March 01, 2017

How to replace the starter solenoid on a riding lawn mower

This DIY riding mower repair guide gives step-by-step instructions for replacing the starter solenoid on a riding lawn mower. When you turn the ignition key to the start position, the starter solenoid sends current to the starter. If you don’t hear the internal solenoid contact click when you turn the key, replace the solenoid because it's not working. Replace the starter solenoid with a manufacturer-approved riding lawn mower part using the steps in this guide..

This repair procedure works for common Craftsman, MTD, Troybilt, Toro, Husqvarna, Murray, Cub Cadet and Ariens riding mowers and lawn tractors.

Quick links

Video

Instructions

Tools required

Wrench set

Work gloves

Repair difficulty

Time required

30 minutes or less

Replacing a starter solenoid on a riding lawn mower

This video explains how to replace the starter solenoid on a riding lawn mower.

Instructions

01.
Remove the battery
Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
Turn the ignition switch off and remove the key.
Lift the seat.
Remove the bolt connecting the negative cable to the battery.
Lift the insulating cover and remove the bolt connecting the positive cable to the battery.
Lift the battery out of the battery box.
PHOTO: Disconnect the battery cables.
02.
Remove the battery box
Release the seat switch wire harness clip from the seat bracket to create slack in the harness.
Release retaining tabs and lift the battery box out of the mower body.
Set the box on the fender.
PHOTO: Lift out the battery box.
03.
Remove the starter solenoid
Note the location of wires connected to the starter solenoid.
Remove the mounting nuts from the terminal posts and pull the wires from the posts.
Pull the wires from the coil spades.
Remove the starter solenoid mounting bolt from the mower frame.
Rotate the starter solenoid forward and pull it out of the mower.
Tip: Take a photo of the connections to help you reconnect them correctly.
PHOTO: Remove the mounting bolt.
04.
Install the new starter solenoid
Transfer the mounting clip from the old starter solenoid to the new one.
Position the new starter solenoid on the frame and install the mounting bolt.
Connect the wires to the coil spades.
Install the wires on the terminal posts, connecting them with the mounting nuts.
PHOTO: Connect the wires to the starter solenoid terminal posts.
05.
Reinstall the battery box
Position the battery box in the opening and align the wire harness and battery cables.
Lower the battery box into the mower body and engage the retaining tabs.
Reconnect the seat switch wire harness clip to the seat bracket.
PHOTO: Reconnect the seat switch wire harness clip.
06.
Reinstall the battery
Lower the battery into the battery box.
With the insulating cover positioned on the cable, reconnect the positive battery cable to the positive battery terminal.
Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative battery terminal.
Lower the seat.
PHOTO: Reconnect the battery cables.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.