Clicking when tring to start

[Peetzer]

I have a 1987 John Deere 850 Utility Tractor - It clicks like a bad solenoid when trying to start. I have replaced the Starter/Solenoid and it still does the same thing. All connections have been cleaned, any idea of what to try next?

 

[bigtiller]

Try jump starting it. If that works I would look at replacing the battery.

 

[Peetzer]

Just replaced the battery also, same problem

 

[Kubota 2350]

Sounds like either you have a bad battery cable, or a bad ignition switch.

You've got a bad connection somewhere.

 

[PILOON]

Since you state new battery, cleaned contacts then the next step is grounds.
At the battery neg cable, starter bolts (they make the return path).
Some tractors will have a ground strap from the frame to the engine block as well.
You want shiny metal to metal contacts.

Good luck.

 

[Peetzer]

Thankyou

 

[revitupfaster]

I had a similar problem with a Yanmar YM276D, which in it's day I think was very similar to a JD850 or 950. My Yanmar had a clutch and a "Shuttle" shift, and you had to fully depress the clutch to activate the safety switch, under the clutch pedal in order to start it. I didn't get any clicking noise in the crank position just a complete nothing. I did however still have the dash lights, and all the headlights and flasher lights worked fine, which to me indicated the battery wasn't the issue but she just wouldn't start.

I struggled with the thing, thinking it was somehow a bad/low battery, because it would always start if I used a jump from another battery. Finally, I had my guys at the shop rewire it and bypass that safety switch and voila.......end of the problem. She started every time after that. Somehow, the battery couldn't push the voltage through that switch, without 2nd battery boost along with it.

REV

 

[Willl]

Do you have a DC volt meter ?

 

[Degolyerent]

There has been several threads concerning this same problem,one is a 1985 850 JD on 11/27 it has to do with voltage drop and it gives an answer on what to do to it!

 

[kjung17]

This is a common problem on those little tractors. Deere recommends adding a relay to your starter solenoid. A 30 amp automotive style will work. Run your existing starter wire to term 85. Ground term 86 to chassis. Run battery voltage to term 30. Then run term 87(normally open) to your starter solenoid. Problem solved. Cost less than $10.