Starter problem finally solved

[Laneman950]

Thanks to all who helped me try to solve my starting problem. I finally traced it to an intermittently sticking neutral switch. I decided to reproduce the problem, then test like crazy. When it finally wouldn't start, I connected the leads on the neutral switch and it started. Every time it failed to crank I could immediately solve it by shorting the switch leads with a screwdriver. Now I plan to remove the switch and see if there are any moving parts that are sticking, or possibly adjust it. I wonder if oil will come out of the tranny when I pull the switch out... In other good news I was running the tractor and a noise developed that sounded like a water pump. I tried the old "listen with a wood stick" trick and traced it to a loose air cleaner cover rattle. Life is good now. Every one have a safe and fun 4th. Remember how blessed you are to live in the U.S.A.

 

[BTDT]

Glad you got it figured out. Happy 4th to you too, and thanks for your service to our country.

 

[flusher]

Thanks to all who helped me try to solve my starting problem. I finally traced it to an intermittently sticking neutral switch. I decided to reproduce the problem, then test like crazy. When it finally wouldn't start, I connected the leads on the neutral switch and it started. Every time it failed to crank I could immediately solve it by shorting the switch leads with a screwdriver. Now I plan to remove the switch and see if there are any moving parts that are sticking, or possibly adjust it. I wonder if oil will come out of the tranny when I pull the switch out... In other good news I was running the tractor and a noise developed that sounded like a water pump. I tried the old "listen with a wood stick" trick and traced it to a loose air cleaner cover rattle. Life is good now. Every one have a safe and fun 4th. Remember how blessed you are to live in the U.S.A.

I just pulled the neutral safety switch from my 1964 MF-135 diesel. No fluid leaked out (the switch is screwed into the top of the transmission case). The switch is OK, but I'll replace it anyway since I'm rewiring this 43-year old tractor.