I own a JD 4210 4wd w/HST. It has about 1800 hrs on it, and I got it used (came with the farm) about 2 yrs ago, but it's in very good shape -- has seen only light use and is stored in a garage. I use it for light utility work around my place -- front loader, a rear snow blade for the clearing the driveway, plus I do a bit of moving a hay wagon around. One thing I could always say was, this one always started right up w/no trouble, even in very cold weather (I live in Wisconsin).
Yesterday for the first time, it wouldn't start. It turned over 3 or 4 times, but a little more sluggish than normal, but I didn't think much about it at first, because it was cold (12 degrees). Then suddenly it cut out and started going "rat-a-tat-a-tat" real fast, almost like a real loud industrial sewing machine sounds. I immediately let go the key. I repreated this 3 or 4 times, and it got progressively worse (fewer cranks before it cuts out). The last time, it cut out almost right away.
The battery is fine -- I checked fluid levels, cleaned off the terminals and clamps, and checked the charge. Also, the headlights are nice and bright when I turn them on.
I'm wondering, is my starter broken? I'm reluctant to call my JD dealer because every time I do, it seems like it costs me big-time.
Thanks for your help.
Yesterday for the first time, it wouldn't start. It turned over 3 or 4 times, but a little more sluggish than normal, but I didn't think much about it at first, because it was cold (12 degrees). Then suddenly it cut out and started going "rat-a-tat-a-tat" real fast, almost like a real loud industrial sewing machine sounds. I immediately let go the key. I repreated this 3 or 4 times, and it got progressively worse (fewer cranks before it cuts out). The last time, it cut out almost right away.
The battery is fine -- I checked fluid levels, cleaned off the terminals and clamps, and checked the charge. Also, the headlights are nice and bright when I turn them on.
I'm wondering, is my starter broken? I'm reluctant to call my JD dealer because every time I do, it seems like it costs me big-time.
Thanks for your help.