JD 318 Electrical Issue

Y2KF250PSD · Apr 1, 2013

This is a 1989 model with 1250 hours.

A year or so ago, the battery warning light began staying on and the battery wouldn't charge. I installed a new voltage regulator/rectifier and it fixed the problem.

Yesterday, it suddenly shut down when running. I was able to get it restarted but now the battery light is again. Additionally, it runs as long as its in neutral but when you attempt to move the hydro-stat handle and the neutral safety switch releases, the engine dies.

I ordered another rectifier but the neutral switch has me concerned there may be another problem. Or is that another symptom of a bad rectifier?

Thanks

KENSFM · Apr 1, 2013

How old is your battery, are you sure it is good?
Ken

Y2KF250PSD · Apr 2, 2013

Just put the battery in last year when i replaced the last voltage rectifier, it's been working fine. I'm hoping the new rectifier will solve both problems, will advise

joecdeere · Apr 2, 2013

I don't have the answer, but I have a PDF of the Deere Tech manual you're welcome to that I bet does. Shoot me your email
Joe

Y2KF250PSD · Apr 2, 2013

[

joecdeere said:
I don't have the answer, but I have a PDF of the Deere Tech manual you're welcome to that I bet does. Shoot me your email
Joe

Joe

My email is ***********

Thanks very much for your generous offer

Chuck,

Eric102 · Apr 3, 2013

Did you check the seat switch? If its bad the engine will die when shifted out of neutral. Had to replace the one on my 87 318 a few years ago.

Y2KF250PSD · Apr 3, 2013

That switch was actually bypassed when i got the machine but i did double check it. Thanks for the idea though

Eric102 · Apr 4, 2013

Y2KF250PSD said:
That switch was actually bypassed when i got the machine but i did double check it. Thanks for the idea though

I thought about bypassing mine also but at about the same time a friends dad rolled his mower over on top of himself and was glad the seat switch was working. He broke his leg but didn't get chewed up by a running mower.