Craftsman Riding Mower Fuel Solenoid: Replacing The Right Way

If your Craftsman riding mower is acting up, you may need to replace the fuel solenoid. This is a fairly simple process that can be done at home with some basic tools and safety equipment. Before starting, make sure you have work gloves to protect your hands, and it is recommended to clamp the fuel line to prevent the gas from draining. You will also need a wrench to unscrew the old solenoid and screw in the new one. Additionally, taking a photo of the connections can help you reconnect them correctly.

Symptoms of a bad fuel solenoid include stalling, loss of power, and the engine not starting. If you are experiencing these issues, replacing the fuel solenoid may be the solution. This repair procedure is common for Craftsman, MTD, Troybilt, Toro, Husqvarna, Murray, Cub Cadet, and Ariens riding mowers and lawn tractors.

When replacing the fuel solenoid, be sure to purchase a compatible part for your specific mower model. You can find replacement solenoids online or at lawn and garden equipment stores.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully replace the fuel solenoid on your Craftsman riding mower and get back to mowing your lawn with a well-functioning machine.

Disconnect the battery cables

Disconnecting the battery cables is an important step in replacing the starter solenoid on a riding lawn mower. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you safely and effectively complete this task:

• Turn off the ignition and remove the key: Before beginning any work on your riding mower, ensure that the ignition is switched off and the key has been removed for safety.
• Wear work gloves: It is recommended to wear work gloves to protect your hands during the repair process.
• Locate the battery: The battery is typically located in a battery box or battery compartment within the mower.
• Disconnect the negative cable: Identify the negative cable connected to the battery. This is usually indicated by a "-" symbol or a black cable. Loosen and remove the bolt or clamp that secures this cable to the battery terminal. Be sure to disconnect the negative cable first to reduce the risk of accidental short circuits.
• Disconnect the positive cable: Locate the positive cable, typically identified by a "+" symbol or a red cable. Lift or remove any insulating cover or protective cap that may be present. Loosen and remove the bolt or clamp connecting the positive cable to the battery terminal.
• Lift out the battery: With both cables disconnected, carefully lift the battery out of its housing or compartment. Place it in a safe location away from the work area.

By following these steps, you can safely disconnect the battery cables, allowing you to access and replace the starter solenoid on your Craftsman riding mower. Remember to exercise caution and refer to a repair guide or seek assistance if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Remove the battery box

To remove the battery box from your Craftsman riding mower, you will first need to release the seat switch wire harness clip from the seat bracket. This will create some slack in the harness. Next, locate and release the retaining tabs that hold the battery box in place, and lift the box out of the mower body. Set the box on the fender, or another safe, nearby surface.

At this point, the battery box should be free from the mower body, but still connected to the mower via the wire harness. Be careful not to strain or damage the wires as you set the box aside.

Remove the starter solenoid

To remove the starter solenoid from your Craftsman riding mower, you will need to wear work gloves to protect your hands. First, turn the ignition switch off and remove the key. Next, remove the bolt connecting the negative cable to the battery. Then, lift the insulating cover and remove the bolt connecting the positive cable to the battery. After that, lift the battery out of the battery box. Now, release the seat switch wire harness clip from the seat bracket to create slack in the harness. Remove the battery box by releasing the retaining tabs and lifting it out of the mower body. Set the box on the fender.

To remove the starter solenoid itself, note the location of the wires connected to it. Remove the mounting nuts from the terminal posts and pull the wires from the posts, then pull the wires from the coil spades. Finally, remove the starter solenoid mounting bolt from the mower frame. Rotate the starter solenoid forward and pull it out of the mower.

Install the new starter solenoid

To install the new starter solenoid, you will need to transfer the mounting clip from the old solenoid to the new one. Position the new solenoid on the frame and install the mounting bolt.

Next, connect the wires to the coil spades. Install the wires on the terminal posts, connecting them with the mounting nuts.

Now, you can reinstall the battery box. Position it in the opening and align the wire harness and battery cables. Lower the box into the mower body and engage the retaining tabs.

Finally, reconnect the seat switch wire harness clip to the seat bracket.

Reinstall the battery box

To reinstall the battery box, position the box in the opening and align the wire harness and battery cables. Lower the battery box into the mower body and engage the retaining tabs. Reconnect the seat switch wire harness clip to the seat bracket.

Frequently asked questions