Single Click When Starting

[massey184ferguson]

Now when I start my tractor I get a single click. However when I try it again it starts up every time. Never lets me down. Battery has not been charged or replaced for probably 15 years. What could this be?

 

[mitch becton]

is your starter solenoid a part of the starter or is it mounted elsewhere

 

[wolftree]

You have a 15 year old battery and are asking why it clicks? I wonder what miracle allows it to start.

 

[burnieman]

It couldn't be the battery. Those things are good for at least 25 years. Check the radiator and make sure the fluid level is ok.

 

[banjodunn]

G'day I'm with Mitch I reckon starter solenoid is on way out if it starts ok on second hit up then I would say battery is prob ok.

Jon

 

[compact]

You may have a pitted / dirty solenoid washer and contact. Take the solenoid off and flip the washer over and lightly dress the contact posts and clean off any oil / fuel residue and misc gunk until everything is shiny copper.

 

[lmalcomb]

might take the battery out and drive a new tractor under it.

 

[jinman]

You may have a pitted / dirty solenoid washer and contact. Take the solenoid off and flip the washer over and lightly dress the contact posts and clean off any oil / fuel residue and misc gunk until everything is shiny copper.

I agree, it's a common problem that leads to lots of batteries and starters replaced unnecessarily. You have to be brave enough to take the solenoid apart, but pitted contacts is the most likely culprit. If the battery reads 12.5 volts or more when charged and will hold that, it's probably still fine, especially if it cranks the engine over fine when the starter works properly.

 

[silverflare]

Thanks for the help guys on this issue I was having has well. (Click on key turn) Indeed it was a pitted deep dark brown look to washer and nut on the solenoid. (I have the solenoid and starter in one unit). I changed out the washer. Clean up the 1/2" nut and battery cable connections. Turned over right off. I think my charging of the battery might have sparked the connection as I look back on this. But, we are working again and thanks to this web site.