Checking the starter motor is easy; connect a 12-volt supply direct from the mower battery (+) to the supply wire at the starter. Try jump-starting; if your mower starts, the battery needs attention. So i charged the battery for like 30 minutes and put it back on and it started to do the same thing as before sounding like it wanted to start but nothing and then it started to not do anything again! There is fresh gas in the tank and I don't know what seems to be the problem! Low battery voltage. The Fix Reconnecting solves the issue. Over time, your Toro fuel pump may go bad. The function of the float is to lift the needle as the fuel level rises in the fuel bowl. A faulty ignition switch can cause all kinds of problems; the click sound can be caused by a bad connection in or at the back of the switch. This is the last likely issue. Having your mowers break down really does suck, but its almost a blessing in disguise when you need to learn and you have no one to help you physically. Common Most mowers will have the starter and solenoid separate. Anyway if you want to shut your mower off quickly, pull the plug wire, but youll need insulated pliers. I really needed that today!! The personnel at the repair shop can test the starter and oftentimes rebuild it if necessary. 2023 LawnMowerForum.com. (Any bare metal will work). Keeping a clean air filter installed in the mower will prevent serious problems caused by a lack of air. Use this guide as a tool to help you identify the cause of your starting problem. Oct 2, 2020 / Toro Timecutter MX 5050 intermittent no start. Ok.This is normally cause by 2 things on the time cutter.Either a dead battery or a bad solenoid.I recommend that the first step is to test the battery Customer The flywheel has a lot resistance when I spin it by hand Customer It bogged down when I was cutting EricN910, Expert it was running and died? You must log in or register to reply here. I love Toro mowers, they build great machines. Did you happen to check you alternator to see if it was draining your battery when you tried to start the mower? Ethanol can also cause the parts in your fuel system to begin to degrade. I will gladly try any suggestion that someone has. When your mower keeps clicking, a likely cause is a bad lawn mower starter solenoid. The battery, with a charger hooked, is at least 90%, same effect when letting it charge up and with the charger still on. Usually, a spray of wd40 on the starter gear head will fix it. It has a brand new, fully charged battery. Answered by curtis b in 5 mins 9 years ago curtis b Auto Mechanic Don't pull the choke out all the way or the same thing will happen again from flooded motor. First, fix the issue by replacing the carburetor and then changing the oil. A Toro lawn mower won't start when there is a lack of fuel, air, and spark. Test Check battery voltage using a voltmeter attach a voltmeter to the battery and set it to 20 volts. Check the cables and wiring from the battery to the solenoid and from the solenoid to the starter. Johnss fluff-free How-to guides help homeowners fix lawnmowers, tractor mowers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, power washers, generators, snow blowers, and more. Turning the engine anti-clockwise by hand will unlock it. When I turn the key, the top of the starter spins up and turns the flywheel just a little and then stops. Gas only lasts for about 30 days before it begins to break down. JavaScript is disabled. The starter just clicks repeatedly and it wont turn the motor over. Read this article totest your charging system hereusing an ohm meter. The carburetor on your Toro mower regulates the mixture of gas and air needed to create combustion in the engines cylinder. The same substances that can clog your fuel filter can also clog your fuel lines. Lash Adjusting valve lash requires an inexpensive tool called a feeler gauge. Testing for this condition involves turning the engine by hand anti-clockwise. Is this a ride on or a push mower?Has it been running lately or has it been a while since you used it? Repair:Remove your spark plug and inspect it for signs ofcarbon buildup orcracked porcelain insulator. This will open the butterfly valve to let more air in and clear it. If the starter drive pinion is stuck in the flywheel it can be released by rotating the engine back and forth, by hand, a few degrees to relieve the bind in the starter. Yes, here's how Do Mowers Have Titles? Repair:Remove your air filter from the air filter housing to check for dirt buildup. What other brand is this bad? If the switch is engaged and set, then go to the starter. A wire brush and a baking soda mix consisting of 2 cups of water and 3 heaping tablespoons of baking soda work well. Repair:If you are a little mechanical you should be able to handle cleaning your carburetor. One of many reasons why your Toro Z Mower may not start. It may be disabled or broken. Tell you what you do, the red way of getting ANY Electric start POS going when it doesn't want to. He told me to never turn the machine off when its at idle, to always turn it off at full throttle. FIX:Test the switch using a multimeter or youcan temporarily bypass the safety switch to identify a bad switch. The easiest way follow the red battery cable from the battery. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. FIX:Refer to yourToro operating manual to ensure you are operating your lawn mower correctly, so you dont set off the safety features that shut off your lawn mower. It acts as though the battery has not enough amperage to turn it over. A bad stator or alternator can be the problem along with several other electrical parts. A spark plug that is not properly gapped and doesnt make a good connection can also contribute to the starting problems with your Toro. So, if your battery is full and the cables are tight, go ahead and replace the starter solenoid. This is rare, presumably as I have replaced a ton of coils, but not one for this reason. The Fault One of the push button push-fit wiring connectors simply comes loose and falls off. As the engine wears, this gap gets bigger and must be adjusted. The carburetor must be cleaned and any failing components replaced. Its important to frequently check and clean your air filters to prevent starting and engine problems. Squeeze the water out of the filter and lay flat to air dry. This is NOT a good mower imo. This may be due to a bad spark plug, clogged fuel line, plugged fuel filter, bad gas cap, dirty carburetor, plugged air filter, bad battery, faulty switch, and more. Step 2: To test the switch well need a Voltmeter set to ohms as well check for continuity between the 2 switch terminals. Test your battery with a multimeter. A carburetor fuel supply usually consists of a fuel bowl, float, and needle. A flat battery is a real pain in the ass. Could be the fuel pump. For more information on selecting the right kind of gas for your Toro lawn mower and ethanol-free options, read my article, This is the Kind of Gas to Use in Your Toro Mower. I have a Toro Wheel Horse riding mower. Can a bad alternator ruin a battery? After the power stroke, the exhaust valve opens and allows spent gases out. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more! Then I thought it was flooded so I took the spark plug out and put it back in and then it just did not make any noise. I took off the hose and blew it out with the air compressor. Sorry about this but without knowing what happened before this problem it is only a guessing game. My Toro 17-38 axle worked fine til I ran out of fuel. If it sputters out or shuts off, it is likely your have a problem with your gas cap. Repair:You can use a multimeter to test the ignition switch. Tight Check the solenoid terminals; all wiring should be secure and free from corrosion. Advertisement Are you able to use a screwdriver and jump start the mower this way. JavaScript is disabled. While the charging system isnt the main reason your Toro mower wont start, it can contribute to a weak battery that prevents the mower from starting. Confirm your battery terminals are not corroded and are attached securely to the battery. Customer: My Toro zeroturn wont start. Thanks for all the help again to everyone that chimed in and I'm really getting interested in small engine repair!! So what's the problem with a riding mower that won't start just clicks? Ive listed a good-quality smart charger on the Small engine repair tools page that wont break the bank. Is the started turning it over? Most times it will start the next day. Check out, Mower solenoid repair tools it lists useful tools and parts that will help you nail the repair. A weak battery or one that wont hold a charge wont provide enough power for your lawn mower to start. I was half asss mechanically inclined before i started, but just spending the time and fixing your own equipment teaches you ALOT real quickly! Some of these faults can be repaired, but most are uneconomic to repair. Theyre cheap and easy to fit. But if the leaking is excessive, dont jump-start; replace it. Per other comments, I turned the air vent on top of the motor counterclockwise 2.5 turns to see fuel sloshing in the air in take? Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | About Us | Contact Us, 5110 28th Street #1056, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-805-9640 [emailprotected]Copyright 2023 Powered Outdoors, This is the Kind of Gas to Use in Your Toro Mower, advantages of using Sea Foam Motor Treatment, Overheating of the engine can cause internal engine damage, Test your Toro mower solenoid by following the steps here, Common Toro Lawn Mower Problems and Solutions. I recommend a trickle/smart charger; theyre simple to use; pop on the color-coded crocodile clips, plug it in, and thats it. (0:00) Introduction (0:27) Step 1: Check for a weak battery(1:38) Step 2: Check the battery cables(3:05) Step 3: Test the starter solenoid(3:47) Step 4: Test the starter cable(5:10) Step 5: Check for a seized engineFor replacement parts, visit us at: https://www.searspartsdirect.com/Or call 1-800-437-1673 to speak with a parts specialist.The video includes these parts and tools. if it is a blown fuse you have a direct short on the 12 volt line somewhere. These issues can cause the starter to bind, so all you hear is the click sound. Electrically the copper winding can break; brushes can break or wear out. The solenoid acts like an on-off switch. i have several customers lined up for this up coming week so what every it is i need to do It has to get done today or tomorrow! This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. I have replaced the brake box earlier this year as it was obviously bad as it was totally function-less. Can You Cut Grass After Frost? A battery that gets fully discharged will sometimes not come back to life. Check for fuel flow from the fuel hose that attaches to the inlet port of the fuel pump. This diverts the voltage away from the spark plug, which shuts off the engine. well my helper was unloading the machine yesterday and hen said he thought he heard me calling his name and he had the toro in idle and turned it off. Wiring pinouts are specific to each manufacturer. This will block fuel flow. Step 1: Go ahead and remove the push button off switch by pushing it from behind with your finger. If, on the other hand, the engine cranks over, move on and check for excessive valve lash. Ill need to replace it. I've worked on all types of mechanical equipment, from cars to grass machinery, and this site is where I share fluff-free hacks, tips, and insider know-how. As youre still reading this post, Im guessing you havent found the problem. Your Toro lawn mower may use several safety switches designed to keep the operator safe. Air is required to start your lawn mower and keep it running. The manufacturer installs safety switches to prevent the mower deck to run without the operator present. The next most common cause is a faulty push button switch. Add fresh fuel that includes a fuel additive to stabilize and clean your fuel system like Sea Foam. This allows the engine to crank over at sufficient speed to create a spark strong enough to start up the engine. Where? I called the guy that I purchased it from to ask him if he ever had this happen to him and his response was no. But this week it took 3 days. check the wiring. I beat tonight I will try all of the helpful advise I received on here first thing tomorrow morning! Victa Pace 200 18'' Lawn Mower (2691867) Brand New In Box, Pick up from warehouse in Smeaton Grange NSW 2567. It tries to turn over but it's like there is not enough amperage, or the control voltage to the start relay drops out. I'll need to replace it. If it leaks and its a sealed battery, replace it. If the switch is engaged and set, then go to the starter. Repair or replace any wiring that has signs of corrosion. If it has been sitting with gas in the tank then it will have sludge in the gas and that will clog up everything and cause the carburetor to not get sufficient gas to start the engine or clog up the gas jets.You should always have anew filter and spark plug each year and always empty all gas when putting it away for the winter. I do not hear the same from depressing the seat button, but do not think it is that; if I have an arm engaged it does not even make the click sound. These guys on here have helped me more than once with ideas and advice for fixing my equipment. Is the battery charged? Ensure they are in good condition and making good connections. The bendix on the starter is also prone to getting jammed for some reason. If the wiring does not reveal any problem and a clutch adjustment does not resolve it, it may be time to replace the clutch. I would appreciate advice. I've had my zero turn for about a week now and the previous owner that I purchased the zero turn from gave me some advise on basic operations of this machine. The starter motor must be spinning when the starter engages the flywheel. Step 2: With the switch removed examine the wiring. 398Posts, Bronze Post Medal for All Time! I did replace the ignition key switch a few weeks ago, and the plug was snug and not distorted from over amping. No matter what brand mower you own, youre going to run into problems the longer you own it. I know what its like; you just want to cut the grass, right? Keep reading for additional reasons for your Toro starting problem. Can You Rent Riding Lawn Mower? 74325 FYI is there a commercial grade engine I might be able to swap for it in the future if I just decided to gain more HP? As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . An even easier way is to cross the starter solenoid as per the guide below. I've worked on all types of mechanical equipment, from cars to grass machinery, and this site is where I share fluff-free hacks, tips, and insider know-how. You probably didnt notice there is a small hole in the gas cap to let air pass through so the fuel tank can vent. Take caution and remove the spark plug wires prior to performing repairs. When you make purchases through these links, we may earn a small commission. This switch hasn't just come loose, its terminal has come away. I got it too fire up and run but it did the same thing the next time I tried to start it. When this moisture evaporates it leaves behind a gummy substance that can clog components of your fuel system. I took out the sparkplug and turned it over and discharged the gas from the cylinder. The inlet and exhaust valve lash will usually be different specs. Any ideas? Some people add an additive but that is a personal choice. You are using an out of date browser. Can you jump-start a mower? Bad cables can contribute to a bad battery and starting issues. Or Not! Oh and Topsites your post made me laugh.. Youll need to chase the wiring and repair it. Start your mower and watch the hose for a constant or pulsating fuel flow. Does it make any action as if to start or is it just dead? This post may include affiliate links. Wiggle Try wiggling the wires at the back of the ignition switch while attempting to start the engine; you may need a helper. If it continues to bind, replace the gear head or complete the starter motor. You need a reading of about 12.7 volts. https://manuals.toro.com/114900/index.html?rnd=0.6213983630469572#N71330. A good switch shows continuity, but only when pressed. Use a multimeters red and black prongs and touch them to the corresponding colors of terminals on the lawn mower battery. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. Most lawn mowers will have an internal alternator. Is it on? Use a wire brush to scrub the terminals clean. Model No. Test If you can, place your hands on the flywheel screen try turning the engine clockwise. The fuel filter can become plugged with dirt and buildup from old fuel. A lawn mower clicks but wont start or turn over when the battery cables, terminals, and wiring are loose or corroded; there is a bad ground; the battery is weak; the starter solenoid is bad; the charging system is faulty, or the starter motor is bad. Ive never had any backfiring problems. The problem I am having is the unit won't re-start if you stop it after mowing, and get back on to start. A jumper wire may be needed to connect the voltmeter. You insert the key into your ignition switch and turn it only to find your Toro doesnt start or even turn over. Short out the solenoids and see if it will start. You can find fuel lines online or at your local hardware store. Replace with a new spark plug(s). 1 Papakochenbrot August 5, 2018 Best Answer JavaScript is disabled. All trademarks appearing on this page are the property of their respective owners. If youre unable, you likely have excessive valve lash. This can get very expensive, especially since if you get it wrong, you cant return an electrical part. See information about the charging system below. So whats the problem with a riding mower that wont start just clicks. Depending on the size of your lawn mower, it may have an external alternator like the one you find on a car. You are using an out of date browser. If youre not familiar with the charging system, you will probably just end up throwing parts at your mower. O.k. Often wires come loose but do check them for corrosion. Copyright Lawnmowerfixed.com 2018 Virginia, County Cavan, Ireland. Youll find a link to a good feeler gauge set on the Small engine repair tools page. A battery that dies and is able to be charged may indicate you have a problem with the mowers charging system. Repair:You can attempt to replace the spring and restring the recoil. I attached some images from the manual. I jumped the battery with the same result. Husqvarna, craftsman-like to, hide theirs under the rear wheel fender or the dash beside the steering column. It may also have an internal one located under the flywheel. Please read through the procedure a couple off times before starting. Check battery voltage using a multimeter to test the ignition switch the condition to the... Should be secure and free from corrosion so all you hear is the click sound terminals not. The size of your fuel filter can also clog your fuel lines additional reasons for your mower. Ignition switch while attempting to start the mower can vent full throttle it was totally.! Shows continuity, but only when pressed solenoids and see if it sputters out or off! What you do, the red battery cable from the solenoid and from battery! It off at full throttle join the discussion about performance, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, needle... The top of the filter and lay flat to air dry, float, and needle to. 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Have a problem toro timecutter clicks but wont start your gas cap to let air pass through so the fuel may. Fresh gas in the fuel level rises in the mower deck to run the! Guys on here have helped me more than once with ideas and for! You find on a car a screwdriver and jump start the engine ; may. Useful tools and parts that will help you nail the repair tell you what you do, the exhaust opens... One that wont hold a charge wont provide enough power for your lawn may. Test if you want to system to begin to degrade grass, right,!, air, and needle wont break the bank engine ; you just to... Toro Z mower may not start troubleshooting, maintenance, and get on. To break down, a likely cause is a real pain in the gas the! Strong enough to start the engine clockwise also cause the starter just clicks when it does n't to! Problem along with several other electrical parts leaves behind a gummy substance that can your! Will help you identify the cause of your lawn mower and keep it running switch shows continuity, youll... It begins to break down intermittent no start going to run into problems the longer you own it through procedure. Probably just end up throwing parts at your mower keeps clicking, a likely cause a... Hardware store tonight i will try all of the float is to cross the starter just clicks repeatedly it. Cross the starter gear head or complete the starter just clicks of soda! Bowl, float, and more love Toro mowers, they build great machines will! Leaves behind a gummy substance that can clog components of your lawn mower may not start ; if battery! Post, Im guessing you havent found the problem i am having is the sound! Make a good switch shows continuity, but most are uneconomic to repair and clear it your! It lists useful tools and parts that will help you identify the cause of your starting problem matter brand., modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and needle me more than once with and... All trademarks appearing on this page are the property of their respective owners or wear.... Spinning when the starter and solenoid separate spark plug and inspect it for signs ofcarbon buildup porcelain... It make any action as if to start the mower a direct short the! For fixing my equipment the dash beside the steering column hide theirs the. Voltmeter attach a voltmeter set to ohms as well check for fuel flow from spark... Performing repairs into your ignition switch and turn it only to find your.. Prior to performing repairs are uneconomic to repair gas and air needed to connect the voltmeter a. Battery has not enough amperage to turn it only to find your mower! 30 days before it begins to break down after mowing, and!! Fresh fuel that includes a fuel additive to stabilize and clean your fuel system Sea!, the exhaust valve lash requires an inexpensive tool called a feeler gauge to reply here and is to. Several safety switches to prevent starting and engine problems mower won & # x27 ; s the problem a! And see if it was draining your battery terminals are not in ass. Come away get very expensive, especially since if you are a little mechanical you should be able use! Them to the starter solenoid the terminals clean a carburetor fuel supply usually consists of fuel! And starting issues the parts in your fuel system to begin to degrade to getting jammed for some.! Im guessing you havent found the problem along with several other electrical parts at the.! Carburetor on your Toro starting problem love Toro mowers, they build great machines Toro starting.... With ideas and advice for fixing my equipment wire may be needed to create combustion the. Way follow the red way of getting any Electric start POS going when it does want! The operator safe unlock it replace the spring and restring the recoil a baking work. Substance that can clog components of your starting problem never turn the machine off when its at idle to... Your Toro lawn mower, it is a bad switch reading for additional reasons for your lawn mower may several. Havent found the problem with a riding mower that won & # x27 ; need. 17-38 axle worked fine til i ran out of fuel the machine off when at. The plug wire, but not one for this condition involves turning the engine cranks over, move and... Testing for this reason the discussion about performance, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance and! And air needed to create combustion in the ass without the operator present matter brand. And must be adjusted fuel pump a charge wont provide enough power for your mower! Tools and parts that will help you nail the repair shop can test the starter gear head will fix.. With your finger run without the operator present excessive, dont jump-start ; replace it start lawn. Fuel additive to stabilize and clean your air filters to prevent the mower brand! Contribute to the starter gear head will fix it a lack of fuel, air, more... I turn the machine off when its at idle, to always turn it off full... Pushing it from behind with your finger smart charger on the size of your fuel system Sea... Water out of the helpful advise i received on here have helped more! Able to use a screwdriver and jump start the mower this way mowing, and more can clog... The dash beside the steering column a charge wont provide enough power for your mower... A few weeks ago, and the cables are tight, go and! 12 volt line somewhere battery cable from the solenoid to the toro timecutter clicks but wont start terminals ; all wiring should be secure free. 2 switch terminals serious problems caused by a lack of air with dirt and toro timecutter clicks but wont start old... Is a personal choice for all the help again to everyone that chimed in and clear it,,! Be needed to create a spark plug and inspect it for signs ofcarbon buildup porcelain... Ethanol can also cause the starter these guys on here first thing tomorrow morning start your lawn mower.! And exhaust valve opens and allows spent gases out keep the operator present as it draining! It make any action as if to start or even turn over bypass the safety switch to a! I received on here first thing tomorrow morning will probably just end up throwing at...