current to a direct current is called a RECTIFIER. A diode is one type of rectifier.

To check a diode, isolate if from the circuit by disconnecting one end. With a multitester set on the lowest ohms scale setting, measure the resistance in one direction, reverse the test leads, and measure in the other direction. Readings should be high in one direction and low in the other. (If the readings are low in both directions, the diode is shorted, and if the readings are high, the diode is open.) If the readings are the same in both directions, the diode is defective and must be replaced.

IMPORTANT: Diodes are marked to indicate polarity (a band on one end, an arrow on the side, or they fit on a holder only one way.

Rectifiers

A battery is charged through the use of an alternator located in or on the engine. A charging circuit contains a rectifier because alternators produce alternating current (AC) and batteries require direct current (DC) for charging.

The rectifier may be built into the engine or it may be an external part. It may also contain a regulator to prevent overcharging the battery. (Servicing of rectifiers built into the engine should be done by an approved engine manufacturer’s service center. Such a service center has access to the information and parts required to test and repair or replace engine components, including rectifiers and regulators.)

Units that contain both a rectifier and regulator are tested in a working circuit to make sure the regulator portion of the device is operating.

11.9 ELECTRIC CLUTCH

The electric clutch is used to turn on and off the attachment used on the unit by use of a switch. The clutch is also designed so that a brake is applied to the output shaft when the clutch is disengaged (off).

The field coil is mounted to a bearing support and does not rotate. The rotor is attached to the power output shaft and rotates around the field assembly. The armature is attached to the output pulley. The armature assembly is held close to the rotor by the brake assembly. The clutch is engaged by applying current to the coil connection. This results in a current flowing through the coil, magnetizing the coil pulling the armature onto the rotor with sufficient force to hold the two pieces together, effectively connecting the output and the input shafts together. Pulling the armature against the rotor pulls it away from the brake, releasing the brake.

Engine Electrical Components

Engine servicing and repair should be referred to local engine manufactures service centers that have the service information and parts available to properly

service the engine. Ariens dealers should be able to test engines and engine components to pinpoint troubles and narrow them down to properly advise the engine serviceman.

IMPORTANT: Check the serial number on the unit. The serial number will indicate which of the following sections apply.

11.10ELECTRICAL FOR SERIAL NUMBERS ABOVE 10,000

Safety Interlock System

WARNING: Safety Interlock failure and improper operation of unit can result in death or serious injury. Check system before each use to make sure it is functioning properly.

Perform the following tests to ensure the safety interlock system is working properly.

Test

Steering Lever

PTO

Engine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

Neutral Position

Off

Starts

 

 

 

 

2

Neutral Position

On

Doesn’t Start

 

 

 

 

4*+

Out of Neutral Position

Off

Shuts Off

 

 

 

 

5*+

Neutral Position

On

Shuts Off

 

 

 

 

* Test with engine running. + Operator lifts off seat.

Initial check out: Make sure that all switches are in their

proper position for starting: (A) PTO off. (B) transaxle in neutral position. (C) operator on the seat. If there is no battery voltage to start the engine, use the following steps to determine the problem.

STEP 1

Check out the battery. Use a voltmeter to check for proper voltage. Replace the battery if necessary and/or charge to proper level. Refer to Battery.

STEP 2

Use a voltmeter to make sure you have battery voltage to terminal B on the back side of the ignition switch in the off position. If you don’t have battery voltage to terminal B check the battery connection and the fuse in the red lead.

STEP 3

With the ignition switch in the "run" position, check to see if the battery voltage is being transferred from terminal B to terminal L. Terminal L on the ignition switch supplies battery voltage to the back of the PTO switch on the purple lead and on to the neutral switch on the red/green lead. Then to terminal 86 on the start relay.

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