Checking Starter Solenoid on John Deere Mower
You go to start your lawnmower, but the engine won’t spin. The only sound is a humming or clicking.
If the starter motor can turn over the engine without the John Deere solenoid, the solenoid is probably broken. Battery chargers can be used to check the functionality of a starter solenoid that is attached to the starter.
Use extreme caution around the starter solenoid. Take all the necessary measures as outlined in the John Deere manual.
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What Does a Solenoid Do on a John Deere Lawn Mower?
Like a light switch, the solenoid on a John Deere lawn mower can be turned on or off. The starter motor is activated by pressing a button on an electromagnet switch.
The starter solenoid is typically attached to the starter motor, however this is not required for proper operation. In certain mowers, the solenoid is placed nearer the battery than the starting.
Solenoids with 3 and 4 Posts
Common wiring diagram for solenoids with 3, 4, or more terminals. Keep in mind that not all wiring diagrams for lawn mowers are created equal.
Some John Deere mower wiring diagrams will have details for auxiliary features like lights and 12-volt ports. These diagrams are only a simple wiring diagram.
Before diagnosing, repairing, or operating, be sure you’ve read and understood all of the safety recommendations in the equipment’s operator’s manual.If you lack the expertise, experience, or physical ability to complete the repair safely, you should seek the advice of a professional.
What Does the Solenoid Look Like on a John Deere Lawn Mower?
The appearance of solenoids can vary. It’s possible that round and square shapes exist. Perhaps three or four posts protrude from it. The starter will have a few solenoids attached to the top.
One side of the solenoid is connected to the positive (+) wire coming from the John Deere battery. Locating the solenoid is as simple as following the positive connection from the battery.
All John Deere tractors with electric starters use solenoids.
What Breaks a John Deere Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid?
A solenoid made by John Deere is a type of electrical switch. Things that use electricity have a 100% failure rate.
A spring and copper plate are housed inside the solenoid.The spring or copper plate on a John Deere starter solenoid might get weak and fail.
A weak starter, faulty battery, or poor ground might potentially cause the solenoid to fail.
If you need to diagnose a solenoid, it helps to know what signs to look for.
How to Recognize a Faulty John Deere Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid
- Turning the key in the ignition and hearing a clicking or humming noise, but the mower still won’t start.
- The wire begins to smoke and perhaps melt as it heats up.
How to Recognize a Faulty Solenoid on a John Deere Lawnmower
The Necessary Equipment:
- Ohm’s Law Meter
- Screwdriver
- Continuous Lighting
- Test wrenches for slack wiring
- If the screwdriver is unsuccessful, use the needle-nose pliers.
- Charger for Batteries (Optional)
There are a number of techniques you can use to figure out what’s wrong with your lawn mower’s solenoid.
1. Charge Your John Deere Battery Fully
Check the voltage of your battery with a voltmeter to make sure it’s at least 12.3 volts.
2. Prepare to Turn on Your John Deere Lawnmower
- Place the brakes in park
- Put the lawnmower in park before you start it.
- Insert the key and turn it on.
3. Avoid the John Deere Starter Solenoid Using a Screwdriver
To avoid using the starter, lay a long screwdriver over the solenoid and touch the two cables. The battery cable and the starting cable are the two wires you need.
When the screwdriver touches the wires, it could cause a spark. Don’t freak out, as this is rather frequent.
Solenoid failure is more likely if the engine starts while bypassing the solenoid.Needle nose pliers can be used to bypass the solenoid if the screwdriver doesn’t do the trick.
Check for a poor ground or wires that are loose before replacing the starter solenoid. These obstructions can cut off electricity to the solenoid, rendering it inoperable.
4. Put the John Deere solenoid starter to the test.
It is possible to examine the starter’s installed solenoids. Take off the engine’s starter and plug a battery charger into the solenoid to see whether it works. This is a useful method for checking the starter’s solenoid connection.
After taking the starter off your lawnmower, connect the negative (-) clamp to the starter case and the positive (+) clamp to the solenoid’s large post and exciter wire. When the starter is out, this is only a fast evaluation off the bench.
Is It Possible to Ignore the John Deere Lawn Mower’s Solenoid?
By crossing the solenoid with a long screwdriver, you can prevent the battery cable from making contact with the starter solenoid on a John Deere tractor.
Take caution. It’s typical for the connection to produce a spark.Put on protective gear at all times.
Related Discussions
Water in the electrical system can also prevent your mower from starting. For more information, read Why Your Lawn Mower Won’t Start After Being Left in the Rain.
Is Your John Deere Mower Still Giving You Trouble?
Over the course of owning a John Deere mower, you’re bound to run into a few different issues. These can include issues like not moving, not cutting evenly, not vibrating, not starting, and dying while mowing.
I compiled a helpful manual to assist you in diagnosing the issues with your John Deere lawnmower. See the article “Common John Deere Lawn Mower Problems and Solutions” for help.
