Pt425 Robin Starter

[bol4fun]

I smelled burning plastic and jumped off my 425 today and saw flames above the Robin starter so through some dirt on it and put out the flames. The starter was very very hot and after everything cooled, took a picture to see the braided wire wrap was melted off and tried starting it. It doesn't turn over so I am assuming it is toast.
My first thoughts were 1.. how to change it out and 2.. how to put it in neutral to get it up to the shop.
I have another Robin engine so will steal the starter and burnt cables off of it but it looks like it will require the whole engine to be taken out to replace it.
Any thoughts or suggestion would be appreciated. I really need the tractor this week. I use it every day

 

[ponytug]

Yikes! That sounds like a close one, and quick action on your part!

Towing requires opening the bypass port; I would check your manual before attempting to move it.

I've never replace a Kohler starter, so I can't help you there, but I'd be inclined to try to fix it where it is, if possible to do safely.

Any thoughts about why / how it might have overheated / shorted?

All the best,

Peter

 

[MossRoad]

Sorry for your troubles.

There's either a bypass valve on the tram pump or there's two ports that have to be connected with a jumper hose in order to tow it without damaging the tram pump. Mine has jumper hose. When it's connected, I can push the unit with one hand very easily. Overinflating the tires makes rolling it a lot easier.

As for the starter, I have a Kohler, not a Robbin like yours. The Kohler is easily swapped out without removing the engine, as long as you have a bit of dexterity. Take some time, look it over, and consult an engine manual if you can. I can change my Kohler starter in about 15 minutes.

ALSO- ASSUMING IT IS TOAST forced me to purchase a new starter when the only problem was I had the PTO switch in the ON position!!! Now I have a spare starter.

So if you haven't checked that first, please do.

 

[MossRoad]

Consult this post for bypass hose, if it applies to you. Lots of discussion, my solution, and where the ports are located.

If it doesn't apply to you, and you have a bypass valve, please disregard....

Dead battery, broken exhaust stud, tow ports, gas tanks, welding, carbs.... YIKES!

My 2001 model year PT425 battery died. The metal battery hold down strap wore through the case and that was that. As many of you know, on this iteration of PT425 layout, the muffler has to be removed to get the battery out. Four nuts on four studs.... three came off... one stud snapped very...

www.tractorbynet.com

 

[m5040]

The whole thing could have been caused by the starter staying "on" or if it stuck engaged. Check it out good before you burn up a new starter. Did the ignition switch stick in start position? Is there a relay that got stuck in start? Or just the starter itself? If the starter remained trying to start with engine running for a long enough time, it willl burn up like that. Battery may be way low too.