CC 1315 + no start.

[lobsta1]

Newby here. My 15 year old CC has been having intermittent problems turning over. This is on a 12 hp Kohler. Finally had to resort to jumpimg the solenoid today. Got a bunch of the yard done today & took a break. Tried to start & no go. Even jumping the solenoid wouldn't work. Found no spark to the plug when turning over & headlights were off. Replaced the solenoid & no change.

Don't have a wiring diagram. Pulled the ignition switch out but with no diagram I don't know what is supposed to make to what. There is also something that looks like an old horn relay with two red wires on it.With the key on, I do have 12v on the red wires. Also have 12v at one of the red wires in back of the switch.

If I jumper direct from the battery to battery post to the starter, the motor cranks but no spark at plug & no headlights & no reading on volt meter.This is with the key in any position. Same thing if I pull the little wire off the solenoid & put jumper on the small lug.

As you can see, I'm just fumbling here. Could I have the battery wires reversed on the solenoid? Reason I ask is the replacement has the small lug in line with the post going to the starter. The original has it in line with the post to the battery.

Please Help
Thanks
Al

[lobsta1]

Well, nobody replied, but I'll post results anyway.

Came up with a wiring schematic. The "relay" turned out to be a deck switch even though it was under the dash panel. Discovered there is also a neutral safety switch under the chassis.Started jumpering & bypassing everything I could. Found that the no headlights was a red herring. Turns out they only work when the ignition switch is turned from the "run" to the "light" position. Never noticed that before since I don't cut the grass in the dark.

Just got it started. Don't know if it was my reconnecting all the mate-n-lock connectors, my probing around or the neutral switch. Think it was a combination of everything with a leaning towards the neutral switch.It was a little to wet & cold to be laying on the ground pulling the deck & trying to pull the switch. It was all I could do to get my fingertips on it to poke around. I think I will pick one up & replace it anyways.
Al

[Donsyl]

Those safety switches cause a lot of aggrevation...............i think that when they are all bypassed it is a lot better........Don

[WNYTractorTinkerer]

Those relays are known for going bad.. They also affect your PTO engagement!! Buy a spare and keep it in the shop for future maladies.. As far as bypassing safety switches you could be setting yourself up for disaster if you have kids or inexperienced Operators that could have access to your mower.. It's your call but- As the saying goes: Better SAFE then SORRY!!

[diesel_nut]

The only safety switch I think should be there is the seat/mower deck shut off.
I absolutely hate the seat/engine shut off. Sheer stupidity.