how to check a solenoid on a lawn tractor

Lawn tractors are heavy duty lawn mowers used for commercial and residential landscaping. These machines are equipped with a solenoid to regulate the electrical components of the system. For instance, when you turn the ignition key, the solenoid jumps into action to activate the starter motor and kickstart the engine. Therefore, it is essential to check the solenoid on a lawn tractor regularly to ensure smooth functioning. In this article, we’ll guide you on how you can check a solenoid on a lawn tractor.

Tools Required

To check a solenoid on a lawn tractor, you'll need a multimeter, a set of screwdrivers, a pair of pliers or tweezers, and safety gloves and goggles. Safety should always be a priority when working with electrical equipment.

Detecting Electrical Issues

Before getting into specific solenoid tests, you should do a general check for electrical problems with your lawn tractor. Start by testing the battery with a multimeter to measure its voltage. You should then check the wiring and connections between the battery and the solenoid. Inspect other circuits and check for any breaks, damage or wear. If there are any problems in these areas, they could be the cause of solenoid failure.

Testing the Solenoid

Start by locating the solenoid on your lawn tractor. It is usually located near the carburetor or under the engine compartment near the battery. Once you've found it, disconnect any wiring connected to the solenoid itself and remove the solenoid from the engine. Use a set of screwdrivers to loosen the bolts and remove the solenoid. Ensure that you note exactly which wiring goes where to make reassembly easier later on.Now, take the multimeter and set it to the continuity mode. Ensure that the multimeter is working and the battery has enough voltage. You should then connect the red probe to the primary terminal of the solenoid and the black probe to the solenoid's metal casing, also known as the housing. Once done, activate the solenoid by turning on the ignition key. If you hear a click sound from the solenoid, then it is functional. If not, it means that the solenoid is defective as the circuit isn't complete.

Checking Resistance

One final test you can perform on the solenoid is checking resistance. To check this, set your multimeter to resistance mode and connect the red and black probes to the solenoid's two primary terminals. If you read a resistance figure above 4 ohms, it indicates that the solenoid is weak or defective. On the other hand, a reading of 0.4 ohms or less means that the solenoid is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Checking a solenoid on a lawn tractor isn't complex, but it does require attention to detail to avoid any injury. Remember to put on safety gloves and goggles, use the right tools, and follow these steps accordingly. By performing a simple solenoid test, you can secure the smooth functioning of your lawn tractor and extend its lifespan.