Tractor Repair: Tractor wont turn over, ford new holland, starter solenoid

Question
I have a Ford New Holland 1725 and it won't turn over. I turn the key and get one click then all the dash lights go off. Battery is fine. Replaced the starter. Any ideas would be appreciated.

Answer

   Hello,

   I used to work for a dealer that sold these, and I seem to remember a couple of them that would blow a fuse that would prevent them from starting.  No clue why the fuse would blow, just replaced the fuse and it would be fine.  If the problem was a safety switch, like in the seat, on the shift levers, pto lever, clutch pedal, etc., then the starter shouldn't even click.  (Unless something else besides the starter is clicking.) Power from the switch to the starter has to go thru all these safety switches. Test the voltage at the starter while trying to start it.  If it's low, check battery cable connections and ground connection.  Have the battery load tested just to make extra sure it's good.  Check the connections on the key switch and wiring harness also. You could jump the starter solenoid connections to bypass everything just to see if the starter will turn, but I caution people to avoid that because of the safety issues.  NEVER do it without someone on the seat with their foot on the clutch so the tractor can't run over you.  Many people have been killed by machines that they were sure were in neutral, but accidents still happen.  If everything else is good, try to turn the engine by hand just to make sure something isn't locked up.

            Good luck,             Arnie