M5400 won’t start

Maine Kurby

New member

Equipment
M5400
May 24, 2020
6
1
3
Maine
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

Well-known member

Equipment
l2501, FEL, BB, Rotary cutter, rake,spreader, roller, etc. New Holland TL80 A
Sep 14, 2018
1,951
773
113
West Central,FL
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

Well-known member
Lifetime Member

Equipment
L2501 HST
Aug 17, 2019
1,647
528
113
Benton City, WA
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.
 

Dave_eng

Well-known member
Lifetime Member

Equipment
M7040, Nuffield 465
Oct 6, 2012
5,256
1,042
113
Williamstown Ontario Canada
Do you have replacement battery cable ends? These are bad news and new cables should be installed.

forum battery repair.jpg



Starter jump.jpg





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