Recognizing Faulty Poulan Pro Starter Solenoids (Test & Fix)
As soon as you turn the key, a clicking or humming sound begins. This is typically an indication of a faulty starter solenoid. Several different things can produce the same symptom, so I’ll explain how to tell if it’s a broken solenoid or something else.
If the Poulan Pro starter motor turns over when the solenoid is removed, then the solenoid is probably broken. If you suspect a faulty starter solenoid, you can use a battery charger to power the solenoid while it is attached to the starter and see whether it sparks.
Use extreme caution around the starter solenoid. In order to avoid injury, you should observe all of the guidelines for safe Poulan Pro use that are included in the instructions.
Before making any changes to the electrical system, disconnect the black cable from the battery, followed by the red cable.
Before diagnosing, repairing, or operating, be sure you’ve read and understood all of the safety recommendations in the equipment’s operator’s manual. In the event that you lack the necessary expertise, experience, or physical ability to properly complete the repair, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a professional.
Table of Contents
The Poulan Pro Lawn Mower Solenoid: What Does It Do?
The solenoid in a Poulan Pro lawn mower functions similarly to a light switch. A starter motor is activated by pressing a button on an electromagnet switch.
If you have a Poulan Pro lawnmower, where would you find the starter solenoid?
The solenoid for starting a Poulan Pro does not have to be attached to the starter motor, though doing so will improve performance. Rather of being located with the starter and battery, some lawn mower solenoids are positioned on the frame, near the battery.
The starter solenoid can be located by following the red positive connection from the battery.
Solenoids, Post-Three and Post-Four
This is a standard wiring diagram for solenoids with three or four terminals. Have in mind that not every lawn mower has the same wiring diagram.
Certain Poulan Pro mowers include additional features, such as lights and 12-volt ports, and their wiring diagrams will reflect this. Only the most fundamental structure of the wiring is depicted in these pictures.
What Does the Solenoid Look Like on a Poulan Pro Lawn Mower?
In some cases, solenoids may have a somewhat altered appearance. It’s possible that round and square shapes exist. Perhaps three or four posts protrude from it. There will be some solenoids fastened to the starter’s cap.
A Poulan Pro battery’s positive (+) line connects to one side of the solenoid. An easy approach to locate your solenoid is to follow the positive connection from the battery.
All Poulan Pro electric starter motors have solenoids.
Why Does a Starting Solenoid Fail in a Poulan Pro Lawn Mower?
The electrical switch known as a solenoid is manufactured by Poulan Pro. Sometimes, electricity just stops working.
The solenoid has a copper plate and spring within.
If the spring in your Poulan Pro solenoid becomes too weak or the copper plate corrodes, your starter will not work.
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.
Signs Your Poulan Pro Lawn Mower’s Starting Solenoid Is Defective
- Not starting when the key is turned, making a clicking or humming noise.
- The wire heats up and smokes or melts as it loses its integrity.
How to Recognize a Faulty Solenoid in a Poulan Pro Lawn Mower
The Necessary Equipment:
- Volt-Ohmmeter
- Screwdriver
- Light continuity
- Wire-checking wrenches
- Pincer pliers (If screwdriver does not work)
- Battery Charger (Optional)
The solenoid on your lawn mower can be diagnosed in a few different ways.
Be sure the Poulan Pro battery is fully charged before using it.
Check the voltage of your battery with a voltmeter to make sure it’s at least 12.3 volts.
Prepare to Turn on Your Poulan Pro Lawnmower
- Put on the brakes and park
- Put your lawn mower in park and give it a rest.
- Insert the key and turn it on.
Screwdriver-Bypass Poulan Pro Starter Solenoid
To avoid using the starter, lay a long screwdriver over the solenoid and touch the two cables. The battery cable and the starter cable are the two wires you need to get your engine started.
When the screwdriver touches the wires, it could cause a spark. Don’t freak out; this happens frequently.
If the engine starts up while you have the solenoid disconnected, it’s probably broken.
Use needle nose pliers to bypass the solenoid if the screwdriver doesn’t do the trick.
There may be a poor ground or a loose wire that has to be fixed before you replace the starter solenoid. These obstructions may prevent the solenoid from receiving the energy it needs to function.
Perform a Solenoid Test on a Poulan Pro Starter
Starter-mounted solenoids can be examined. Take the engine’s starter off the hook and charge the battery to check the solenoid. Checking the solenoid connection between the starter and the battery is a good idea.
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. While the starter is out, we only do a fast bench test.
Is There Any Way to Get Around the Poulan Pro Starter Solenoid?
By inserting a long screwdriver over the solenoid, you can prevent the battery wire from making contact with the solenoid and instead directly power the starter on a Poulan Pro.
Take caution. A spark may appear at the connection, which is typical. Whenever you go out, make sure you’re protected.
