how to test a lawn tractor starter

A lawn tractor is a valuable piece of equipment for keeping your lawn neat and tidy. It is an investment that you want to last for several years, and you can keep your lawn tractor running smoothly by checking and maintaining different parts of the machine. One of the critical components that need regular checks is the starter. A starter is what kick-starts the engine whenever you need to mow your lawn. A faulty starter can cause a lot of frustration and bring your gardening activities to a halt. Here are some simple steps to help you test your lawn tractor starter and save you from repairs or replacements.

Step 1: Safety Precautions

Before diving in, it's crucial to ensure that you observe all the necessary safety precautions. You don't want to expose yourself to any risk of injury when testing the starter. Start by switching off the lawn tractor and disconnecting the battery cable. Remember to wear protective gloves and eye goggles to prevent any harm to your hands and eyes.

Step 2: Checking the Battery

The first thing to check when testing the starter is the battery. Start by cleaning the battery terminals using a wire brush and removing any dirt or debris that may have accrued on the surface. Check the battery voltage using a multimeter to ensure that there's enough power to start the engine. If you find that the voltage is too low, consider recharging the battery. You can also confirm this by trying to start the engine. If the battery is dying, the starter won't turn over, but the lights will come on.

Step 3: Inspecting the Starter Gear

If the battery is not the problem, then the starter gear might be the culprit. To test it, remove the starter from the lawn tractor and check if the gear is worn out or damaged in any way. If the gear is healthy, then the issue might be with the starter solenoid. You can test it using a multimeter to check for continuity on the terminals.

Step 4: Cleaning and Reinstalling

If you find that the starter gear or solenoid is problematic, clean and reinstall them. Ensure that you clean all the dirt or mud that may have accumulated under the starter and check if the contacts are secure. You can also lubricate the gears to prevent any future problem. After cleaning and reinstalling the starter, reconnect the battery cable.

Conclusion

Testing your lawn tractor starter is a straightforward process that you don't need any technical expertise to undertake. With the steps above, you can save yourself the trouble of going to a mechanic and avoid unnecessary repairs or replacements. Remember to observe all the required safety measures before jumping in and also, take regular maintenance checks of your lawn tractor. Test your lawn tractor's starter at least once every six months to keep your machine running smoothly and your yard well-kept.