Help! it won't start!

[SteadyEddie]

I could use some advice troubleshooting this problem. I have a 1 yr old, garage kept Bx2350 that suddenly wouldn't start. It was fine when I backed it out, turned it around & backed in for "winter prep". The only things I did were to plug a light kit (from Bxpanded) into the work light connection (left rear) & installed the ballast box. When I hit the key to pull out - nothing! There's no cranking at all.
Here's what I tried so far; battery tested @ 12.5v, connections are clean & tight. Checked all fuses in block (& "slow blow" by engine), replaced the 10a "solenoid" fuse ("just in case"). The brake is on & the pedals are "in neutral".
Could this be the starter? My dealer is closed 'till Monday & we're supposed to get our first snow tonight (of course!). Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

 

[TripleR]

Do your dash lights work when you turn on the key; check your operator presence switch under the seat?

 

[SteadyEddie]

Yes, the dash lights come on, & that "clicking" sound when it's @ the glow plug setting. I made sure the operator presence switch was firmly plugged in, but I've been able to start it while standing next to the machine in the past.

 

[patrick_g]

Do your dash lights work when you turn on the key; check your operator presence switch under the seat?

...and if there is a PTO then check to see it is in the disengaged position. I have been bit by that a couple times.

Also see if you can jump it by bridging power to the solenoid. If that doesn't start it up then the solenoid may be a gonner.

Pat

 

[Deano]

...and if there is a PTO then check to see it is in the disengaged position. I have been bit by that a couple times.


Pat

My first thought! Once in a while I have to pull extra on the PTO lever to "seat" it.

Deano

 

[Willl]

12.5 is low, I'd take another look at that battery.

 

[dex3361]

Hold your key in the start position and rock your HST forward /reverse pedal back a forth a bit. sometimes the switch doest meet make when its centered. If this is the case as you engage the switch it will turn the starter.

 

[BotaBigot]

Sounds like one of the safety interlocks is acting up. On mine, it's usually the PTO engage...

 

[Stradbash]

I'll vote for the PTO engagement lever not quite being seated as well.
Mine is sensitive. Driving the tractor across bumpy parts of my yard or brushing it with my clothes can cause brief what the ?! moments. A quick tug on the lever and all is well.

 

[SteadyEddie]

Thanks for all the advice so far!
I haven't tried bridging the solenoid yet (I've always been a little chicken about that), but I'm beginning to feel it's one of the safety permissives. When I was trying to remove the cowl, I noticed a green wire hanging free & what I believe to be the water temp sensor without its wire. After I plugged it in, something said to give it a try. The starter cranked fine! I buttoned everything up and sat on the seat & tried again - nothing! What I'm thinking is one of the permissive switches is hanging up & I bounced it back to its "no start" position when I climbed on. As far as the battery, I did try to jump it with one of those power-packs with no luck. I will try a trickle charge for awhile though, it sure couldn't hurt!