Got a Cub Cadet LT1050..... with what I assume to be a dead starter. Looking for confirmation or correction please.



Apparent short between the housing and the positive lead. For the record, solenoid on these is mounted remotely.

Took the starter apart, found a suspect lead - worn insulation (starts at the 3:00 position in the photo below). I was able to recreate a short between opposing leads/brushes by wiggling and squeezing.



Repaired the insulation, and confirmed no shorts between opposing leads/brushes. Put everything back together, still getting a dead short between the positive lead and the starter housing.

If I put 12VDC across the positive lead and housing on the bench, the starter spins freely. Bolt the starter back in the mower, hit it with 12VDC again, it spins - but slowly and with great protest.

Theories? Suggestions?

__________________
1961 220b: first project car - sold.
2000 CLK 430: first modern Benz - sold.
2001 CLK 55: OMG the torque!!! - sold
1972 280SE 4.5: Baby Gustav
1991 300TE 4Matic: Gretel the Snow Bunny - sold
1978 300SD: Katz the Free Man - given away
1980 Redhead: Darling Wife