DK35 Dead - Won't Start

[Coyote machine]

Load testing the battery is crucial to knowing what is going on. Basically verify the battery is good, under load, and then check everything else going forward toward the key switch.
Sometimes even the battery cables can fail due to corrosion under the plastic jacket, but that is less likely, unless you're in a salt environment, like near the ocean.
It is common to jump to the conclusion that 12V at the battery is good to go, and thus head in the wrong direction suspecting things like relays, etc. I'm not saying it can't be a relay, or the ignition switch; but first one needs to verify that the battery is not the culprit.

 

[WhatIsChazaq]

Well...for some reason I wasn't getting emails from this forum. All of a sudden the emails came in. Looks like I have some great troubleshooting steps to try. Thanks all. Will post back in a few days when this thing is finally running.

 

[PoorMansCat]

Its funny y'all mention the Batt- to frame connection... Here recently, within the past 6 months, I have had to clean and repair that connection point on a Ford tractor, a zero turn Cub Cadet, a JD 790, and a Branson 3510.....
I have resorted to adding an additional ground cable to the starter case... problems haven't surfaced again...

 

[WhatIsChazaq]

Local Kioti dealer doesn't seem to be able to figure out which battery I need for this bugger (on the phone now).

What battery spec do I need for this bugger, sorry, forgot to look before I left the house today. I want to pick one up while I am in town today and see if she'll fire up tonight.

 

[pafoodplotter]

Load testing the battery is crucial to knowing what is going on. Basically verify the battery is good, under load, and then check everything else going forward toward the key switch.
Sometimes even the battery cables can fail due to corrosion under the plastic jacket, but that is less likely, unless you're in a salt environment, like near the ocean.
It is common to jump to the conclusion that 12V at the battery is good to go, and thus head in the wrong direction suspecting things like relays, etc. I'm not saying it can't be a relay, or the ignition switch; but first one needs to verify that the battery is not the culprit.

Thanks for the reply. I will load check and post the results. Will the load test be accurate even though the starter doesn't turn over?

During the past few months i had been having some trouble with the ground connection on the battery. When I did, I got the same intermittent dash lights and relay groans. Previously I would just clean the post and connections and the problem would go away. I have cleaned the battery posts, the connection to the frame, and checked the ohms between the neg. post and the ground wires/connection....all good. If it is the battery, could I just jump start from another 12-volt vehicle?

 

[pafoodplotter]

Well...for some reason I wasn't getting emails from this forum. All of a sudden the emails came in. Looks like I have some great troubleshooting steps to try. Thanks all. Will post back in a few days when this thing is finally running.

I saw your posts from so time ago and realized I may be having the same problem with my dK35.

 

[grsthegreat]

Yup.. i agree with some of the other posters. The battery needs to be checked under load. My old JD gave me the same issues. It tested 12.6 volts standing, but dropped to below 6v under the load test. we replaces it, all was well again

 

[pafoodplotter]

Okay.. volts just shy of 12.2 between the posts before and after turning the key.. I don't think the solenoid switched and the starter definitely did not turn. Should I be able to detecte a drawdown on the battery if nothing is turning?

So the ground wire to the frame and battery is good. There is 12.2v across the solenoid, and no drop in volts when i try to start it (but the starter motor doesn't bump either).

Next up, something I've been trying to avoid..taking the console apart. From what I've read, it seems that the ignition switch needs to be checked. Is it worth the effort in trying a new battery??

 

[k0ua]

Okay.. volts just shy of 12.2 between the posts before and after turning the key.. I don't think the solenoid switched and the starter definitely did not turn. Should I be able to detecte a drawdown on the battery if nothing is turning?

So the ground wire to the frame and battery is good. There is 12.2v across the solenoid, and no drop in volts when i try to start it (but the starter motor doesn't bump either).

Next up, something I've been trying to avoid..taking the console apart. From what I've read, it seems that the ignition switch needs to be checked. Is it worth the effort in trying a new battery??

If it doesnt drop. probably not a bad battery, sounds like a switch or connection problem. (mouse in the wires?) I would go to the switch first. after checking all fuses. and ground connections

James K0UA

 

[MossflowerWoods]

If it doesnt drop. probably not a bad battery, sounds like a switch or connection problem. (mouse in the wires?) I would go to the switch first. after checking all fuses. and ground connections

James K0UA

James is right. He said what I was gonna say.

My money is on a mouse chewed wire...

I use dryer sheets... That reminds me I need to change them...
David