View Full Version : John Deere L118 starter
dmartz
Oct 28, 2007, 10:54 AM
Have a John Deere L118 with a Briggs and Stratton engine. Starter turns but won't engage engine, sort of like an old car with a flat spot on the flywheel. Is there an adjustment on these starters? It's three years old with about 115 hours on it.
MOWERMAN2468
Oct 28, 2007, 11:32 AM
More than likely, you will find that the nylon bendix gear on the top side of the starter is stripped out. You can purchase the gear kit for a lot less than a new starter.
dmartz
Oct 28, 2007, 01:55 PM
Thanks for the response. I just took it apart and the nylon gear is intact and spins when the starter is engaged but doesn't move the 3/4" or so it needs to engage the flywheel. Do they just freeze up over time? I can't even seem to get it to move with a screwdriver or anything.
MOWERMAN2468
Oct 30, 2007, 03:31 PM
Well it is bad then probably. They usually will move even when they begin to wear out. The gear not moving without a screwdriver prying on it sounds as though the inside of the gear is worn. Carry to the shop and let them look at it.