Starting problem with B7800 TLB

[Roger2003]

I've had ongoing starting issues with my B7800. Around 2021 to 2023, the slow blow fuse failed a few times.
May 2022: dealer replaced the starter and fuse
June 2022: dealer found chewed wires and repaired them, replaced fuse
Feb. 2023: installed new battery, still had a fail-to-start issue
March 2023: installed new controller and stop solenoid. I was told that the absence of a clicking sound when starting probably means a bad solenoid.
Since then, there are still starting issues. It may take 3 or 4 attempts to start. The sounds during start-up vary a little over time. I would say that the sounds remind me of something wearing out and about to fail.
A week or so ago, the tractor failed to start. No clicking noise during attempted start-up. I left it alone for a while and tried again. After a few attempts it started. I'm speculating that the solenoid is the problem.
It seems that the mechanic's approach is to test start the tractor during the day. If it starts up every time (as they say it has), nothing more is done. Checking out the battery, solenoid, starter, ignition switch, safety switches, etc. apparently won't be done unless the tractor won't start.
I understand the frustration with intermittent electrical issues, but I need a reliable tractor. What else can be done? Thanks for your ideas.

 

[Hugo Habicht]

Hi Roger,

in fairness, an intermittant electrical fault can be a nightmare for a mechanic or an electrician to find.

But no point speculating, guessing and replacing one part at a time adding up to substantial sums eventually. Diagnose the problem, then replace the faulty part.

One possible and simple approach to this would be to wire up small 12V test bulbs to one or various points in the starter or run/stop solenoid circuit or connect a voltmeter at the starter. So you see immediately what is wrong when you try to start it. You attach bulbs from the switch to a few points to the starter and when it fails you should see where the voltage goes missing.

Check for more chewed wires and often it is safety switches (park brake, PTO, seat ...) and associated wiring that are the problem. Not sure if your B7800 has those.

Also ground wires are often overlooked, they are as important as the plus wires. Check for corrosion at ground connection.

Kind regards,
Hugo

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

First clarify:
Is it cranking but not firing?
Or is it not cranking?

If it's not cranking:

Pull both battery cables and check them and the connections on either end.

Have the battery load tested.

If it's cranking:

check that the stop solenoid is operating as it's supposed to.

 

[Roger2003]

Thanks very much for your responses. If I find a solution, I'll post it. Thanks!

 

[Henro]

Two things will likely help you get the help you need/want.

One is to supply as much detail as you can. Exactly as you can. The written word sometimes does not convey enough detail without some effort.

The second is perhaps an estimate of you comfort troubleshooting problems that may be electrical/mechanical. This will help people target their replies more accurately possibly.

Also, what test equipment you have on hand, such as a volt meter. And if you are comfortable using it and interpreting the measurements.

Just a couple suggestions for what that's worth....

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Thanks very much for your responses. If I find a solution, I'll post it. Thanks!

Not answering questions doesn't make it easy to help you out.
Well good luck to you.