John Deere 870 Won't start

[wjcorbin]

I have a 13 yr old John Deere 870 diesel tractor. It was last started in November, 2014 and has been in a garage since then. I tried to start it and the starter clicked. I tried to jump start with it turning over maybe a half turn before clicking. I charged the battery overnight. It now tests over 12 volts but just clicks. Any ideas? Thanks!

 

[Zebrafive]

Clean the battery connections
Bad starter?

 

[wjcorbin]

I assumed by clamping on the jumper that I dealt with the issue of battery connectors. However, I am beginning to think it could be a bad starter. Any chance that the engine seized over the winter? If so, would removing the plugs might be an option to get things going? I appreciate your reply.

 

[ddbackhoe]

I assumed by clamping on the jumper that I dealt with the issue of battery connectors. However, I am beginning to think it could be a bad starter. Any chance that the engine seized over the winter? If so, would removing the plugs might be an option to get things going? I appreciate your reply.

First guess, bad battery/connections. It's got 12 volts but not enough amps to turn the starter. Load test the battery and see what you get.

 

[wjcorbin]

Thanks ddbackhoe for the reply -- wouldn't a jumper off my truck have dealt with bad battery? I don't believe I've replaced the battery so I know it is way past it's lifespan.

 

[ddbackhoe]

Not necessarily. Jump starting relies on good wire and connections between the 2 batteries AND the batteries to their associated engines/frames. A loose or slightly corroded connection can play games with you. Some of the newer booster cables being sold aren't worth using (IMO), they don't allow enough amps to go through. My set (4 guage wire, 800 amp clamps, 25 feet) maybe overkill, but I don't like screwing with dead equipment.

And, the battery itself may be shorted or open internally (bad plates). That's what a load test is good for.

 

[wjcorbin]

ddbackhoe - Thanks for the reply. I believe my jumper cable is the best. It runs off my truck's 8000 pound Warn winch connection and never failed me in years as a firefighter. I also tried a 110 volt jumper and overnight charge. I'm beginning to believe the starter died over the winter but think that is strange. I would appreciate your opinion.

 

[wjcorbin]

ddbackhoe: I hadn't thought of an internal short on the battery. I'll try disconnecting it and see what happens. Your advice is very much appreciated!

 

[ddbackhoe]

ddbackhoe - Thanks for the reply. I believe my jumper cable is the best. It runs off my truck's 8000 pound Warn winch connection and never failed me in years as a firefighter. I also tried a 110 volt jumper and overnight charge. I'm beginning to believe the starter died over the winter but think that is strange. I would appreciate your opinion.

Didn't mean to imply you had crappy cables, just more of a thinking out loud thing.

Well, after double checking the wires on the tractor, I'd swap out batteries with another vehicle.

 

[wjcorbin]

ddbackhoe - Sorry, didn't think you were saying my jumper cables were not good. Just trying to eliminate everything I can. I'm going to take the battery in for testing. I appreciate all your advice!