HARD STARTING CUB

[Maritimer]

GRRRRRRRR, my cub is hard to start! I thought it was the battery,so I went out and bought a new 6 volt. It starts fine on 12volt but 6v, it acts like the battery is dead. ANy ideas what the problem could be? It turns over hard on 6v. I was thinking the starter might have to be rebuilt or the timing is a little behind or advanced causing it to drag a little. It starts so good on 12v though, could it be the timing? HELP!

[Bigdog]

The most likely source of your problems is cables and grounds. Many, if not most cubs have had at least the ground cables replaced over the years. They usually get replaced with lighter gauge 12 volt cables. Clean both ends of both cables. If you have cables with those replaceable bolt on ends they are especially poor conductors after a short period of time. If it still turns over slowly after cleaning and / or replacing the cables, check the starter switch and have the starter bench tested.

[Maritimer]

Thanks bigdog, I'll give that I try. Can I check the starter switch? Or do I get the shop to do that when he checks the starter, If it goes that far. I just got thinking, I had to rebuild the bat box(with fiberglass) in areas. This just could be the problem.

[Bigdog]

Try using some good jumper cables to parallel your battery cables. Making sure you get a good ground will solve most problems. If you do not feel comfortable disassembling the starter switch, the shop that checks the starter will be able to check the switch as well. I'm betting on the cables.

[Vern Campbell]

I think you'll find that Bigdog is right. The best thing I did to improve the starting on my '55 was to replace the cables using the setup Bigdog has posted on this forum. The flat ground strap was especially slick. After I was done, the little engine spins over on 6v just like it was a 12v.
Vern

[Rudi]

Mike:

I agree with Vern and Big Dog. The ground strap has proved to be an invaluable addition and Ellie starts usually on the first pull of the starter. Even with me being laid up all winter and her being stored outside and not getting any runnin since November, she started right up last week.

Ground and proper cable size will make a big difference. And if it starts on 12v but not on 6v I would bet dollars to doughnuts that the problem is either ground, cable size or a bit of both.

Let us know

[Maritimer]

Allright , so would it matter if the cable is a bit large than what is suposed to be on it? I have some 2/0 cable that I have for my H, can I put this on it? I'm quite sure that the cable that was on it was half of this size.

[Bigdog]

Bigger cables will not hurt anything at all.