Kubota won't start

[bota7800]

I posted this in the Kubota forum but only got 1 responder so forgive me for double posting.

I used the tractor about a week before - started right up and no problems. Then, last Friday it would not start. It cranks but does not start so it is not one of the safety systems.

I checked the fuses, they are fine. The air filter is clean - new this spring.

I checked the glow plugs, they have current and the one I pulled glowed when I put 12 V across it.

I pulled the fuel line into the pump, fuel flowed.
I took a line off at an injector and tried to crank. I did not see any evidence of fuel. Should I?

I took the fuel pump off and pumped the lever manually. It seemed to be pumping. (I could hear and feel it)

So I have air, current and fuel (apparently). It still seems like a fuel issue to me but I have no other ideas.

Thanks for any help

 

[JohnDeere4300]

I used the tractor about a week before - started right up and no problems. Then, last Friday it would not start. It cranks but does not start so it is not one of the safety systems.

It could be the seat switch.

Have you tried putting a jumper wire in to see if it would start ?

 

[bota7800]

Thanks JD4300.

I knew it would be something simple like that. I jumpered it and it started. I will get a couple new switches.

 

[JohnDeere4300]

Thanks JD4300.

I knew it would be something simple like that. I jumpered it and it started. I will get a couple new switches.

I thought that's what it was because it happened to me once... and that's how I became a member here... My tractor wouldn't start & my wife registered me here and "Kennyd" was the one that replied and said a seat switch.

Glad you found the problem!

Oh one more thing... If I was you I would keep a small wire with you on your tractor, because you never know when a switch will go bad.

 

[bota7800]

Well, it looks like it isn't the safety switch afterall.

When I jumpered it last night it started. When I went to use it today it would not start again. I tested both switches, they have continuity.

I got it started again after many tries, shut it down and again had trouble starting it. Now I am thinking it might be the ignition switch as it seems to start when I have the key in one position but not when fully rotated. This may be a total red herring because I cannot explain how the starter is cranking in all cases.

I have since started it both with the seat switch jumpered and engaged.

Oh, and as for carrying a small wire; the tractor, bought used, came with the seat switch defeated. I still had the wire in the tool box. Good advice though.

 

[MikeInEburg]

I didn't think it would be the seat switch since the engine won't crank if this is unhappy. Got to be a fuel or solenoid issue - the starter switch could easily cause this!
Mike

 

[bota7800]

The tractor is now starting fairly reliably again and there is evidence of fuel at a slightly loose injector tube.

I REALLY HATE IT when things spontaneously HEAL without a confirmed explanation. I figure it will quit again just when I most need it.

 

[Willl]

I have a 98446 zip, you anywhere close ?

 

[bota7800]

I have a 98446 zip, you anywhere close ?

A bit north of you - Arlington/Marysville area

 

[dqdave1]

When it does want to start; check to see if you have power to fuel solenoid.