Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Toro Sidewinder 3500 D

The 4300D is all done . New blades and blade bolts installed and ready to go for spring . I  brought the side winder in today . The air filter and water separator filter needed changing so the new ones were put on and ,marked for next hr. change  . I noticed the rear deck doesn't line up properly . Checking it for worn bushing or a bent pull frame pin .A few parts ordered and some new Atomic blades . My old ones are getting a little thin .

Notice the front of these decks . Compared with the 4300D it has way more protection to help prevent the deck from getting knocked in . I don't have a 4500D here to compare front decks . Hmm makes me wonder if it was an over site . These 2 machines ( at this course) run in similar areas and so far the sidewinder has had no deck issues involving the blade hitting the decks .

176 comments:

  1. I'm working part-time at my local golf course; with a background in aircraft maintenance I figured I would be able to help them to better maintain their equipment. I didn't know I was walking into a salvage yard! Anyway, the problem I am facing at the moment involves a Toro Sidewinder - the hydraulic motors won't turn fast enough to properly cut the grass. Can you make any suggestions to help me correct this problem?

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  2. If it doesn't transport fast to it may need a hydraulic oil and filter change. 46 oil is usually changed out every 400 hrs. If you need PDF manuals you can get them on line on Toro site. Just put in your model # etc. They don't like to cut wet long grass. Could be a bad O ring some where or by passing in one of the hydraulic motors. A hydraulic schematic should show you where to look. If you can't find one send me an email with year and model .

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    1. Toro 3500 d still wont go in fast transport proximity switch checked out fine

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  4. http://www.toro.com/en-ca/customer-support/Pages/educational-technical-references/Service%20Manuals/service-manuals.aspx

    Blades(s) turn too slowly. Gear pump (P1) is inefficient (see Testing).
    Cutting motor has internal leakage or malfunctioning cross--over
    relief valve (see Testing).
    Spindle bearing(s) are damaged.

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  5. I have a 2007 3500D Toro. The unit runs fine but when you are mowing, the blades turn off and we have to play with the switch to get them back on. Sometimes this works and most times it doesn't.
    I have replaced the switch twice. Any ideas.

    Thanks
    Bill

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  6. If it shuts machine off....park brake switch . If it's just the blades I'd check the transport mow switch and PTO switch. If their sitting around fertilizer in storage the switch connections may corrode. You can take the pto switch apart if it's like the one we had and clean up the contacts. Also check wiring to foot transport / mow switch..maybe a short/bare/or clean up connections.

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  7. Hello Bob, do know if Sidewinders have a rate of drop valve or some adjustment for the lowering of the decks.

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  8. I'm 99 % sure they don't have it .

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  9. At least not an adjustable one .

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  10. Ism having trouble tearing down a 3100d reel. How do you get the drive coupler off the reel so you can change the bearing in the housing

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  12. It might be a left hand thread if it's a reel . On our 5410s we had . They had left hand on one side . I'm guessing left side sitting in drivers seat

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  13. I have a 3500 D stalls in transport,mow does not matter but does not always do it replaced all filters all switches are working it will mow all day for 6 days straight then stall the next 4 days all the time

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  14. 3500 D stalls all the time then run fine for days then back to stalling replaced filters checked all switches can't find the problem

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    1. Check grounds on engine and battery terminal . Also connection to fuel shut off solinoid . Fuel pump could be on its way out to . They run till a short over heats pump and shuts down . Next time it cuts out see if you can hear the fuel solinoid click before trying to start . I'd check grounds first .

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    2. Check for dirty fuse connections to

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  15. Hey Bob i'm rebuilding spindles for the 3500d rotary decks. And i'm baffled by the way they say to install the seals. I don't understand how you can actually grease the bearings every 50 hours since the grease journals stop outside the seal. Would it cause the seal to blow out installing the top seal upside down? I could see installing the bottom seal lip facing down so it will allow the grease to come out but not let anything in. but I feel the top seal should be installed the same direction with the lip facing down to allow grease in pushing he seal out not against it. We are new to the machine any help will be greatly appreciated.

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    1. I've only installed according to instructions . No issues when we had them .

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    2. OK thank you, it just didn't seem right to me with the seal orientation and grease flow.

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  16. Hi Bob. The blades stopped spinning on my 3500 d. It was intermittent. Now they are dead. Switch is good as are the fuses

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    1. Did you check the switch that the sliding traction /mow lever under floor board . I've had that one stick before .

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  17. any ideas why the main fuse would blow on a toro 3500 when the key is turned to start

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    1. On our 5410 we had st the past course they would randomly blow that fuse ? After putting a relayed type 15 amp fuse the problem went away .

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  18. Starter drawing to much amps . If check the connections and battery cable wires for bumps ( corroded inside cable sheathing ) You can check the ignition switch and then cables if it's ok . If everything checks out ok it could be the starter shorted inside .

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  19. Hey Bob. The mowing decks on our 3500-D won't lift up. I'm no machanic and we don't have one. Any ideas on where to start looking? Really would like to get this mower running.

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    1. Haven't worked on one in years . Bad lift arm bushings . Lift lower lever or connection to it . Or a bad lift cylinder. If you can get the decks up by hand and remove lines on lift cylinders while supported .... use line plugs and see which on drops . The one that leaks down is the culprit . If not it could be something bigger . Any recent hydro oil changes . Right grade oil in system and proper level . Filters changed ? I know the hydro and filter changes are twice as often as a regular machines. I'd check the wire connection on lever and work your way back on electrical first ..

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  20. Hey Bob i got a 4500d that goes slow when mowing. It's fine in transport. I have replaced all filters and fluid. What's next

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    1. I would be checking the linkage next . There should be an adjustment for mow speed in operators manual . I've only had the 4300 models in the past . Oh if it's a tier 4 engine it may be an exhaust sensor or needs to do an exhaust burnout .

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    2. O rings for transport..located in front panel by seat

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  21. Got a 3500 d I just did fuel filter and water separator went to start and it blew fuel out the bottom any ideas why

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    1. Out the water separator? Not screwed in all the way maybe ? Not sure haven’t come across of an issue like that before . Bad filter maybe .... would be pretty rare . It was an OEM filter ?

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  22. I have a problem where my sidewinder will move, run, and cut but the lift/lower and side to side wont dont anything. I can see them flinch when i try. No fluid anywhere either.

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    1. send me your Email . I have some pictures to share of were this valve is on the older and newer type steering cylinders .check your linkage first to make sure it hasn't broken etc. bobprn@gmail.com

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  23. According to the service manual it could be a # of things . With out hydraulic test equipment its hard to pin point the problem .If the linkage is good and nothings flowing they says it might be bypassing because of a stuck relief valve in steering circuit . I'm not much help on this one . Manuals are available on Toro site . If your part of Golftechs you could post the question there . If your not it is a free site and lots of top notch techs for ideas .I'll do some more digging if I find something i'll post it here .

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  24. 3500d just bought this unit started going through it and found the blades won't turn on -- ok found no wires to seat switch so I added them still blades will not start. I tried switch and still did not start not sure-- first for this type of machine maybe I'm missing a starting sequence??

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    1. There is a switch controlled by a lever you kick over with your right toe to put it in mow mode . Maybe bad switch or connection . Easily accessed from underside right front corner .

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    2. Got a 4500d. Was running then shut off will turn over wont fire up. Seems like not getting fuel. Fuel pump?????

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  25. Fuel relay I’d check first . Then fuel shut off solinoid .If you haven’t changed fuel filter in a while it could be that or junk in tank from dirty gloves when fueling up . If top of tank has sagged a bit pick up tube good be bottom out . I’d also crack the tank fuel cap to see if vent might be plugged .

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  26. 2002 3500d toro runs fine and mows fine at 3/4 throttle, but when i put it to full throttle the machine begins to bog down while mowing and if i let off it will return to normal. Any help would be appreciated, thanks

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    1. sorry for delay . blogger doesn't send notices to email ? I would say weak fuel lines or one pinched somewhere or plugged fuel filter

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  27. Hey Bob, my toro 3500D keeps getting hot an shuts down like every 10-15 minutes, then I open engine cover let it cool bout 15 n it starts up again, an same thing over an over , have coolant, oil, fuel any ideas why it shuts down

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  28. Plugged radiator or thermostat stuck open . Coolant should be changed every 2 years with 50/50 mix .

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  29. Hey Bob, I’m working on a Toro Groundsmaster 3500D and the back deck won’t lift. It moves like its trying to. I removed the hydraulic cylinder and pushed the rod in and out freely. When I hooked it back up and started the machine the ram fully extended. Any suggestions?

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    1. Most likely by passing internally on cylinder . I think rebuild kits are available, but they are hard to take apart . Retaining clip rotates outbif I remember right . If you can cap both ends off when it’s up and it drops down all the way then that’s most like it

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  30. i have a 3500 D the mower will run fine for about 15 minutes and then it starts stalling out especially when i get on a incline. i have bleed all the fuel lines and checked for leaks. any suggestions on what the problem could be?

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    1. Plugged cap vent or debris in tank clogging intake tube . Would be were I’d check first

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  31. Hey Bob have a groundmaster 3500 D and when PTO off, blades keep spinning slower but enough to cut your fingers off....any suggestions?

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    1. I would say a bad O ring on the solinoid that opens that up

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  32. https://media.toro.com/servicemanuals/14209sl.pdf Check page 5-66 and 5-67 . Haven’t worked on one in 4 years . Worse case scenario could be the steering valve if it’s also steering funny .

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  33. Hey Bob, I have a 2014 Toro 3500D that the decks will not lower on. Unit transports ok, blades engage ok, decks shift left to right ok... but they will NOT lower. Any suggestions?

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    1. Should be a coil and valve that controls that . Bad connection on coil or O rings on that valve and possibly a dirty coil . I’ve removed them and just cleaned them . Not sure which one it is . If you have a download from toro it should tell you

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  34. Replies
    1. that was from an email . blogger is acting up .

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  35. hey bob. I have a 2004 3500d sidewinder that the wheel moters seem to be grinding . hydraulic fluid good . wheels will not both pull at the same time. any ideas?

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  36. I have a 2004 toro sidewinder that the wheels do not turn at the same time. grinding sound. hydraulic fluid good.

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    1. good sign on the fluid .I know they will collect a lot of grass in behind the wheels .one side more so than the other . Id look for a seized brake first or something jambed in there causing the grinding noise . I've seen rocks get jambed in weird areas before .

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  37. Hey Bob how do you fix the reverse on the 3500 D toro mower? Thx.

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    1. usually worn linkage may also just need adjustments

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  38. Bob,
    I've a Toro 3500D sidewinder. I leaned off the seat to pick up a stick and it stopped (as expected) Rolled forward a bit and now won't start. Is there a timer or reset to get it going again.

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  39. not that I know of . pedal has to be in neutral position and PTO off . if that's not it maybe a faulty seat switch or your sitting to far forward to engage seat switch .

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  40. Hey Bob, My Toro 4500D Blade deck won't raise up. I've change the valve solenoids. Any idea what's the problem?

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  41. haven't worked on one before , but check to make sure there is voltage to coil wire and that coil is also good , could also be a bad lift cylinder in circuit first one in circuit . lift cylinder up then support , remove lines and plug with proper plugs and see if it drops .

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    1. also check if there is a proximity switch and or relay in circuit

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    2. Yup I did check the voltage on the coil wire. We think same but I don't have proper plugs. I don't know if this will work? "I'm thinking about lift all the cylinder up and see from there if one of the cylinder goes down that means it has a bad seal..."

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    3. also temporarily bypass seat switch and see if it works , /I have mostly JD and if your not sitting on some of those the reels wont raise

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  42. could also be the raise lower lever . I've heard of that before too .
    .

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  43. very rare but if a hose collapses internally it will also do it . only heard of it happening once in 20 years . Bypassing seat will rule out seat switch if its still doing the same thing . I take it no recent hydraulic oil changes . If its never been done possibly plugged screen or filter . That's all I have . good luck . post back if you do find please .

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  44. hi bob.. I have a Toro 3500D. One of the mower decks out of the 3 will not move, 2 front decks run great and the middle one is seized will not turn by hand when machine is turned off, the other 2 move freely by hand, would that motor have a hydralic lock? What else would you suggest

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  45. Sorry when I say will not turn, By that I mean the blade on the middle rear, 2 in front of the tires the blades move freely by hand

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  46. I would remove hydraulic motor and see if blade can turn by hand . If not it may have a broken bearing in blade hub . If it does move then run motor with it not mounted a see it it’s turning . I’m thinking if it’s hydraulic locked the blade should move by hand till it builds pressure . You could trade a hydraulic motor and see if problem follows .

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  47. Thanks Bill . Does that blade hub come out from the top or the bottom? When you pull that hydaulic motor off there is a big nut in there ? Which way is easier top or bottom to pull it out or is there only 1 way to pull it ?

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  48. PS... with the hydaulic motor removed the blade will not tirn

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  49. Top just 2 bolts .
    https://golfcoursemechanics.blogspot.com/2012/05/toro-sidewinder-spindle-rebuild.html?m=1 Blade hub are all the bolts on top of deck . That part drops out the bottom . Motor just lift off the top . Pretty easy

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  50. Top 2 to lift deck motor off from top side . Bob not Bill lol it’s called Bobs Shop

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  51. Sorry Bob, guess I have been couped up inside to long with this stuff going on Stay safe..

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  52. One last question Bob, Where would you get bearing parts in these times? I am in the Toronto area.

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    1. We get ours from Veseys in PEI. There Is a big Toro dealer in Ontario I’m not sure of the name but you can probably find them online and make arrangements for part pick up . JD I have to call before pick up and they leave it outside their door when I get there . Everyone is doing their thing . Best to call first

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    2. Ours would be delivered from PEI by fedex or other

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  53. Mystified Bob... Removed the blade hub, never took it apart and I did get the spindle to move very freely, no slopiness in the bearings at all and now with new grease and some time to free it up so it will turn easily it works. Would you still change the bearings or put it back on and run it? Would it have seized over the winter from sitting?

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    1. If there is little play it should be ok . Does the hydraulic motor side work ok too ? Anything is possible, depends on maintenance done in the past .

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    2. Oh after it’s back on deck make sure blades not hitting anything . I haven’t seen this style deck bend in but the 4300 model decks on 5 Plex units can get bashed in stopping the blade.

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  54. Bob very mystified.. I removed the bladed hub but never tore it down, took some time and i freed it up, no play in the bearings and now with fresh grease it spins nicely and no bad sounds in the bearings. Would it have siezed up over the winter from sitting with moisture or some thing like that in it? Thanks

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  55. Yes it works. Curios why that blade would sieze up like that?

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  56. Great . Who knows why it seized up but glade it worked out for ya . You can pound the grease to them till you see a little come out the bottom side by the plate . Should be good now that it’s freed up.

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  57. Back at it today Bob. All blades are turning well when the system turns on, Some times when you engage the switch to turn the blades on they start immediately and other times I have to wait up to 5 minutes after the blade engage switch is turned on for them to start. Any ideas?

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  58. Try cleaning foot slide switch connection ( Under floor pan front right ( sitting on machine )) I think it might be adjustable. Been a while . Also clean connection on PTO switch . If that’s not it you should be able to download tech manual on toro site and look to relays electric or valves hydraulics . I’ve seen corroded coils on valves corroded causing similar issues . I go from easiest fix to hardest . Been at least 5 + years since I’ve seen this machine . But trouble shooting is the same on most gear .

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  59. Coils I just remove ( stuck one sometimes ) carefully and clean with contact cleaner . You could use a fine emery cloth or nylon scrubby pad to on metal post section.

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  60. according to pics left side frame area.sent you an email . if you don't get it let me know . I can send you a PDF file of a 2008 ish unit or you can get ne the model # and I cab see if I can find yours on toro site

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  61. Hi Bob I did not get that email you sent me

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  62. Hi Bob
    New to your blog. 3500d overheating. Checked thermostat OK. Blew rad out with air gun. Any other things I could for. I sure don't want to seize the engine.Thx

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    1. Cover rad with cardboard. Leave rad cap off and see if the rad fluid is actually circulating once it’s warmed up really good . Blockage in rad, bad water pump , thermostat bad , old anti freeze , bad rad cap , water pumps usually haves little weep hole if it’s wet or anti freeze is leaking it’s probably gone. Not much else to the system . When it circulates both hoses should be same temperature

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  63. When you say checked thermostat did you remove it a tested it in heated water with a thermometer to see if it opens at pre set ( 190f usually) ? If both hoses are hot all the time or fluid circulates when cold then it’s stuck open which would leed to over heating . Some people think leaving out keeps it cool but it doesn’t work that way . It has to open a close to give rad time to cool it off . Plugged rad fins and anti freeze should be 50/50 mixed with water . Pure anti freeze might gel up causing over heating too . Good luck let me know if info helped out

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    1. Thx for your replies.
      I did pull the thermostat and tested it in boiling water. It appeared to open at the right temp and then closed again while cooling. 50/50 coolant was changed last fall.
      Overheating signal doesn't activate for 30+ minutes when I am using the machine. Both hoses are equally hot. Does this mean the rad is not the issue. I think the machine is a 2007 and to my knowledge the rad has never been serviced. I did a pressure test on it last fall and it seemed to test OK.
      My fear is it might be a head gasket but I don't see any evidence of water in the oil pan.
      I am going to do the cardboard test you mentioned.
      I don't know what else to try. If you have any other suggestions they would be appreciated.
      Thx again

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    2. Not sure but some Toros had temperature sensors that would shut machine off and see if coolant is actually circulating with cap off . If it does not then I’d put a water pump in it .

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  64. Hey Bob,
    We have a TORO 5410 REELMASTER that we will cut a perfect pass and turn aroumd and about 10 feet into new cut blades disengage. Any idea what to look for? Could it be dirty fluid?

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    1. Does it do it all the time or just occasionally . There should only be slight reel contact to . Reel cylinder to bottom blade . You can download manual and check what’s in hydraulic system for that loop . Like a coil controlled valves . Bad o ring in a valve etc.

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    2. How does steering feel . Try engaging reel while it’s not moving and turn steering back and forth . If it shuts off it could also be a steering valve . Hard to say what it could actually be . Good luck.

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    3. Also if it does it when machine is up to temperature it could be temperature switch .its all inter connected

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  65. I would check the engage lever . Haven’t been around one of these in years . Might be micro switches on lever . Also check park brake switch . Ground on engine block too . Dirty fluid ? If it hasn’t been changed in a long time 800 hrs or 2 years then I’d also change it and the filters . Looks like electrical to me . You can get free PDF files for these on Toro site . Pretty detailed.

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  66. Toro 3500 D

    The unit is continually blowing the 10 amp fuse for starting the unit and once it does start the unit immediately stalls out, any advice Bob?

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  67. Key switch . Key switch start wire on starter . Usually the single clip on type . Short in that wire . Bad starter ? Hmm starts but no run I’d check key switch first then seat switch .

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  68. When you say check the key switch, is there a way to actually test it??

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  69. Yep ohm gauge . You can download a service manual on Toro site

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  70. Still have the mower problem. The mower will turn on sometimes immediately and other times you have to turn the switch on for 1-2 minutes and sit and wait for it to engage, you can hear and see the hydraulic hoses pulsate to try to turn on?

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    1. Runs ok but blades don’t engage ? Seat switch can be tested but sometimes test good but are not . Might still be a sticking valve or bad O ring to . If you download manual from Toro site for your model # it should show you where and how to test it .

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  71. So I guess shorting out that seat switch would be a quick way to tell me if its bad??

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  72. Hello Bob I have a toro 3500d and when I try to lift the decks all three lift a little and the stop and the side to side move slowly i rebuild the pump because i though it wasn't getting enough fluid what can I check to see what the problem

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  73. hello Bob I have a toro 3500d and when I try to lift the decks all three lift a little then stop ansmd the side to side moves slowly I rebuild the pump but still no change what else can I check

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    1. If your area is freezing out still make sure you have the right hydraulic fluid in machine . I’ve heard the wrong type might have that effect . Filters changed too ? Hydro fluid change out was 400 hours if I remember right. Was it like this before rebuilding pump ?

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  74. Looking for a used deck mower for Toro 3500D. Any idea where I might locate one in the Southwest Ontario region. Doesn't have an anti cavitation valve so I think it must be a Haldex model

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    1. Try a local dealer you never know they may have one out back for parts

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  75. Morning Bob, I have a toro 4500D and the front left deck can't keep up with cutting. Replaced the motor twice, and with a brand new motor 2 days in and it still doesnt work. Changed all fluids and filters

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  76. Weird I think there all hooked in series . Cutting heavy long grass ? Try changing the deck motor before this one in series .

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  77. Hey Bob I have a Toro 3500D just purchased. Runs great, but bogs down easily in any kind of grass. Blades also seem to turn a bit slow even under no load. Greased all spindles and they turn freely. Thanks

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  78. Turbo stuck or not running ? Fuel filter dirty ? They will big a bit in heavy wet grass

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    1. Checked both of those, no issues. I worked on it quite a bit this evening and determined that it is not an engine power issue, but rather a hydraulic issue. The traction unit seems to have plenty of power, climbs hills etc without issue, but the blades take a long time to spin up and can barely cut any grass. I checked that the solenoid for the blade engage is turning all the way on and it seems to be. This leaves only the hydraulic pump being bad if I'm not missing anything?

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    2. Could be a broken or missing O ring on spool valve or even partially stuck . If it’s a half decent machine it might be worth getting some hydraulic test done

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    3. I thought this was a good idea, so this morning I swapped the entire control/spool valve assembly from another machine we have that works fine. Same issues after swapping. I was also noticing that the steering on this new machine seems quite stiff compared to the other machine and the deck movement is a bit slow. All this seems to indicate bad hyd. pressure/volume. Unfortunately I don't have access to a hyd. test kit. Anything else you can think of before I order a new hyd. pump for $800?

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    4. Also I considered swapping the hyd. pump itself from the other machine but it is a 3100D and I believe the 3500D uses a beefier pump. It certainly looks different anyway.

      Thanks again

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    5. If steering doesn’t feel right... that might be the issue. A lot of stuff runs through the steering valve . At least it goes on the 5410 I had in the past . If you could swap those to verify . Mark # or symbols on hoses before taking off . They have to go in the right spot

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    6. Just wanted let others know I did get this issue resolved. After some limited hydraulic testing and reading the testing section of the manual about 20 times, I decided that the RSV solenoid valve (the valve responsible for turning on/off the blades) could be a probable cause. The seals on the valve appeared fine, but I decided to take a gamble and replace it anyway. Replaced it for $450 and am happy to report this was the issue! Mower cuts awesome now! Hope this helps someone else!

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  79. hello Bob i hav a 3500d that wont move . has a new drive pump in it and ran for about 3 weeks before it wouldn,t move

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  80. have a 3500d that will not move .has a new drive pump that worked for about 3 weeks ..whats up . decks work up down fine

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  81. Might be a bad wheel motor . Check linkage to . I’ve had roll pins snap of on different machines that would do that . Not sure if this one set up that way . I’d push on pedals and see if the shaft is actually moving

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  82. I have a Toro 3500D and at times usually when it gets warm out will shut down when you push the pedal and actuate the neutral switch. The manual I have in the harness diagram it does not show the neutral switch relay. So not sure how it is wired in. Not sure where to find the right one. Any help would be greatly greatly. Mark

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  83. might be the proximity switch needing adjustment . its under the floor board beside pedal . schematic (2010) show a relay but doesn't say where it is but it is off the proximity wire and it might be pink . trace it back maybe . I forget where the relays are all at but if they are the same trade them around and see if problem follows . I use the glow plug relay after engines warmed up .

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  84. HEY BOB, 3500D WILL RUN ALDAY JUST SITTING STILL WHEN TRANSPORTING OR MOWING WILL STALL. WILL START RIGHT BACK UP. HAVE CHECKED SWITCHES AND GROUNDS. HELP

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  85. Seat switch or park brake . Maybe the proximity sensor on forward reverse pedal

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  86. Try unhooking seat sensor to see might have to jump the wires together.

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  87. Hello bob I Just bought a realmaster 3500d if I turn it on and set reals on the ground to mow the left side and center mow but the right wing won’t spin unless I lift up the left side wing am I doing something wrong?

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  88. Reels and not decks ? I’m guessing there is a proximity switch out if adjustment if it has them . Not familier with the reel unit ones . But that would be what I’d be looking for first . Should be on the lift arm hinge point somewhere .

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  89. Hello Bob, I have the opportunity to buy a 3500D Sidewinder that has been sitting for the past 6 years. It went into the shop because of a decrease in power when going forward and reverse. The blades engage and the decks move as expected.
    While in the shop, based on an included receipt, the following work was done:
    1. 108-9036 "Hyd Gear Pump Asm"
    2. 104-4890 "Piston Pump Asm"
    3. 104-2541 "Switch ASM"
    4. 104-4226 "Seal Kit"
    5. 237-42 "O-Ring"

    After being in the shop, the machine still didn't run right according to the current owner. The shop was unhelpful in correcting the issue, stating they mowed just fine with it while it was there. It has sat since. When putting the machine in the shed, he said it would move, but couldn't get over the "hump" on the entrance to the garage. Any resistance and the machine would not go any further in forward or review.
    Thoughts on where to even start tacking this project?

    Thanks,
    Justin

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  90. Check the linkage . Then find out if hydraulic oil and filter where changed last . Check that hoses are in right location on pump and wheel motors . You can get info on your model on toro site to to help trouble shoot.

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Sir, I appreciate your time and expertise.

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  91. ed.
    Traction response is sluggish.
    Hydrostat by- pass valve is open or worn.
    Brake is not released.
    Charge pressure is low. Hydraulic oil is very cold. Traction pump or wheel motor(s) are worn or damaged.
    No traction exists in either direction.
    Brake is not released.
    Oil level in reservoir is low.
    Hydrostat by- pass valve is open.
    Traction pump drive belt loose or broken.
    Charge pressure is low.
    That’s from a PDF site on line . Check valves could be bad too .

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  92. Hey bob, I have a 3100D sidewinder that runs fine on any flat surface but back wheel spins and leaves marks on any incline, I changed the brake shoes on both front wheels and seal kit on front right motor, both front wheels are turning freely and the back aswell, has to be a hydraulic issue, any ideas?

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    Replies
    1. Was it fine before seal kit ? Those are hard lines I think so probably not mixed up lines . Same size tires ? Was front wheel motor pulled all apart ? I know on an old jac we had once if it’s not put back together right it won’t function properly. Vanes inside wheel motor have to be assembled a certain way ( Jacobsen that is ) not sure if toros the same but I would think so. Good luck .

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  93. We bought a Toro 3500D rotary mower. We used it during baseball season and it would abruptly die while mowing. It would turn off like the switch turned off, not like it would bog down and die. It would then crank back up and go again until it died again. Now it will not turn over at all.

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  94. I’d look at the starter relay first .. sounds like the culprit .

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    Replies
    1. That was from me Bobs Shop .

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  95. do you know who manufactures the hydrualic piston pump for the Toro 3500D ? looking for parts

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  96. I have a toro groundsmaster 3500 D I start it and the engine bogs down or shuts off I've changed all filters and even the fuel pump as well as blow out and cleaned wire connectors does anyone have any other suggestions to try as I can figure this one out

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    Replies
    1. Plugged line in tank . Bad fuel shut off solinoid or ground on it

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    2. So would that also be the case if you are pressing the forward or reverse petals

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  97. That’s if all the air was bleed out after first attempt on repair . Is there fuel pumping out of fuel line when removed ?

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    Replies
    1. I just checked it and that's fine but I noticed that when I press the forward or reverse petal it shuts down as well

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    2. Seat switch maybe . Also there was an adjustment under that floor board if I remember right . Proximity switch maybe it’s been a while. Right where that slide foot control is to engauge ( pto?) for blade to run .

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  98. Also try cracking each injector line one at a time. Could be air locked . ( Bobs Shop)

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  99. Hi Bob,
    I have a 3500d that just started to bog and slow after being warmed up, after about 1/2 hr of mowing. It happens especially on a incline. I can stop and turn off the pto switch and the engine will pick back up with a puff of smoke and be fine for a few minutes of mowing and it will start all over again.
    Decks and wheel motors are just warm or cool to touch.

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  100. right hydraulic grade oil ,hydro filter , fuel pump getting weak or relay for it . tank vent plugged or fuel pick up tube in tank or water?debris in tank . Happening on incline and smoking (black) might also be seized governor behind turbo. Which i've seen on a 4800 once. That's all I can think of for now.

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  101. Thanks! I’ll let you know how I make out.

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  102. Hi Bob!
    You are the KING! New hydraulic filter and problem solved. Thanks.

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  103. Hi Bob! Problem solved. It was the Hydraulic filter. Thanks

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  104. I have a 3500 and starts runs great but when I shut it off is stays running. Anyone have this problem before?

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  105. Key switch or wire connection to fuel shut off solenoid I’d be checking first . Also does the fuel shut off solenoid click when key is turned on ?

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    Replies
    1. That’s from Bobs Shop . Captcha site must be acting up ?

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  106. I have a Toro 3500d at a golf course I work at. It has fuel coming out of the intake . I know very little about a diesel. Any ideas

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  107. Bobs Shop….Not sure . Haven’t seen that before . Lines all tight ? Leaking out the intake all the time ? Or just when it’s off . ( fuel shut of solenoid not shutting off ?)Need more info. Intake ( injector manifold ? If there is a bleeder screw it may have vibrated loose ?

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  108. Our 2017 3500D made a sharp ping noise while cutting and we lost all propulsion. Playing with the foot pedals and restarting a couple times and we regained reverse. The right front drive motor was leaking fluid so was replaced. Again no forward only reverse.

    Several days later when we went to check the mower everything worked when we started it. Everything worked fine for 17 holes but on the 18th cutting up the grade to the green there was a ping again and I lost propulsion and began free wheeling backwards down the hill. I tapped both pedals but there was no drive. I pulled the emergency brake on but didn’t get stopped prior to backing into the river stopping short of submerging the engine. When we pulled it out we could drive it back to the shop. Any ideas as to the cause? Keyway on hydraulic pump??

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  109. hydraulic fuild changed and filters ? remove filters and cut open and see if there is anything in them .metal chunks . weird that bir works and doesn't work. been a while since I've worked on one bbut if you have a hydraulic skematic see if there are and solinoids or valves in that system and replace or clean and flush those lines. If there is debries in the system I think you can get an inline filter to trap anything moving around . But I've never done it just heard about it .

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  110. Traction Circuit (Closed Loop) Component Failure
    The Groundsmaster 3500--D traction circuit is a closed
    loop system that includes the hydrostat and two (2)
    wheel motors. If a component in the traction circuit
    should fail, debris and contamination from the failed
    component will circulate throughout the traction circuit.
    This contamination can damage other components in
    the circuit so it must be removed to prevent additional
    component failure.
    If a component failure occurs in the traction circuit, it is
    critical that the entire traction circuit be disassembled,
    drained and thoroughly cleaned to ensure that all contamination is removed from the circuit. If any debris remains in the traction circuit and the machine is operated,
    the debris can cause additional component failure.
    An additional step for removing all traction circuit contamination would be to temporarily install a high pressure hydraulic oil filter (see Special Tools) into the circuit.
    The filter could be used when connecting hydraulic test
    gauges in order to test traction circuit components or after replacing a failed traction circuit component (e.g. hydrostat or wheel motor). The filter will ensure that
    contaminates are removed from the closed loop and
    thus, do not cause additional component damage.
    Once the filter has been placed in the traction circuit,
    place the machine on jack stands and operate the traction circuit to allow oil flow through the circuit. With the
    machine raised off the ground, the traction circuit will
    have maximum oil flow at minimum pressure to minimize damage from any remaining contamination. The
    filter will remove contamination from the closed loop
    traction circuit during operation. Remove the filter from
    the machine after contamination has been removed
    from the traction circuit.
    IMPORTANT: When operating the traction system with
    the high pressure filter installed, make sure that flow is
    always directed through the filter (e.g. do not press the
    traction pedal in the reverse direction if the filter is placed
    for forward direction flow). If flow is reversed, debris
    from the filter will re--enter the traction circuit

    As dumb as is it sounds check the fluid level to

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    Replies
    1. Good morning and happy thanksgiving! bob, Im currently baffled trying to diagnose the drive motor issue i have.

      Rear drive motor works as should, both front drive motors free spin with absolutely zero response to the hydraulics. it being a closed loop system should i be able to rotate the front drive motors by hand with little to no resistance? please help if you can! thank you.

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    2. opps sorry about the delay. lol took a while to find the comments. It was a reply? Like most of us we don't have the fancy test equipment because of cost and amount of time being used. So if hydraulic fluid (right type it does make a difference in these machines for some reason depending if your in an area that can get cold) and filter have been serviced regularly ,I would be looking at the bypass valve (the one you turn to tow if needed) to see if it was messed with or faulty. Next check the manifold port M1 valve . If you have a good budget just get a new one and try it. If not pull it out and see if its damaged. seized up or bad O rings if it has them. I think pressure is regulated after the rear wheel motor according to what I'm reading so that would make sense. Goes rear motor then valve regulates pressure to I think right front then left. Hope this helps. Post back if it was the fix. Thanks. worst case would be a failed motor and debries in the system locking everything up. Start with simply checks to complicated if all else fails call in a pro $$$ to get it diagnosed so your not throwing to much $$ at it.

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  111. Have 2022 sidewinder runs fine till you engage the PTO switch and then it blows the 10am fuse and shuts off and no power after that any ideas? I hate electrical

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    Replies
    1. Haven't worked on one in years . I'd be looking for a chaffed wire in PTO circuit . Blows a fuse there's a short somewhere in that circuit. Maybe the switch . If there is a relay or coil (should be ) i'd check those too . Shouldn't be any safety switches otherwise it wouldn't blow the fuse it would just shut down to restart. So the power and pto are on same circuit ? Machine is dead no start after fuse blows. If so double check manual and see if thts the right fuse . 10 amp seems weak if there together. Good luck . Post with the fix if you figure it out .

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  112. I have a toro 3500d. Was running then all of a sudden it stalled, started back up and stalled again after few seconds now won't do anything when you turn key. Replaced switch Che ked wires and battery. Get 12.75 volts at starter. Any ideas why it won't start

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  113. Do you hear the fuel shut off solenoid click when key is turned to run? if not bad solenoid or connection. If it is totally dead nothing happens could be fusible link, starter fuse or relay. Also check wiring harness connections for corrosion. Also check the many comments above, have you tried jumping the battery too? Battery voltage might say 12.7 but the cranking amps might not be there due to bad ground or a bad cell in battery. If it's an old machine I'd check everything I just mentioned

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  114. I have a toro 3500d sidewinder. Shutoff all of a sudden. Nothing happens when turn key no lights on control panel just have headlights. Replaced key switch battery is good just Nothing happens when you turn key

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