Solenoid Troubleshooting Guide Manual 36541
16 Woodward
Solenoid Operation on the Engine or Application
The procedure outlined below refers to shutdown applications that are the most
common solenoid applications. For other type of applications, use the installed
switching mechanism (relay, switch, etc.) to energize and de-energize the solenoid.
Use Table 2 below to observe solenoid operation on the engine and follow the
suggested course of action.
Table 2. Solenoid Operation of the Engine
Step
Condition Corrective Action
If the solenoid does not pull in (engine
will crank but not start), go to the “NO
START” Table 3.
If the solenoid pulls in but will not hold
in (engine stops with the key in run
position), go to the “NO RUN” Table 4.
If the solenoid pulls in but does not
return to the shutdown position when
switched off (engine will not shut-off),
go to the “NO SHUTDOWN” Table 5.
1
With one person at the key
switch and one person watching
the solenoid, inspect the
shutdown system during several
cycles of the ignition switch.
Check for complete shutoff
lever travel, from stop to run
position.
If the solenoid pulls in and operates
normally but the engine will not start,
the problem is probably application
related.
a) Check fuel, pump and injectors
b) Check air cleaner and filter
c) Check switches and system
grounds
d) Check relays (at least 60 A)
e) Refer to the OEM manual
NOTE
Remember to limit cranking to three 30-second attempts with a cool-
down period of two minutes (120 seconds) between each cranking
attempt. After three cranking attempts, the solenoid must be allowed
to cool down to ambient temperature (5½ minutes total elapsed
time) before any further attempts are made.