Tractor Repair: Ford Tractor 5610, light gauge, ford tractor

Question
Ford tractor 5610. Problem starting the tractor,at first thought it was battery but was told battery is fine. Could problem be with battery leads or the starter?? If so how would i no??

Answer
Hello,

  The only way to know if the battery is good is to charge it, check the electrolyte with a hydrometer, and then load test it with a machine made for that purpose.  You didn't say how the battery was checked or why someone told you it is fine, but that is the only good way otherwise you're guessing.  If the battery is more than 5 years old, it is probably bad.  Sometimes they go longer than that, and sometimes less, but the normal life expectancy is about 5 years.  Make sure the cable connections on the battery and the starter are clean and tight.  Sometimes people replace the cables with light gauge cable because it's cheaper, but it is a bad idea.  Light gauge cable does not supply enough amperage to the starter no matter how good the battery is.  Also check the ground connection where the negative cable is attached to the engine or frame.  If all is good, then replace the starter.