L3130D FST cranks but no start

Reddsta

New member

Equipment
Kubota L3130
Dec 26, 2023
5
1
3
US
Greetings...

I noticed that a couple of times the tractor was hard to start which is very unusual. I fiddled around with the shift lever in neutral did not seem to help...but it would generally start and run after two or three attempts.

Additionally I noticed that the typical and noticeable "click" that I would hear when I would turn on the key...was intermittent...with start attempts where there was no click at all.

It cranks fine and all electrical seems to be working...I checked the fuse panel by the clutch pedal...no bad fuses...it just cranks and does not start. Fuel level is nearly full...seat sensor is by-passed. It is really an issue that began in only the last 5-6 times I have started it.

I have read and re-read the forums concerning this issue and have some idea what it might be...however I wondering where I should start in my troubleshooting?

Any advice would be helpful...thank you in advance.

Thomas
 

Fedup

Active member
Apr 6, 2016
270
88
28
Winchester
I can't help thinking your tractor has an electric fuel shut off solenoid on the front of the timing cover. They usually make a pretty distinct "click" when the key is turned on and power is applied. Turn the key on and off a few times and listen for that click. If it's not happening, then investigate the solenoid. It's either not working or there is no power being applied with the key on. It may have only two wires, but may also have three. Find the solenoid and go from there.
 

Reddsta

New member

Equipment
Kubota L3130
Dec 26, 2023
5
1
3
US
I can't help thinking your tractor has an electric fuel shut off solenoid on the front of the timing cover. They usually make a pretty distinct "click" when the key is turned on and power is applied. Turn the key on and off a few times and listen for that click. If it's not happening, then investigate the solenoid. It's either not working or there is no power being applied with the key on. It may have only two wires, but may also have three. Find the solenoid and go from there.
Greetings "Fedup"...and thank you for your response.

So I set out to do as you suggested which was in line with my thinking to a large degree. We got the tractor into the shop and under the lights for a closer inspection. I identified the "electric fuel shut off solenoid" and began to make a plan to address the issue the next day...that's because my brother and I were having a beer right then.

We all know how cold beer spawns greatness...right? So I turned on the key...no solenoid "click" at all...tried it a couple of times...nothing. So with key turned "on" but not actually trying to start the tractor...I decide to turn on the flashers, head lights and blinkers. As I was doing this...there was a point where the the "electric fuel shut off solenoid" just started "clicking" on and off randomly.

So intuitively...I tried to start the tractor...it started right up...over the next 10 minutes all of this was happening and it started up at least 6-8 time no problem. Just like before...the "electric fuel shut off solenoid" went right back to not "clicking" and the tractor not starting? So that is where I am at...

Thinking short or ground issue at this point...have you or anyone encountered this challenge before?

Again thanks for your assistance I appreciate it.

Redd...:)
 

Fedup

Active member
Apr 6, 2016
270
88
28
Winchester
Wiring problems are always a challenge. At one time all you had was a switch, (maybe) a fuse, and a few feet of wire. Now it's miles of wire, relays, diodes, often multiple switches, and then some. Often the wiring diagrams can be more confusing than the problems.
 

Reddsta

New member

Equipment
Kubota L3130
Dec 26, 2023
5
1
3
US
Hi Fedup...

You are right...

I did verify that there is no voltage to the electric fuel shut off solenoid. So...I am searching for a forum that has gone through the troubleshooting of this issue from there back? If you or anyone could point me to that I would appreciate it.

Equally helpful would be if someone who has done this can point me in the right direction.

Redd...:)