M5400 won’t start

[Maine Kurby]

Hi all, just replaced battery on my M540. Battery was old, tractor had to be jumped to start.

with the new battery in Ive been unable to even jump the tractor. Nothing happens when I turn the key. If I turn the hazards on though there’s a distinct clicking noise.

I checked the voltage on the battery, it’s charged and north of 12v. Any ideas what the issue could be or what I should check first? Thanks!

 

[BigG]

If nothing else was changed except the battery, double check the battery cables. Remove the end of the ground cable and clean the contact areas. Also look for corrosion in the cable itself.

 

[Roadworthy]

After you've ensured battery posts and wire terminals are clean check the chassis end of the ground cable. It should be clean and tight. From there have the battery load tested. It is possible for a battery to show voltage indicating a full charge but have so much internal resistance it can't provide current.

 

[JohnDB]

Checked the polarity?

 

[Dave_eng]

Do you have replacement battery cable ends? These are bad news and new cables should be installed.

This would be a good time to learn to jump a starter. Extreme caution must be used as you can end up getting run over with your own tractor or having a run-a-way machine. Best to have someone in the seat with the brakes applied.

Jumping the starter is the best test to ensure the starter and battery/cables are good. Use a screwdriver or short piece of wire. Expect a small spark. The engine should crank instantly if the battery and cables are OK.

Dave

 

[wildwolfproducts]

Tap on the starter and it will start. Well if thats the issue it will start. My M4700 has done this a few times over the years.