GC2300 engine stops when I turn lights on

[hollywd]

Anyone have any suggestions... When I turn the headlights on while the engine is running, engine immediately cuts off. I can turn the hazards and turn signals on with no problem. If the engine is off and I turn the power only on, the headlights and taillights work fine. I checked as many connections as I could locate and everything seems fine. Thanks for any help.

 

[irvingj]

Wow, that's a head scratcher! Sounds like the fuel cut-off solenoid may be dropping out... any way to verify that, as a starting point?

Please keep us posted!

 

[MFRED]

Yes, check connections. Something must not be getting a good connection. Grounds maybe. I can hear that call,"no, really it shut off when I turn the lights on!"

 

[BruceWard]

The fuel cut off solenoid requires a minimum level of amperage to keep the fuel flowing. I suspect that turning the lights on is reducing the amperage available to the fuel cut off solenoid.

Have you tested the battery and alternator?

The fuel cut off solenoid recently failed on my B21. Before it failed it started using more and more amperage which was demonstrated by blowing fuses.

 

[hollywd]

I know the battery is in good shape. I'm not sure how to test the alternator though, any advice?

Yeah, I'm sure that will be a fun call to make. "No really, I'm not drunk, it really does turn off when I turn the lights on"...

 

[Labrat]

Check the voltage at the battery with the engine off should be 12 to 12.5. Start the engine and check output should be 13.2 to 13.6. If it isn't check the output at the alternator stud. If that doesn't read 13.2 or higher you have no alt output. Possibly alternator, Regulator or what ever they use to excite the alternator like a charge light bulb.

 

[J_J]

Do you have an electrical schematic of your tractor?

 

[hollywd]

I don't have a schematic of the tractor. Any idea how I can get one?

Thanks Labrat, I'll give that a try.

 

[irvingj]

Not real clear, but maybe this will help--

 

[irvingj]

hollywd-- did you figure out what the problem was? A lot of GC owners would like to hear!