Cub Cadet model 1720 won't start! (15 years old)

JasonB · Apr 14, 2005

Cub Cadet model 1720 won\'t start! (15 years old)

After getting the tractor out to mow for the first time this season, it will not START. I trickle charged the battery, but all it does it make a grrrrrr sound when I try to start it.

Any ideas?

Bob_Bainbridge · Apr 14, 2005

Re: Cub Cadet model 1720 won\'t start! (15 years old)

This sounds similar to a problem I had a few times with my old 1450. The starter would run but not engage the flywheel nor crank the engine. A couple times I gave it a rap with a rubber hammer (not recommened) and it would work for awhile. I disassembled the starter and it had a Bendix spring which is supposed to push the pinion gear into the flywheel when the starter spins. The shaft and gear had worn slightly and were dry causing the gear to stick. I cleaned the gear and shaft and smeared a light film of grease on the shaft and filled the plastic cap on the end of the shaft. It worked for several seasons after that and I never did replace the starter in 26 years.

Bob B.

JasonB · Apr 14, 2005

Re: Cub Cadet model 1720 won\'t start! (15 years old)

Well, I just got back and it was my battery. One of the cells was bad, so it didn't have the cranking amps to do it. Even after charging it all day.

I just put the new battery in, 400 cranking amps, $32.

I will keep what you said in mind for the starter if/when that does occur.

LBrown59 · Apr 24, 2005

Re: Cub Cadet model 1720 won\'t start! (15 years old)

( After getting the tractor out to mow for the first time this season, it will not START. I trickle charged the battery, but all it does it make a grrrrrr sound when I try to start it.

Any ideas? )

Did you try jump starting it.
The battery may not be holding the charge.

LBrown59 · Apr 24, 2005

Re: Cub Cadet model 1720 won\'t start! (15 years old)

( This sounds similar to a problem I had a few times with my old 1450. The starter would run but not engage the flywheel nor crank the engine. A couple times I gave it a rap with a rubber hammer (not recommened) and it would work for awhile. I disassembled the starter and it had a Bendix spring which is supposed to push the pinion gear into the flywheel when the starter spins. The shaft and gear had worn slightly and were dry causing the gear to stick. I cleaned the gear and shaft and smeared a light film of grease on the shaft and filled the plastic cap on the end of the shaft. It worked for several seasons after that and I never did replace the starter in 26 years.

Bob B. )
 Keep them coated. I spray them white greese from a dpray can.