When I turn the ignition key no hour meter reading and no power. I checked the battery cable and the fuse, all are OK. The tractor was running fine just minutes before this problem, so the battery is fine. Before this problem I had a sticky starter - would occasionally have to bump start using the ignition to get past the dead spot. But never had a major failure like this.
The problem occurred yesterday when I tried to restart it. I heard a pop sound when turning the ignition key on and at that very moment I lost the hour meter display and all power. I let the tractor sit for a few minutes while I checked under the hood. Turned the key to 'lights on' - had power to the lights; but when I turned the key to start the motor I lost all power again.
This morning I went outside to start it. At first when I turned the ignition key to 'lights on' I had the hour meter display operational, but when I turned the key to start the motor I lost all power again. Does anyone know what might be the problem. Repair center is 40 miles away.

--I just tested the starter by connecting it directly to the battery. The engine turned over without a problem. That eliminates the battery and starter.
--I purchased and installed a new solenoid, but still have the same problem. No power.

Does anyone know how to test the ignition or have any other suggestions?

Checked fuses? Checked for any wires that may be grounding out?

Checked fuses? checked for any wires that may be grounding out?

Thank you for your suggestion. I checked all wire connections and fuses and discovered that I had to clean the battery terminal connectors. Problem solved.

Thanks