Quote:
Originally Posted by teejk
runs at 30F but not at 12F...start with an oil change I think! SAE 30 is the spec for >32F but then Kohler says drop to a multi-vis oil of 5W-20 or 5W-30 (can go 10W also but only down to 0F and if you are already 12F in December, skip that stage and go directly to the 5W).
all kidding aside (maybe not), give all your connections a shot of WD40 (key switch, PTO switch and solenoid).
"stiff oil" might be your problem but that starter should still turn it better than what you describe.
So trying the cheapest stuff first. I'd check voltage to the solenoid and then to the starter. Then I'd check grounds (battery to frame is easy enough but then realize that the front bolt of your starter holds a ground wire that attaches to your frame on the right front corner where the "nose" meets the frame).
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What good is WD-40 going to do for corroded electrical connections?
If it turns over at all, the problem is not the solenoid or the wiring that activates it...it will either work properly or not. I agree that all of the grounds need to be checked and cleaned if necessary. Before doing too much I would remove the starter and check on the condition of the brushes and commutator. If the brushes are worn and commutator dirty it may be weak. The cables from the battery to solenoid and solenoid to starter can corrode and develop high resistance, causing them to get hot, but I suspect the problem in this case lies within the starter itself. If the starter started smoking, the wiring to it is probably capable of carrying the amount of current it needs.