hard starting JD MT

I have a JD MT that is very hard to start. Usually takes a minute of cranking and might start, might not. Today it never started. Could I have a bad switch? What other possibilities might be the problem? Suggestions? Bill

Have you checked for spark. Maybe points are corroded. How about fuel?

I had one with a bad switch. The switch was intermittent for ignition but worked for lights and charging. I added a toggle switch for ignition.

Start with a fully charged battery. I doubt that that is the problem because you said that it is always a hard starting tractor. Some times the battery has enough juice to run the starter but then the ignition system isn't getting enough juice.

Block off the carb. inlet with your hand and see if that increases the fuel into the intake. If it fires more quickly, then it might be as simple as making your choke plate be more efficient by making an adjustment to it.

[b:654c4848f0][i:654c4848f0]Could I have a bad switch[/i:654c4848f0][/b:654c4848f0]

You might consider checking both terminals on the coil using a test light.

Turn the ignition switch to the LO CHARGING position.



Next check the NEGATIVE terminal for power coming from the ignition switch.



If the test light shines, then there is power to the coil; otherwise check the ignition switch and/or the lead wire from the ignition and accessory terminal.



Next check the POSITIVE terminal for power from the coil.



If the test light shines, then there is power through the coil; otherwise replace the coil.

Next check for power at the distributor terminal stud.



If the test light shines, then there is power from the coil; otherwise repair/replace the lead wire to the distributor.

Next check for power inside the distributor.



Note the stud terminal bushing.

Next check for power at the terminal stud inside the distributor.



If the test light shines, then there is power from the terminal stud to the points; otherwise check the stud terminal bushing.

Next check for power from the points.



If the test light shines, then there is power from the points.

Check the points gap and adjust to .022 if necessary.



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Turn the ignition switch to the LO CHARGING position.

Crank the engine and check for spark at the points.

If there is a spark when the points OPEN, then the primary circuit is working; otherwise you might consider replacing the condenser.



We have one MT that has gone through many condensers; even new ones.

Hope this helps.