John Deere 50G Intermittent No-Crank, Clicking Sound
Fault Codes & Symptoms
Engine does not crank, single loud click from starter area Related symptoms: - Slow cranking - Starter making a grinding noise if the internal contacts are partially engaging Machine intermittently fails to start. When it fails, the operator turns the key and hears a single click, but the engine does not turn over. It may start normally after several key cycles.
Confirmed cause: Loose nut on the starter solenoid's internal stud connecting power to the motor windings. The nut was not visible externally but was loose, causing an intermittent open circuit when the solenoid contacts closed. Repair performed: Replaced the starter motor assembly. While the individual solenoid was the point of failure, it is typically replaced as a unit with the starter motor. Verification: Cycled the ignition key to start the engine more than 20 times, both cold and after running to operating temperature. The engine cranked normally every time with no hesitation or clicking. Technician notes: - This failure mode is common across many starter types. A loud click without a crank points to the solenoid engaging but the motor failing to receive high current. - A simple tap on the starter solenoid with a hammer can sometimes temporarily resolve this issue, which helps confirm the starter/solenoid assembly as the problem area.