[Hills David]

Just wondering if anyone has any advice.

I was mowing with a 19.5 HP LA110 John Deere in our paddock when the deck went over a sawn-off tree stump. The blades jammed and the mower stopped dead immediately.

I have pulled the mower off the stump and I can't see any problems, but now it won't start.

When I turn the key, all I get is a loud click (I guess a solenoid switch?) but the starter does not engage.

Any suggestions from anyone?

Cheers


David
(South Australia)

 

[rgd]

edited/deleted reply....I should not give advice at 230 in the morning

 

[RandyM]

Sorry for this but, I am going to start with the obvious first. You did dissengage the PTO and the put it in neutral first? Because it sounds like you are describing a safety switch is still engaged. Forgetting this can happen in an event like this, trust me, I know. :empathy:

 

[dieselshadow]

I agree with Randy. It's probably an electrical switch preventing you from starting. Your deck took the hit from the stump but the drive belt to the deck is your "mechanical fuse" and should prevent engine damage.

Is the click you hear the starter trying to engage the engine (louder noise) or a relay (not so loud click)? It may not be easy to tell the difference.

 

[OneMarineE5]

I also agree with RandyM and Dieselshadow.

It is probably safe to assume you attempted to restart the tractor immediately after hitting the stump. However, in the event that you elected to remove the deck and look for any possible damage prior to attempting to restart, it is possible you may have left the ignition key in the on position allowing the ignition system to remain energized. It may not take too long for the battery to become too weak and to create the clicking sound you are hearing.

I would suggest verifying the battery's current charge or attempting to jump-start the tractor.


Good luck and please let us know how you fareray:

 

[Hills David]

Thanks all (and thanks RGD for withdrawing your advice - you come up with some scary thoughts at 2.30am).

Turns out the battery lead had snapped, but the break was hidden so I couldn't see it (there is a smaller, secondary lead which was obviously feeding power to whatever was making the click).

I loaded the mower into my trailer, took it to the shop and the guy there diagnosed it in about 5 seconds. I bought another battery lead for AUD$11 and all is good now.

cheers



David

 

[RandyM]

Excellent, Back in Business.

Thank you for the update. :good2:

 

[OneMarineE5]

Thanks all (and thanks RGD for withdrawing your advice - you come up with some scary thoughts at 2.30am).

Turns out the battery lead had snapped, but the break was hidden so I couldn't see it (there is a smaller, secondary lead which was obviously feeding power to whatever was making the click).

I loaded the mower into my trailer, took it to the shop and the guy there diagnosed it in about 5 seconds. I bought another battery lead for AUD$11 and all is good now.

cheers



David

For just $11.00, sounds like a Christmas present! Happy tractoring David!