1863 Kohler command 18hp
 

Sorry if this has been addressed in the past but I have a starter issue. Ever since I've owned this tractor it's always been a pain to start. I have to turn the key on and off several times and maybe get a hammer a rap the starter to get it to turn over. I finally purchased a new starter but when I put it on, I still had the same problem. In fact it was worse. I've check that I have enough volts at the starter in both the main line and the remote wire. I'm thinking it's sometime of relay or an issue with the wiring not carrying enough amps. Does anyone know what the issue is or a bypass/fix to get the starter going. I thought new starter would fix the issue but no.

First, welcome to OCC.......... :Welcome2:

A couple of things come to mind:
* You may have a bad Ignition Switch, intermittently working.
* The Battery Cables (both Positive and Ground), need to be clean, bright, and tight, on both ends.
* Lastly, the Starter Solenoid maybe be bad (dirty and/or dry).

Hitting the starter with a hammer will break the magnets that are attached to the starter housing so stop doing it.
As Roland said check all the connections but this helped out my 2284.

Here is a write up about a starter relay issue you are having and how this will help.

https://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/...ad.php?t=38545

Welcome to the Kohler click and no start. Simple and cheap fix is to add a relay. This is one I added to my 1864. I had the relay laying around so that's what got used.

starter relay
 

I thought about adding a starter relay. I had to do this on a Volkswagen Cabriolet I had because of heat soak on the starter stopping the magnets from doing thier jobs. DO you have a suggestion on which starter relay to use?

This is perfect, we have an 1863 with similar issues. Turns out the real issue ends up being the battery connectors. Wiggle them around a bit and she fires right up. I would suggest making sure battery terminals and connectors are clean.

Ours doesn't have any relay, probably contributes to the issue it has but we've always been able to get it to start up just by monkeying with the battery connectors a bit. I would install the relay as it might be a different issue entirely.

Oh, except our 1863 has the automotive-type clamp connectors, not sure what yours would have.

I purchased a relay thru ebay. Has a spade type fuse. Cured my click no start. You can "jump" the solenoid to check functionality of the solenoid/starter.


https://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/...pictureid=7892

John Deere also had a Starter Relay fix for the 318/420 tractors...

Amazon $12
 

I purchased a starter relay on Amazon. I like the 4 pole variety because then I had a dedicated ground wire. However after hook up she starts on every turn of the key now. Thanks guys for the help.

We are always glad to help and we appreciate your generous donations to the boss man. :beerchug: