zd28 starting issue

[Debaglio]

Ok, well, tried to figure this out for a while. When i turn the key, get all lights and most times it starts. Occasionally, I just get clicks, sometimes I get nothing. I have figured out that if i cross the solenoid starter spins and them the mower starts right up. I had replaced the solenoid last spring, and everything seemed good. Until this year. Battery is good. So is it the switch or do you think the starter has a dead spot. Any help is appreciated. Oh, safety switches seem to be ok.

 

[Bee-Positive]

Start with the basics...

Disconnect the battery ground from the frame, clean and reconnect.

Measure the voltage at the starter when trying to start it, may need long leads or a helper.

The battery is good...how did you determine that. How old is the battery?
Batteries can read 12V when measured with a multi-meter at the battery but when put under load (starter clicks) the actual voltage to the starter may be 2 - 3V. Get a cheap battery load tester form HF or take your battery and have it load tested.

You can get the Workshop Manual here with the electrical diagram. Trace the voltage through the system starting at the battery until you find where it's not.

 

[Debaglio]

Well, bought a new starter and it is amazing how much faster it turns over. Hopefully, that has fixed the problem.

 

[davemskinner]

Ok, well, tried to figure this out for a while. When i turn the key, get all lights and most times it starts. Occasionally, I just get clicks, sometimes I get nothing. I have figured out that if i cross the solenoid starter spins and them the mower starts right up. I had replaced the solenoid last spring, and everything seemed good. Until this year. Battery is good. So is it the switch or do you think the starter has a dead spot. Any help is appreciated. Oh, safety switches seem to be ok.

I have had the same problem on both of my ZD28s. I installed a 12vdc relay so that the contacts of the relay activate the solenoid. The coil is activated by the starting circuit. All I did was lift the wire to the solenoid and connect it to the coil of the relay. Ground the other side of the coil. Take a hot wire to one side of the N/O contacts and the other side to the solenoid. I never had another issue on either machine and it's been years.