Starter locked up?

TractorRob · Nov 4, 2010

I can't get my Mitsubishi MT3201D started. The last time I used it, it started up fine. Now, when I turn the key, all I get is a load click from the solenoid - the motor doesn't even appear to try to turn over. I can turn the motor over by hand, so I know the motor's not locked up. I do sometimes see a spark by the solenoid when I turn the key, but I have checked the wiring and it all seems to be good, and the battery is fully charged. I am wondering if the starter could be locked up. Does that even happen? Is there anything else it could be? Is there anything I can do short of replacing the starter to make sure it is the problem?

mitch becton · Nov 4, 2010

yes it is possible, but they are some ways to check the starter but you must be careful and make sure tractor is in neutral to do what i am going to suggest. the are two copper post on the starter solenoid one comes from battery the other is what is called a field wire it comes from within the starter get a good 12v power source possiblly a vehicle using battery cables connect to vehicle and ground other end of cables '-' side to possiblly the starter housing the positive side go directly to the field wire with igniton switch in the 'on' psoition if tractor starts or engine turns over the solenoid could be problem but if you still get a click then probably better to take starter to the local rebuilder for further inspection. if you dont know a local rebuilder just post your location i will direct you to one. or call me at 678-478-7427 i will help you all i can.

good luck

mitch becton

mitch becton · Nov 4, 2010

ok i am having a senior moment just saw your location of middel tenn. my biggest customer base is in tenn just let me know where and i can direct you to a rebuilder.

mitch becton

Soundguy · Nov 4, 2010

a spark?

if you see a spark there is a bad connection.

check all wires, terminals and ends.

substitute a fresh battery and just booster cables if needed.

check power to solenoid.. bypass solenoid as a test.. but be safe.. out of gear, clutch blocked.. etc..

soundguy

Willl · Nov 4, 2010

Ditto what SG said, you've got a connection fault.

A VOM meter could trace this down easily. :thumbsup:

TractorRob · Nov 5, 2010

Well, I got it started today. It was the wiring after all. When I checked it yesterday, it didn't check the wire from the solenoid to the starter. It's kind of on the back side of the solenoid and hard to see, plus it was already getting dark yesterday when I was checking the wiring and that wire just slipped my mind. The insistence that it was the wiring made me decide to double check that the first thing, that's when I realized I missed that wire. I unhooked it, cleaned up the connections, and hooked it back up and it started right up.

Thanks!