Electric Start Doesn't Work

dsnorrod

dsnorrod

New member
18hp Vanguard on a Delco Cobalt Skid. At first, when the key was turned it would click (thump like the starter gear would hit the flywheel but wouldn't quite engage) a few times in a row, then after the 4th or 5th key turn, it would fire right up. Now the starter does NOTHING. When the key is on, the hour meter works, and I can start it with the pull start, but when I try to turn the key to start, nothing. No click, no noise, nothing. Any ideas? Bad starter?
 
Could be, but I think I would look at the switch connections and switch, first.
 
I have had similar problems, it was rusty wire connectors, just cleaned them off and no more problems.
 
It could even be a loose wire. I've had to replace the starter though on my Vanguard 18HP. I just went ahead and replaced the solenoid though also while I was at it.
 
Most likely the solenoid.
 
Get a meter that will read 12 volts DC. Pull the yellow wire off the solenoid. Put the (+) terminal on the meter in it and ground the (-). Turn the key to "start". You should read 12 volts. If you can get in to it with a screwdriver, hop the large terminals on the solenoid. The starter should spin with no problem.
 
Well, I'm getting 12 volts when I turn the key to start, and when I jump the terminals, the starter spins. Picked up a new solenoid at a local place this morning and will give that a try.
 
You should bang on the solenoid at least a few times. There may be a fusible link in that area and I also have had a no-start just from the connections getting corroded.
 
Well after doing some digging, the magnets in the starter were busted. New starter, new solenoid, and it starts great. Thanks for the input guys!
 
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