How To Repair Dethatcher Engine That Does Not Start
- Rated as REALLY EASY
- 5 step by step videos
Switch
If your electric starter does not work, check to ensure the switch is still working and its connections are secured. If the switch is broken or not connected properly, it will not start the engine when engaged. A continuity test can be performed with a multimeter to determine if the switch is faulty or not. Starter switches are fairly cheap to replace and can be removed and reinstalled with relative ease.
Battery
To find out if your dethather battery is dead, test it with a voltage meter. Make sure to fully charge your battery before testing. A dead battery will not be able to supply the starting mechanism with the current it needs to start the engine. Batteries will wear down over time and will need to be replaced eventually. If a new battery is required, refer to your user manual for the proper replacement part number to ensure a compatible battery replaces the old one.
Starter Relay
The starter relay (sometimes referred to as the starter solenoid) takes low voltage current from the battery and produces a higher voltage current that is used to prompt the starter motor to turn the starter gear and flywheel. Relays do wear over time and may need to be replaced. If you have confirmed that your battery, switch and motor are all in good working order but the electric start still will not work, it is likely that the relay is broken and will need to be replaced.
Starter Motor
A problem with the starter motor could keep your detatcher electric starter from working. It is a small electric motor that works with the starter gear, flywheel, and crankshaft when the starter motor is powered on. It is possible that the starter motor has burned out over time, due to overuse. This happens when the starter motor is run continuously, usually when the engine will not turn over. It is important to not continuously run the starter motor if you're having a problem getting your engine to start. These motors do wear over time with regular use and may need to be repaired or replaced at some point. A burned out starter motor may emit a melting-plastic smell. You can also check for visible signs of damage by removing the cover.
Starter Gear or Flywheel Gear
If your starter motor and switch work, but the engine is not being engaged when you hit the starter switch, there is likely an issue with the connection between the starter gear and flywheel gear. If the starter motor comes loose or is not secured properly, it can wobble when the gear rotates, causing damage to the teeth on both the start and flywheel gear. The starter gear is located on the side of the starter motor, and will be fitted to attach with the flywheel gear that is inside of the engine housing. If the starter or flywheel gear teeth are worn or broken, the damaged gear will need to be replaced. If both gears teeth look to be in good condition, they are likely just loose and need to be re-secured to ensure a strong connection.
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