How to Replace the Starter in a John Deere 318

The John Deere 318 offers users the ability to utilize an electric ignition to start the mower's engine. The starter is the same type of starter used in most automobiles. It engages the engine when you turn the key and the small starter motor brings the larger engine to life. When the starter motor fails to engage the John Deere's engine, you have to replace the starter with a new or rebuilt unit.

Wrench set

Instructions

- 1
  Lift the hood on your John Deere 318 and disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery with a wrench. Place the battery cable where it cannot touch metal. Remove the positive battery cable from the battery and place the cable where it cannot come in contact with the battery terminal.
- 2
  Locate the starter. The starter is approximately 10 inches in length and approximately 4 inches in diameter. Use the replacement starter as a visual reference. You will locate the starter toward the bottom rear of the engine.
- 3
  Disconnect the wiring harness from the starter by unplugging it with your fingers.
- 4
  Locate the nut that secures the starter wire to the starter and then remove it with a wrench.
- 5
  Remove the bolts that secure the starter to the engine block with a wrench and then pull the starter off the motor.
- 6
  Remove the smaller metal shell from the side of the starter and transfer it to the new starter. This is the starter solenoid. You will locate a single bolt. Remove the bolt and then you can remove the solenoid.
- 7
  Place the starter against the engine block of your john Deere 318 and secure it with the original bolts and your wrench.
- 8
  Reconnect the starter wire to the back of the new starter with the nut and wrench.
- 9
  Plug the wiring harness in. You will hear it lock in place with an audible snap.
- 10
  Reconnect the positive and then negative battery cables to the battery.

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