My John Deere Won't Start

antisolo · May 30, 2013

The tractor has been sitting for about a month. I went out to start it today and it would turn over but even with a shot of starting fluid it wouldn't stay running.

This is what I have: Tractor cranks but won't start, did start with a couple shots of starting fluid but won't stay running. I checked to see if it was getting fuel to the carburetor. Cracked open the line and there is fuel coming out but how much I don't know.

I noticed the wire going to the thing on the bottom of the carb sparked a little bit. My question is, what is this thing? Does it have to do with fuel flow? Would it have anything to do with it not starting?

Any response would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

pjbci · May 30, 2013

Thats a fuel shut off. It keeps the gas enginge from "deiseling" or sputtering when you turn off key. Make sure it has power to it. It has to have power to open and allow fuel to flow through carb.

Depmandog · May 30, 2013

That is a fuel shutoff solenoid. When the key is turned on, it should power the unit and cause the needle inside to retract, allowing fuel to flow.

They are a wear item, I keep a couple around for my old Farmall. Easy to check if its working..it will make a click sound when the key is turned on. Better yet, turn the fuel off, unplug and unscrew the unit, the plug it back in, ground it against the frame and turn the key on. You should see movement. If not, check that you have voltage at the plug. If you have voltage, but no movement. Replace.

If its not working, you will NOT get any fuel through the carb.