MF Won't Start

[belezar]

Hi - new to forum although I have lurked a several times.

I have a MF 245 which was running fine. I went to start it yesterday and it would make a sound like it was turning over once - like it tries to turn over. I figured maybe it was the battery for some reason although it had not seemed week and was doing fine in the cold. It would perform no differently with jumper cables on. I checked the battery cables, and they seemed ok although they were kind of hot. Any ideas? Thanks in advance!

Ken

 

[ModMech]

The engine cannot turn over, either because the starter gears have it jammed, or because of another mechanical problem.

IF the brakes are set, the trans in gear, and there is no inter lock on the clutch, it might be possible to activate the starter but have the driveline engaged so the engine cannot turn.

Other options are more involved.

 

[belezar]

When I tried it later today I got the same thing except there was a high pitched whine after the attempt to turn over. Is that likely the starter gone?

 

[kebo]

I would try a totally different battery (one that is known to be good) just to rule out the battery as the source of the trouble. If it behaves pretty much the same way with a different battery, you have definitely ruled out the battery and most likely your problem is with the starter motor.

You may have to pull the starter off and take it to a starter/alt. shop and have it checked out.

 

[Iplayfarmer]

I've had similar issues with a smaller tractor. Both times it ended up being a worn out starter.

Do as kebo suggested and rule out the battery. Then pull the starter and have it tested at a local auto parts shop. Should be no cost to have it tested.

 

[mitch becton]

if you will post where you are located in nc i can direct you to a alternator rebuilder in you area. nc sc and other southeast states are in my sales area and i only call on alternator starter rebuilders they above some part stores can truly indentify your problem. also if you can make sure your tractor is in neutral gears and if attempted to start will not run you over try this simple test on your starter. they are 2 post on your starter solenoid one post generally the top of starter is the wire from battery ignition switch this post is only activated by the key switch the other post which is the bottom post will have a lead coming to it from within the starter field case if you can get a set of jumper cables from a good battery source take the ground cable anywhere there is a good ground then take the hot positive cable and touch the field post by doing this you are by passing the solenoid in most cases the starter will spin but not engage starter if this fails more that likely a starter rebuild is possibly next and when take it to some rebuilders they do this same test on all units when they come in for repair good process of elimnation.

thanks

mitch becton

 

[belezar]

An update - Just heard today from the shop. The rear piston bearing seized up. They did not know exactly why, although they said the wear was likely going on for a while. This will be an expensive repair.

 

[RavensRoost]

Piston bearing, meaning rod bearing...or crank bearing?

 

[belezar]

Crank bearing

 

[Iplayfarmer]

...The rear piston bearing seized up.

That really sucks. So much for the easy fix.