What Is Wrong if My 1992 1440 Cub Cadet Won't Keep a Charge?

Regulator-Rectifier

• The Vanguard engine on your Cub Cadet 1440 has a regulator-rectifier that is responsible for sending voltage to the battery. Regulator-rectifiers ensure that the voltage is the correct amount so that the battery doesn’t become overcharged or undercharged. Have the regulator-rectifier tested for resistance by using an ohm meter if you have the technical skills. Otherwise, have an electrician test it. If the regulator-rectifier fails, an incorrect charge will be sent to the battery.

Battery Leads

• There are battery leads that run between the battery and engine. The positive lead, indicated by a red wire and a “plus” symbol, is the main lead that transfers voltage from the engine to the battery. The negative lead, or ground, is a black wire with a “negative” symbol. This keeps the voltage from arcing outside the battery. If either of these leads is damaged or compromised, the battery’s charge may be shortened or the battery won’t receive a charge at all.

Battery Life

• Your Cub Cadet battery’s life capacity may be ending. Batteries have a lifespan determined by years or a number of cranks before they begin to lose the capacity to keep a charge. Consult your battery’s warranty to see if it’s time to replace it. If your battery is within warranty, take it to an electrician or automotive parts store and have it tested for charge capacity. If the charge capacity is good, it’s possible that something electrical was left on for a lengthy period of time without the engine running, such as the 1440’s headlights or dashboard lights.

Spark Plug

• If the battery is turning on and attempting to crank on your 1440 but there is no start, there could be a problem with the spark plug. The spark plug provides the electrical charge for the Vanguard’s combustion. A spark plug with a shortened gap, however, will not have enough space for the charge to ignite fuel vapors. The operator’s manual suggests a gap of no more than .030 inches. A fouled plug, which will have a corroded tip, won’t transmit a charge at all. Ensure the spark plug is installed properly and is regularly changed and examined according to the maintenance schedule.