wire fire

Tonight we got on a job only to find the machine that ran fine 2 days ago will not start.I quickly made way to the closest parts store and had the battery checked,as well as,giving all wires a good visual.
The battery was perfect and we were able to start the machine by crossing the posts on the solenoid.So the next step was to purchase a new ignition switch.
In a hurry to install the switch and get back on the job I forgot to unhook the battery and burned a wire running from the switch to the solenoid.Lots of pretty white smoke and that wonderful cooked wire smell filled the air.
So now my question......Can I just cut out the 1 wire and replace?
Or..............Do I need to replace the entire harness from the switch to the solenoid?
I'm still not 100% positive it's the switch.I had to reschedule the work and may have to reschedule some fleet work this weekend if I don't get this fixed quick.

2 things I learned from this
1. Always,Always remember to unhook the battery before working on the machine.
2.Always,Always, and I do mean Always make sure the machine starts before leaving the house.

I bet its your solenoid. About the wires I would replace all. If not, you know what will happen.

Matt

What he said...

Russ is there a way to check this stuff with an ohm meter?

Matt

Sure. You have to disconnect the switch and all the wires in the starter area, and check color to color at each end. The easiest way to check for switch fault is to pull the yellow wire off the solenoid, hook up a 12 volt test light or volt meter, turn the key, and read the volts. The yellow wire should show 12 volts when the key is turned to "start".

Russ....that's way too complicated for us rednecks.....

Scott, just stick your tongue to it bro.....

thats my boy ...... do it like do down here