Cub Cadet 2166 - Will turn over, start, then stall

[EagleEye]

My son was driving the 2166 the other day (mowing the lawn) when it suddenly stalled out. Upon attempting to start it, it reliabably turns over with every indication that it is starting (starts firing), then it shuts itself down.

I have done the following:
Checked the ignition spark (it's there!)
Verified fuel flow through (and out of) the fuel pump (even took it off and checked it out)
Verified fuel flow into the carb (even replaced the solenoid)
Replaced the relay

The Agway guys says that it's most likely NOT the safety switches (which I originally took off with the intent to replace - he says they rarely bust). I'm baffled as to what it is.

Ideas? Ignition switch? Safety switches? To me, it's apparent that it's electrical because when I turn the ignition over, it starts, only to stop after I release the key to the "run" state.

Help!

 

[EagleEye]

Additional note - The 2166 has 137 hrs on it. Could it be the ignition module or rectifier/regulator?

 

[Bob_Bainbridge]

If the engine actually starts and then quits as soon as you release the spring-loaded switch, it sounds like the ignition switch may be bad. The switch has to provide battery voltage to the ignition in both the START and RUN positions and may be failing. If you have a position for lights and one for no lights, try them both.

Bob B.

 

[EagleEye]

Bob, lights and no lights positions on the ignition switch work. I also took out the plug and turned over the engine. When I let go of the key (in the run position), there were a few more sparks out of it. I'm not convinced it's the ignition. I think it may actually be one of the safety switches. I'll try those next.

 

[Bob_Bainbridge]

That's a good possibility. My diagram shows the Fuel Solenoid drawing power through the brake switch and PTO switch.

Bob B.

 

[EagleEye]

The problem was a bad relay (there are two, not one as one of you kindly indicated earlier...that there were two).

As some of you know, there are two relays on the CC 2166 (Kohler Single Cylinder 16HP). The operating manual doesn't mention it (obviously, it's not intended to) and the parts manual does NOT reference it. However, the schematics that Bill provided me (THANK YOU) did identify it and those proved to be the key to my problem determination.

When I addressed the two relay premise to the chief mechanic at Agway (a certified CC repair shop - the only one in the area), he claimed there was only one and only reluctantly sold me my second one (which I had concluded was different but in reality, is the same - I'm a dummy because I could have used the other one I replace...UGH!!!! ). The Agway guy was trying to tell me that it was most likely a timing key shear problem and that I would have to bring it in (major job). He was wrong... but was trying to help.

The rectifier regulator's purpose is to charge the battery (I think ) so it wasn't a legitimate source of the problem.

In any event, my many thanks do go out to those of you who took the time to provide me with your thoughts and ideas. I REALLY DO APPRECIATE IT!

After replacing the second relay, she started right up and I'm ready for business once again. Time to put my son back to work.