did a great video thanks for taking your time to explain it like a pro, thanks 👍

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@oscartmic]

Thank you for posting this. I tested everything but the solenoid and was just about to give up. Installed a new $14 solenoid and voila the grass gets mowed again! Big thumbs up!

[@TightWadDIY]

That’s great news!

[@yatesc9246]

Thank you! Great video. Watched several other videos, yours is the only one that helped....I had a bad solenoid. Keep the videos coming!

[@TightWadDIY]

Glad you were able to find the issue. Electrical issues can be the hardest to diagnose.

[@pcdubya]

Great video and to the point. I have a kubota zero turn, clicks and solenoid tested good, and will start if you make the solenoid connection with a wrench, but not turning the key?

[@TightWadDIY]

That is really odd. So you hear the solenoid click when you turn the key but the engine doesn’t turn over at all? Then when you jump the terminals on the solenoid it starts? If it didn’t click when you turned the key I would say it’s the key switch.

[@pcdubya]

@@TightWadDIY I was mistaken in that I did hear a click, but something else clicks when you turn the key , and was NOT the solenoid, tested the switch and that was it. The first 2 switch positions worked but not when you turned to crank. Replaced it, good to go, thanks for your pointers!

[@TightWadDIY]

@@pcdubya Great! I’m glad you got it working!

[@teddybrzeski]

video helped me thanks .i noticed that red wire attached to the cylinoid is not attached yo the cylinoid on my mower so that should be the problem .thanks

[@TightWadDIY]

Hopefully that gets you fixed up!

[@teddybrzeski]

@@TightWadDIY it did .the whole piece came out of the cylinoid i put it back " in " started right up

[@josevasquez8193]

Hello TightwaddyDIY: Your video helped me order a new solenoid. I removed old solenoid and now hoping that new solenoid gets my craftsman riding mower again !!

[@TightWadDIY]

Fingers crossed!

[@williamdavis9943]

Before you test any switch you need to know if it is N.O. normally opened or (N.C.) normally closed. a wiring diagram for your machine will tell you how the switch operates. Sometimes it's very difficult to find the correct wiring diagram because of age or in some cases it has been discontinued.

[@TightWadDIY]

William Davis It’s helpful to know but not a necessity in this case. As long as one side functions one way and the other side functions the opposite then you are good.

[@mikematthews916]

Thanks for your video series!!! New mowers are so expensive and then they sit out in the rain....Glad to restore an older mower

[@TightWadDIY]

Mike Matthews You are welcome. Thanks for commenting.

[@mo-reesespieces9066]

Thanks so much for the reply. unfortunately the battery cable was the very last thing I checked and you were spot on. IT was loose. However It did cut off again after I retightened it and for some reason the seat safety had an issue. I put a paper clip to tie the safety together just to see if that would fix the problem and it started right up. I will have to replace the seat safety. Thanks so much for putting out such a great video. It is always a great feeling when you don't have to lug your ride to some mechanic just to replace something as simple as what I had. At least in watching your video I had a more confident place to start then just wondering what to do. Thanks again. Peace, Reese

[@JosephRMooreMossyheadDude]

TightWad it was my starter solenoid and battery, a Big Thank You! i can now cut my grass, my nephew fixed it for me, i done some bartering on the labor.

[@TightWadDIY]

That is awesome! Thank you for sharing your success.

[@scottpettit1660]

Simplified & precise explanation for checking safety switches, solenoid for starting problems

[@TightWadDIY]

Scott Pettit Thank you. I try to make helpful no frills videos.

[@nosnosco1]

Thank you sir. Mower wasn't giving any heart beat at all. I thought it was electrical. And your video helped me a lot. It was a loose connection at the break switch.. Once again thank you a lot! Blessings!!

[@TightWadDIY]

Great! Glad you were able to find the issue!

[@thomasvalenskivalenski453]

Hey my neighbors john deere 286 27hp stopped during cut we found 1 broken coil wire right away. so he got a new coil and 2 new spark plugs i installed them figured we where good i tried starting it , it does turn over i checked gas from tank to carb ( it has a cam operated fuel pump im getting gas into cylinders and blowing it out the exhaust with no sound of spark we figured maybe the ignition module was bad so we replaced that also all saftys checked out because motor turns over just no spark ? Help it just rained and theres over 1 acre to mow im not feeling 22" of cut at a time 🙏 please any thing os helpful its an older tractor and a work horse when running and old jims pride&joy thanks.

[@j.cooper2246]

Been thru all this and still haven't figured out my problem. So annoyed test good Ignition switch test good PTO switch test good blade engagement switch test good I have 12 V to the left side of cylon oi'd no power at the starter. Fuse test good starter task good I believe I have a ground issue what do you think?

[@miguellomejoral1005]

Why is that I bought 4 switches all of them I made the test on the 4 terminals only button push down it has continuity but not with button up ! Why is that???? It supposedly one side button push down= continuity Other side button out = continuity too !!!

[@yeyod.santos3545]

Hi good videos I have a cub cadet model 17brcaca009, when I start it start but when the blade start working cutting for five minute slow down and turn it off , then I start again it start bit do the same thing, any idea what wrong with it

[@ChrisRI1000]

Nice video and thorough. I had the same problem, not even a clicking sound. Turned out to be a kill switch. You saved me a lot of money with this. Thank you!

[@TightWadDIY]

I'm glad you found the video helpful. I love saving money but it is even better when I help others save money too!

[@ChrisRI1000]

+TightWadRepairs It is a 20+ year old mower but still kicking. Also learned to do a carburetor rebuild to keep it going a few years ago. I love KZbin... even learned to replace the igniter in our gas oven.

[@tiggwolf1]

Can't thank you enough...... After going thru the steps mine was the switch under the brake. After putting new blades and belt on' my girlfriend some how cocked it sideways while helping me. Again....thanks

[@TightWadDIY]

You are very welcome. I'm happy to hear the video was helpful. Be sure to subscribe so you can find me again if you have other issues.

[@frankdavidson9675]

there is an easyer way to check solenoid when you turn key to startmak sure brake pedal is down should aleast get a click if solenoidis bad to prove this short out 2 big lugs on the solenoid should spin starter if battery is good replace solenoid the short took the place of key switch so that put the tble in the solenoid

[@andrewjones3706]

How do you bypass all those safety switchs from the key ign. Switch?

[@CavvyStudios]

Awesome video. I've been checking out videos on this topic and this is the clearest, most concise step by step one I've seen yet. By the way... it's a solenoid, not a sillynoid, silly!

[@TightWadDIY]

Brian Thanks. I am a teacher by trade so I do my best to give clear instructions. It’s a sillynoid in the south!

[@paulshort1174]

Great video and well explained, I’ve got a newer model, same principle, my problem is intermittent sometimes turns over then won’t, I will follow your advice and post what I find, happy mowing all !

[@TightWadDIY]

Glad it helped.

[@codygossett628]

So helpful thank you

[@TightWadDIY]

Glad it was helpful!

[@philliphall5198]

Thank You so very very much for this information and trouble shooting skills of a great mechanic Merry Christmas

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure!

[@palorodriguez8121]

Good video. Thank U.

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure.

[@lousvrcorner8977]

Thank you and well done video of walking thru the electrical safety switches and solenoid for troubleshooting.

[@TightWadDIY]

Luis Ferrans You are welcome, Luis. Thank you for the kind comment. Be sure to subscribe and hit that thumbs up!

[@ricardoramirez5705]

Yes

[@brianvetter]

My tractor is drivin me nuts! Jon deer sabre 38inch ct with 15.5 hp brigs .ahhhh! K .i followed a video on bypassing all the safety switches snip the line which on mine its the purple one. .cut it bout 2 ft down re splice it to the same wire at the ignition. Boom! Simple! It worked flawlessly for bout a hour .now? My tractor start up for a min. Mabe 2 then just dies out .??? I cant figure out whats the matter?something so simple is drivin me bonkers!! Any idea please?

[@TightWadDIY]

That sounds like something is overheating unless you have a fuel issue. Does it sputter and die or just cut off instantly?

[@timweb1510]

I’m having trouble with a repair man 😐, god I failed

[@tommyandtammy1]

Thanks and God bless.

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure!

[@bulkvanderhuge9006]

For my MTD, the problem was with the Brake Switch, the Plastic Plunger was bending to the side of the piece of metal that pushes it down, so it was never getting closed.

[@TightWadDIY]

Yes, sometimes the parts just wear out and you need to MacGyver them.

[@davidsteinfeld9123]

Indeed I found some very useful information here I once upon a time heard it said information is hard to find I do think it to be true How ever it is again in the search and how badly an individual wants to learn the answer Been fighting with stuff someone else did And trying to get it back to right Always the same thing with a used anything Now I am neither satisfied yet to say I have the answer but I can say I know it's closer to the point Yep to many things can cause a no start like in cars although very different With what I learned here should be able to get back out there and cut some grass Thank you for shareing

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure.

[@geneballay9590]

I have spent the past week trying to figure out what is wrong with my MTD. Bought a new ignition switch, but no help. You video has given me a very good, systematic way of trouble-shooting the problem. Thank you for posting.

[@TightWadDIY]

Gene Ballay You are welcome. The electrical issues are the most frustrating. Be sure to subscribe. I have several videos for this mower.

[@mrdean7206]

Thank you for your great video, fixed my problem brake switch.

[@TightWadDIY]

dean brossy I’m glad you were able to get it fixed! I have several other videos for this same mower. Be sure to subscribe.

[@SuperLuis1944]

Thanks!

[@TightWadDIY]

Thank you so much!

[@SuperLuis1944]

Thanks!

[@TightWadDIY]

My pleasure. Thank you!

[@chuckr8727]

If the light is on, wouldn't the fuse be good? Not sure myself if the lights are wired through the fuse.

[@TightWadDIY]

Not necessarily.

[@bulkvanderhuge9006]

For the seat switch, I just slipped a thing piece of cardboard, like a playing card thickness in between the leaves of the switch to bypass it.

[@TightWadDIY]

Nice work

[@ArMoUrEdGhOsT]

I put a new Solonoid in when I turn the key I’m getting a clicking noise but still not starting I keep getting sparks from where it’s grounded would that be a bad ground connection this is on a mtd j116 model

[@TightWadDIY]

Yes. Check the ground. Maybe add a new connector.

[@sonofthunder.]

thanks ,my husqvarna 46,had a no start,I've replaced various things,but this was great use if continuity tester,my battery is good,...lights are independent of keyswitch,anyhow I moved it and it started working again,could be parking switch,anyhow feeling confident, I've set the air gap on magnetos,adjusted choke,and it starts easier,dad was so good with a meter ,now it's my turn to learn, I know theres lots of variations ,and a few similarities,I subbed to your channel,

[@TightWadDIY]

Mark Bidwell It sounds like you had a great person to learn from!

[@LisaJohnson1967]

Well maybe this is where I need to start...pardon the pun. My mower will start, at first, run for about 10 mins, then start surging & die. Replaced fuel filter. Same thing. Replaced vacuum hose between fuel pump & ...going blank. Anyway, did that. Same thing. So once it dies, it won't start again. Not right away. No click, no nothing when I turn the key. If I wait 10 mins or so, it will start, run a few minutes, then it's lather, rinse, repeat. I'm a 57 yr old female disabled vet on a fixed income, so I always try to fix things myself, cuz having someone else do it (repair shop) is 'spensive! And the only thing I'm scared of is electricity. Like I don't want to be anywhere near where someone says it's hot, live, or energized. But I'm working through it. Switched out ceiling fans, replaced light switched & plug-ins, etc. So I want to thank you for the step by step, SAFE & easy way to go through the testing process video!! I'll be nervous, but I'll get through it. The Lord always has His protection around me. So bless you for helping! 🙏🙌

[@TightWadDIY]

It could be your ignition coil. Here is a video explaining: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ip2qnqGpZt1ggcUsi=8no5mRaMjw18fLHA

[@LisaJohnson1967]

@@TightWadDIY Oh, thank you! I'll watch that. I appreciate the suggestion & link very much!!

[@y2knole]

great tutorial. I went thru all the switches on mine, then removed and tested the solenoid exactly as your video showed. it clicked but not consistently. I filed the corrosion off of the post, put it all back together and it fired first try. Thanks!

[@TightWadDIY]

y2knole That is awesome! I’m glad you were able to get it fixed. Be sure to subscribe!

[@1223superman]

I changed solenoid but it still just clicks and the engine doesn’t turn over. What else could it possibly be? Starter ?

[@TightWadDIY]

It could be but not definitely.

[@josevasquez8193]

can you provide a link on where to order a solenoid ?

[@rogersaunders231]

Ok, so what do you do when all the switches, battery, fuse, and ignition switch is good, but still doesn't get power to the solenoid?

[@TightWadDIY]

Sorry man. I’m really not sure.

[@burtburt1755]

Thank you for showing us the switches and how to test them. I just changed the same solenoid on my neighbor's mower. Her Daddy's friend took it off 2 weeks ago and didn't come back. I learned how to put it back properly.

[@TightWadDIY]

Burt Burt That’s great! I’m glad you were able to get it fixed.

[@NTSRFR4]

👍

[@eyesalooking]

6 years later and your video is still helping people. I am repairing a Zero Turn Toro mower that is a no crank no start. I suspect the starter but will go through and check all of the safety switches using my multimeter first so I don't become a part changer. I hope it is not the starter because it is a pain to get to. I have replaced one before and it was almost impossible. It has the solenoid attached to the starter. I am going to try hitting it gently at first to see if it is stuck.

[@TightWadDIY]

I’m glad the video is still helping people out! Check the solenoid too.

[@WiPri0371]

I had changed the solenoid on my Craftsman less than 3 years ago. I think it may be time to change it again. I avoided it and went for all the switches (well nearly, I forgot the brake switch) for what I would consider the usual self talk "I just changed that thing not too long ago". But I'm thinking it is the solenoid for 2 reasons : 1) The battery is completely charged (12.8V), and 2) I'm not getting a click when I try to start. If the brake switch and solenoid are not the problem, then it's the wiring (the thing is almost 30 yo). And I'd just as soon take a flamethrower to it as to track down every inch of wiring. I may as well rewire it at that point; If one has gone, the others won't be far behind.

[@TightWadDIY]

Did you check the fuse between the battery and solenoid?

[@WiPri0371]

@TightWadDIY Yes. It was good. Actually, I tried starting it yesterday on a whim & it started. Now I'm thinking it might be the ignition coils (gets hot then won't start if shut off), but it had to sit for over 24hrs.

[@grahamstewart6121]

Great video, my kill switch on foot brake had come loose. Thanks

[@TightWadDIY]

Graham Stewart You are welcome! I’m glad you were able to find and fix the issue.

[@georgebeauchamp1690]

Thank you for having a video explaining all these steps. It was hard finding a video to troubleshoot the sensors

[@TightWadDIY]

George beauchamp You are welcome. I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@garyhonaker2242]

My clutch runs when I start my mower and when I engage the pro switch the motor dies

[@TightWadDIY]

What do you mean your clutch runs?

[@MrsBuddevil]

What size fuse is that. Mine has a green

[@fangorn1000]

Excellent video.Thank you for sharing.

[@TightWadDIY]

Human angel You are welcome. Let us know what ends up being your problem.

[@paulc1101]

This tractor has diagnostic center on dash +electric switch to raise +lower mower

[@TightWadDIY]

No. It doesn’t have a switch to raise and lower.

[@mo-reesespieces9066]

1996 Toro Wheel Horse 265-H.Mower started fine. Pulled it off the pavement onto the thick grass. Lifted up the PTO to start the blades and the mower just cut off.I tried to start it again, I pushed the PTO back in, made sure the brake was on, turned the key off, pulled it out, put it back in, while sitting on the seat, and never got off of the seat at any time during this.I tried to start it. I got nothing. Mower will not start at all. No clicks, ticks, nothing as if I am not even turning the key. Lights will not come on when the key is turned and did prior.This happened once before, think it was a fuse or switch but do not know what to check, and cost me a lot to have someone else fix it. I would like to fix this myself. I keep the mower on a battery tender Jr. all the time and the battery was fully charged. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated ? Peace, Mo [e-mail]

[@TightWadDIY]

It sounds like you have a blown fuse or loose battery cable. Check to make sure both battery cables are tight at the terminal then follow them and check that they are secure on the other end. Next, follow the red battery cable from the battery terminal and you should find the fuse. If you don't have a tester just replace it because they are cheap. Let me know if neither of these things fix it.

[@mo-reesespieces9066]

+TightWadRepairs Thanks so much for the reply. unfortunately the battery cable was the very last thing I checked and you were spot on. IT was loose. However It did cut off again after I retightened it and for some reason the seat safety had an issue. I put a paper clip to tie the safety together just to see if that would fix the problem and it started right up. I will have to replace the seat safety. Thanks so much for putting out such a great video. It is always a great feeling when you don't have to lug your ride to some mechanic just to replace something as simple as what I had. At least in watching your video I had a more confident place to start then just wondering what to do. Thanks again.  Peace, Reese/Mo

[@frankcloskey7789]

Excellent Trouble shooting.5/21 2021

[@TightWadDIY]

Thanks! Hopefully you are able to get your issue solved.

[@gregorybaldwin7039]

PLEASE CONTINUE POSTING STEP BY STEP VIDEOS. I'm having an issue with my old school rear engine, Snapper SR riding mover. The issue is when turning the motor with my hands, it only goes so far and stop. When I attempt to start it, it stops at the same position that I was turning it with my hands. I'm thinking that the chuck key on it is out of line. If you could share your opinion, I would greatly appreciate it, or email me at [e-mail].

[@brentzazueta6081]

This was very helpful but could you please do a video more in depth of the wiring going to the solenoid. I have a loose green wire that I believe going with the ground but I'm not too sure where it goes.thanks

[@TightWadDIY]

How many posts does your solenoid have?

[@brentzazueta6081]

@@TightWadDIY it's a 4 post. Looks like the same make and model of mower as your.

[@shainetower398]

great job making this video

[@TightWadDIY]

Why thank you!

[@pim3fifty]

I rarely commnent on videos, but you have saved my sanity. Turns out the solenoid kan be installed the wrong way. Thank you!

[@TightWadDIY]

Thorbjørn I really appreciate you taking time to comment and I’m always happy to help. I several mower repair videos so you should subscribe.

[@LnStar492]

I don't understand how the solenoid can be installed the wrong way! You can put the large red wires on either of the large bolts//studs and the smaller wires on either of the other two contacts.

[@redrockgsd]

Okay I just did the solenoid thing change too and it still doesn't work what should I check next?

[@TightWadDIY]

What are your symptoms?

[@redrockgsd]

@@TightWadDIY it won't start. I put in a new battery and just did the solinoid thing and nothing happens when I turn the key

[@frankdavidson9675]

you dont have to remove solenoid to test it as you turn switch key to start with brake pedal down it sends 12 v to small post on solenoid this operates a magnet in side solenoid causing two big post to short inside solenoid this sends 12v and high amperage to starter to make it spin--------- you can bypass key and brake pedal by shorting 2 big posts on solenoid the few sparks dont hurt any thing on the post if stater spins it tells you battery and starter is good

[@mikedepaepe]

john deere lt 155 riding mower deck is not turning on when I flip the lever up i already replaced the switch under the dash please help thank you

[@TightWadDIY]

michael depaepe Did you recently work on your belts? The PTO lever engages a tension pulley which makes the blades engage. Check the tension pulley to make sure the spring is still attached.

[@mikedepaepe]

my wife was using it one day and it just stopped working I have not touched the deck

[@TightWadDIY]

michael depaepe The spring may have broken. Locate the tension pulley (it moves side to side) and make sure there is a spring attached.

[@mikedepaepe]

hey thanks for all your info thanks again

[@garciajr4413]

Amillion likes,thanks for your video

[@TightWadDIY]

I am glad it helped you. Thanks!

[@framcesmoore]

ha what would happen if u removed the yellow wire from the switch would that kll all the safty switched so the mover would start thanks

[@samaurai77]

Thanks for the video.I have a John Deere Sabre that will not start. I have replaced the starter switch and solenoid. Checked all for continuity and every part seems to be fine. I replaced the fuse. Still nothing when I turn the key. I have jump started it but when I take my foot off the brake it stalls. What have I missed or done wrong?

[@Young937phoenix]

Just cut all the safety switches out. Once u do that u will have your magneto wire which mines yellow coming from key switch and u have to hook that to the black kill wire coming off the coil which usually runs down to a connector and turns into the same color wire on other side of the connector

[@mrgruffy4499]

After 3 days, I finally got the starter motor to engage. The problem was not enough ground (neg). The black cable from battery to the frame was dirty and corroded where it fastens to the frame. The lock washer was between the frame and cable, instead of on top of the cable end and under the nut. Woopy! Now I get no fire to the plug. At the switch, the red/white from the battery connects to the lights, but doesn't connect to Ign when I turn the key to Ign. Connection is only from red/white wire to a red wire, no other wire. I'm not sure where the red wire goes. To Ign coil? The seat being down with my weight on it would not affect the connections inside the switch. No wires to kill switch under the seat.

[@mikeprice1816]

Cut them switches off and throw em in the creek

[@TightWadDIY]

You can’t bypass some of them.

[@wallyallyn5473]

Don't get me wrong it was a very informative video on how to troubleshoot so thank you very much but I just wanted to point out the safety issue also!!!

[@mrdeanv4414]

Thanks so much for getting back with me.. Ok this is what I did... I ran a wire from the hot side of the solenoid to little wire on the solenoid and it turned over..so now I know it's not the solenoid.. next I did the same thing but I turned the key to the run position and pulled down on the break engaging the killswitch and it started.. so now I know it's not the solenoid or the killswitch to the break..I'm thinking either a broke wire or the ignition switch is out...

[@williambecker7405]

Great video

[@TightWadDIY]

william becker I’m glad you found it helpful. Be sure to subscribe.

[@walterhill12]

my Craftsman mower 917 when you let me clutch out it dies could it be the clutch safety switch

[@robertjahrling1877]

Tightwad!!! Tightwad!!!!! How does he know LMAO 🤣

[@tjh3326]

Thanks Man you Help me Out I needed this Video..

[@TightWadDIY]

Timothy Harden Glad I was able to help.

[@mountainman5025]

low blinker fluid,,,

[@suzukigsxr5548]

It's on of the best infos..thank u so much..

[@TightWadDIY]

suzuki gsxr You are welcome. I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@muralcook4419]

one of the best videos for diagnosing the safety switches I've seen!

[@TightWadDIY]

Mural Cook I’m glad you found it helpful. Be sure to subscribe.

[@s9000x]

This was great, I have this issue with my mower and your Video was quick and to the point. I think it is the PTO switch for the blade you showed first. Funny a lawnmower repair place to me that has nothing to do with it, it just stops the motor. Thanks

[@TightWadDIY]

Hope you can get yours fixed!

[@ronpettigrew2149]

I have a new battery on mine a new solenoid a new starter and all it does is Click when I go to start it what could the problem be

[@TightWadDIY]

Ron Pettigrew If you hear the click, it sounds like an issue with the starter. The click you hear is solenoid so the safety switches, battery, fuse, and solenoid should be good. Test for voltage at the starter.

[@ronpettigrew2149]

@@TightWadDIY it is a brand new starter

[@ronpettigrew2149]

I can have my job box to it doesn't do anything it just Sparks

[@sydneycurry7338]

i have a scott riding mower and when i put a new battery on it will start with no problem but a week later in wont do anything like something is killing the battery. So after i get the battery charged back up it starts up so what could be my issue

[@TightWadDIY]

Sydney Curry Interesting. My first thought is that you aren't turning the key all of the way off or something like tractor lights are sucking power from the battery. Try removing the key and see if it helps. Does your tractor have lights?

[@sydneycurry7338]

no when im done i always take the key out and yes it has lights

[@sydneycurry7338]

when it wont start i will jump it off and it still wont start

[@TightWadDIY]

Sydney Curry I'm not sure on this one. I would disconnect the lights first to rule them out. You don't likely use them anyway. Check out wiring connections to make sure everything is tight.

[@TightWadDIY]

Sydney Curry Have you tested the alternator? This is the part that charges your battery while the mower is running.

[@DeniseSlack]

I’d love to be able to send u pics/video of my issue to maybe help figure out what my issue is! Please reply...

[@TightWadDIY]

Do you have Instagram?

[@DeniseSlack]

@@TightWadDIY yes,I do

[@TightWadDIY]

@@DeniseSlack send me a pic or video there. @TightwadDIY

[@DeniseSlack]

@@TightWadDIY I found u on Instagram,I sent you a message and pics there

[@lesstime1678]

best machine i ever see ,,, this machine can tell you if a fuse is open ,,,Amazing machine ,,,and tell if a battery have 12 v ,, i can'not believe a machine that size have so much brain's ,,,and you too to operating this machine ,,, Amazing man,,,,,

[@TightWadDIY]

less time Thank you!

[@hrl930]

hey. my mower is starting but blade will not start. any idea what's wrong

[@TightWadDIY]

Heng Lu That would most likely mean something is wrong with your PTO switch or relay. I would start by locating and testing the switch.

[@hrl930]

TightWadRepairs hi, I checked the PTO switch you showed on this video. it is fine. where are other stuff I need to check? it was fine last week. I disassembled the deck for sharpen the blade. and now put everything back and fine blades are not moving when engage the PTO

[@TightWadDIY]

Heng Lu Did you check to see if the pulley that drives the deck belt spins? You may have the belt on wrong.

[@hrl930]

TightWadRepairs manually checked both blades are spinning. is there anything else I may did wrong?

[@TightWadDIY]

Heng Lu There is a tension pulley that should move when you engage the PTO. It moves to tighten the belt which makes the belt spin and spins the blades. If the tension pulley doesn't move, there is something wrong with it. There should be a spring on it attached to a tensioner. If that isn't moving at all, you need to check the relay for the PTO.

[@freaknleak69]

Set your meter to continuity and it will beep if the fuse is good.

[@armando27gonzalez]

Tanks mi amigo 👍👍👍👍👍

[@TightWadDIY]

De nada! Gracias por comentar.

[@daniellemus3142]

Good morning. My problem with my lawn mower is when I turn off my yellow fuse is burn. I hope you have the answer for this problem. Thank you

[@TightWadDIY]

If the fuse is blowing, there is a short. Try cleaning and tightening the battery cables.