Odd starting question

[VictorW]

Thanks for the idea. Each time at 15F and 25F days, the first start was identical. All three cylinders died together just like stopping the fuel supply. The third day at 25F, the start was normal. The tractor was run for an hour each of the first two days. Maybe the water, if any, worked it's way through. I'm going to do some more testing/checking/starting before I install the new switch and I will disassemble the old one to see if the contacts are really corroded. I want to be sure of what caused the problem.

Vic

 

[ritcheyvs]

On my DK45S, the main issue with the switch was dirt in the electrical contacts, probably from dust. Also, by the way, different contacts provide glow in the run position and the crank position

 

[VictorW]

Just to update. I have been starting the engine every other day with no problem. Today was finally the coldest at 24F. It started up with no problems and ran fine as I plowed snow for about an hour. I have a new ignition switch which I'll keep on the shelf for now. Maybe as mrutkaus mentioned, it was water, but for now it seems like it's made it way through.

 

[knibloe]

Those ignition switches seem to cause many problems that members have posted. My tractor is always under cover and I also made a key/ignition cover cap, like atv's have, to keep rain, snow, or dirt out when I'm using it. The ignition switch is the last thing I'd have thought of. I have a new one the way. Thanks for the info.

I can't always get my tractor under cover. Would you mind posting a pic. of the key cover?

 

[VictorW]

I couldn't find the actual pictures but here is the link to a post where I attached them before. This is what keeps the water, snow, and dirt out for me while using the tractor. I found this rubber cup at my local Lowes. Apparently it's for table legs or a large walking cane. I just cut it shorter so it would just fit over the switch hold down ring without hitting the dash and I had to slightly open up the inside diameter (1.25"). I trimmed a small amount off the closed end so the key could go completely into the switch. I made a small cut in the end where the key goes through and it's tight: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/...ting/70143d1171298808-real-turn-off-key-2.jpg

Your tractor should have a milk colored plastic switch cover that is attached under the hold down ring of the switch. Here's a link from a parts listing and it's #6. I use this when it's just parked and it works well. It's a Kioti part and another member, whose tractor was missing this, bought one to add on:
OEM Parts