Gravel Tractor

[Farmall Bob]

Gentlemen,
The starter on my Gravely doesn't work very well. I have to turn the mechcanism backwards to find a good spot so the starter will pull the chain. I think that will be my next project? May be it only needs cleaning?
Bob
 

[joe csuti]

Check that all battery/electrial connection are clean/tight after that try to isolate problem to starter motor or clutch on starter gear.

Internal starter motor problems can be caused by rust/carbon buildup in motor,worn or sticking brushes,weak/bad springs on brush holders,armature that has burned/pitted commutator bars & needs a turning/undercutting or replacement,open/shorted coil in armature,grounded/shorted field coil,worn/bad bearings,if you isolate problem to starter motor you're better off taking same to a shop that repairs auto starters/generators & let them check & repair/rebuild motor as needed or look for a used/rebuilt motor on ebay or online.

If problem in gear clutch,goto old gravelys website & read manual for serviceing clutch.

Check name plate on starter motor for voltage of motor or try to determine year of tractor,early mod tractors used a 6v starter,later models used a 12v starter,you may be useing a 6v battery on a 12v starter or previous owner may have damaged starter by useing 12v on a 6v starter.
 

[DiyDave]

Sounds like a dead spot in the armature. Take it to a local rebuilder, not too bad of a fix, but them armatures ain't cheap.
 

[Farmall Bob]

Gentleman,
Probably I will work on it today, and let you know how things go. Thanks.
Bob
 

[Farmall Bob]

Gentlemen,
I disassembled the starter. "Wow what a mess"
The bushings are all worn out! One is made out of bronze and the other one looks like cast iron. I will let you know soon if I find something local to replace them. 1st I am going to use this parts Gravely and see if that one is any better. Thank you for the in-up.
Bob
 

[Farmall Bob]

Hi Dave,
Yes, the armature looks pretty worn, but looks evenly worn. Your are right it won"t hurt to have it machined, and have new bushing as well.
Bob
 

[Farmall Bob]

"Guess what"? The starter off the parts Gravely works! What a way to start the New Year! I am not through with this old beast as there is other issues that need to be ironed out so it will run the way it should. Thanks for the help.