Is my starter going? How to replace....

[fried1765]

Thanks all for the great advice above. Because my free time is so limited, and because I've had the good fortune of only having to replace the ignition switch on this tractor in 2500 hours, I think I will pick up a starter assembly at my dealer ($180) and replace it. My wife uses the tractor alot during the week when I'm at work, and the peace of mind that it will start reliably is worth the $180 and some time this weekend. I may take the time to take photos of the procedure and post them for any future TBN user. Again, thanks all!

Why would you buy a starter BEFORE you have the battery tested?
Would you replace a 2500 hour light fixture if the bulb did not come on?

 

[RalphVa]

I'll bet access to your starter is dirt simple. Usually, there are 2 bolts holding the starter in place and one bolt holding the positive lead to the solenoid. Just make sure your sockets/wrenches fit tightly, preferable with all 6 sides, because those bolts holding the starter in place could be very tight. I had to replace the starter on an old 220D Benz. Those were very tight.

 

[newbury]

Also - if you have not done it already start spraying the bolts/nuts with Kroil or your favorite liquid for rusted bolts. Give it a day or so to work if you can.

 

[flyerdan]

If the starter is spinning but not engaging the flywheel, the solenoid is working fine, the bendix is gummed up or somehow not extending.
A click...click...click...but no starter motor spinning indicates a solenoid problem.
Most places will have a core charge; if it isn't too expensive it will be worth it to keep and recondition (they're easy to work on) and have a green tagged one on the shelf ready to swap out in the future.

 

[fishheadbob]

I've been experiencing the same thing. For 15 years, so obviously it doesn't have to get worse. Mine occurs when it's very cold out, 15 degrees or less, and has been diagnosed as the Bendix getting cranky in the cold. In my case it will catch and engage on the second attempt and always works after the tractor warms up a little. Many years ago I had a rebuilt starter lined up, but after looking at where the starter is on mine, the third bolt looked like a loader support brace needed removal to get at that bolt. I decided to wait until it worsened.
Good luck.

 

[RickB]

I've been experiencing the same thing. For 15 years, so obviously it doesn't have to get worse. Mine occurs when it's very cold out, 15 degrees or less, and has been diagnosed as the Bendix getting cranky in the cold. In my case it will catch and engage on the second attempt and always works after the tractor warms up a little. Many years ago I had a rebuilt starter lined up, but after looking at where the starter is on mine, the third bolt looked like a loader support brace needed removal to get at that bolt. I decided to wait until it worsened.


Good luck.

3/8" drive 9/16" flex socket, 6" extension and a ratchet. Take that third bolt out first and install it last. Remove the fuel filter for a little more room.
I've changed more starters on 3 cylinder Fords than most guys have done engine oil changes.

 

[fishheadbob]

3/8" drive 9/16" flex socket, 6" extension and a ratchet. Take that third bolt out first and install it last. Remove the fuel filter for a little more room.
I've changed more starters on 3 cylinder Fords than most guys have done engine oil changes.

Thanks I'll definitely remember that but hopefully I'll never have to put it to use. Unlike you I'm not a mechanic and prefer to keep the skin on my knuckles.

 

[RickB]

3/8" drive 9/16" flex socket, 6" extension and a ratchet. Take that third bolt out first and install it last. Remove the fuel filter for a little more room.
I've changed more starters on 3 cylinder Fords than most guys have done engine oil changes.

Thanks I'll definitely remember that but hopefully I'll never have to put it to use. Unlike you I'm not a mechanic and prefer to keep the skin on my knuckles.

Do it my way and you will keep your skin. Good mechanics don't use too many bandages.