Troubleshooting the New Holland L185 Skid Steer Loader Starting Issue

[MikePhua]

Overview of the Starting Problem
The New Holland L185 skid steer loader is a reliable and widely used machine, but like any heavy equipment, it can experience starting failures. Commonly, the machine may fail to crank or start altogether, leaving operators stranded and causing costly downtime. Understanding the root causes and systematic troubleshooting steps is essential to quickly restore operation.
Common Causes of No-Start Conditions
Several issues can prevent the L185 from starting, including:

• Battery and Electrical Problems
  • Dead or weak battery unable to supply sufficient power
    
  • Corroded or loose battery terminals reducing current flow
    
  • Faulty starter motor or solenoid
    
  • Blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers in starter or ignition circuits
    
• Fuel Delivery Issues
  • Empty or contaminated fuel tank
    
  • Clogged fuel filters restricting flow
    
  • Faulty fuel pump failing to supply diesel to the engine
    
  • Air in the fuel lines causing interruptions
    
• Engine Control and Safety Systems
  • Malfunctioning safety interlocks preventing starter engagement
    
  • Faulty ignition switch or wiring harness faults
    
  • Sensors detecting abnormal conditions and inhibiting start (e.g., glow plugs, temperature sensors)
    
• Mechanical Failures
  • Seized engine components or internal damage
    
  • Engine timing problems affecting compression and ignition
    

Key Terminology

• Starter Motor: An electric motor that turns the engine over during starting.
  
• Solenoid: An electromagnetic switch activating the starter motor.
  
• Interlock System: Safety controls ensuring the machine only starts under safe conditions (e.g., neutral gear, operator presence).
  
• Glow Plugs: Heating elements that preheat the combustion chamber for cold starts in diesel engines.
  

Systematic Diagnostic Approach
To efficiently identify the cause, follow these steps:

• Battery Check
  • Measure battery voltage; a healthy battery typically reads around 12.6 volts or more.
    
  • Inspect battery terminals and cables for corrosion or looseness; clean and tighten as necessary.
    
  • Test battery under load if possible.
    
• Starter and Electrical Circuit Test
  • Listen for clicking sounds indicating solenoid engagement.
    
  • Check starter motor connections and operation.
    
  • Inspect fuses and relays associated with starting system.
    
• Fuel System Inspection
  • Verify fuel quantity and quality; drain and replace if contaminated.
    
  • Replace fuel filters as part of preventive maintenance.
    
  • Prime fuel system to remove air bubbles.
    
  • Test fuel pump operation and pressure.
    
• Safety and Control Systems
  • Ensure all safety switches (seat, neutral, parking brake) are engaged.
    
  • Scan for diagnostic trouble codes if equipped with onboard computer.
    
  • Examine wiring harnesses for damage or shorts.
    
• Mechanical Evaluation
  • Attempt to manually turn the engine if accessible to check for seizure.
    
  • Inspect compression if other checks fail.
    

Case Examples
In one documented incident, a New Holland L185 would not start due to a corroded battery cable terminal causing voltage drop. After cleaning and tightening the terminal, the starter operated normally.
Another case involved fuel contamination from water ingress, leading to clogging of the fuel filter and pump failure. Replacement of filters and fuel flushing restored engine starting.
A third example highlighted an operator safety switch malfunction, where the machine's interlock system blocked starting despite no visible fault. Bypassing and testing switches identified the defective sensor.
Maintenance and Prevention Tips

• Regularly check and maintain battery health and connections.
  
• Replace fuel filters according to manufacturer schedules.
  
• Keep fuel tanks clean and prevent water contamination.
  
• Test safety interlocks periodically to ensure reliable operation.
  
• Perform engine tune-ups and diagnostics to detect early issues.
  

Summary Checklist for New Holland L185 Starting Troubleshooting

• Test battery voltage and condition
  
• Inspect and clean battery terminals and cables
  
• Check starter motor and solenoid operation
  
• Verify fuel level and filter condition
  
• Prime fuel system to remove air
  
• Test safety interlock switches
  
• Scan for error codes (if applicable)
  
• Assess engine mechanical condition if needed
  

Conclusion
Starting failures in the New Holland L185 skid steer loader often stem from electrical, fuel, or safety system issues that can be diagnosed methodically. Regular preventive maintenance minimizes unexpected breakdowns. Prompt identification and repair of common faults like battery problems, fuel contamination, or safety switch malfunctions help ensure minimal downtime and keep operations running smoothly.