3184 starting problem

RisleyCub · Sep 13, 2007

I inherited a CC 3184 from wife's grandfather. It is a nice machine except for a couple minor problems. When I turn the key, there is a clicking noise but nothing happens. I turn it off/on 5 or 6 times (average, sometime less sometimes more) before it fires. Then it run great.

2nd problem is the PTO switch. I have to hold it up for about 20 seconds with the engine on fast before it will stay on by itself. If I let go before that it shuts off.

Any Idea on how to correct these two problems on an otherwise great machine?

MrJimi · Sep 13, 2007

First problem I would say is a weak battery or bad connection, check both ends of your positive and negative cable and clean as needed both ends of both cables

RisleyCub · Sep 13, 2007

Thanks. The Battery is good. I will check connections to the solenoid, etc.
Will make my day if thats all the problem is.

MrJimi · Sep 13, 2007

RisleyCub said:
Thanks. The Battery is good. I will check connections to the solenoid, etc.
Will make my day if thats all the problem is.

You can have the best battery in the world but if it's not connecting ? it's not connecting. Clean up your connections at both ends of both cables and you will be a happy camper

Bob_Bainbridge · Sep 13, 2007

The clicking could be a starter problem also. I haven't had one apart since my 1450 days but it used a Bendix type starter where the pnion gear is held disengaged by a spring. The inertia of the starter armature forces the pinion gear into the flywheel gear and starts the tractor. The pinion gear sometimes binds on the shaft and doesn't engage to crank the engine. I used to take the starter out and apply some grease to the shaft and slide the gear in and out a few times. This would last several years.

Bob B.

CDCub · Sep 13, 2007

I had a similar problem with my 1000 series Cub. Turn the key and get a click but no starter. Turned out that my son had "bumped" the key to start without holding it down and the starter gear had kicked up to the flywheel and jammed. This happened twice. The second time the repair tech showed me how to remove the fan cover and knock the starter gear down with punch. I spent hours trying to find an electrical problem that was not there.

You can see if this is the problem by looking down through the fan/flywheel toward the starter using a flashlight.

Maybe this will help