• Thank you for visiting HeavyEquipmentForums.com! Our objective is to provide industry professionals a place to gather to exchange questions, answers and ideas. We welcome you to register using the "Register" icon at the top of the page. We'd appreciate any help you can offer in spreading the word of our new site. The more members that join, the bigger resource for all to enjoy. Thank you!

Hitachi EX300LC-2

Ray Lester

New Member
Joined
Aug 8, 2018
Messages
3
Location
Fairbanks, Alaska
Got a Hitachi EX300, Isuzu engine. Many times when I turn the key to “start” I get a click sound that comes from near the batteries. Other times the engine turns over and starts normally. I recently installed a new ignition switch. I’ve still gotten the click a few times. Talked with the service department of the local Hitachi dealer. He said the click sounds like the start relay is working but the start solenoid is not engaging all the time and allowing the starter to rotate. Does this sound right? How do you check the start solenoid?
 

bunkclimber

Well-Known Member
Joined
Jul 29, 2009
Messages
116
Location
MD
check batteries for proper voltage,..have an assistant sit in the op seat and turn the key switch, use a digital multimeter to check for DC voltage on the solenoid terminal.Check bolted battery connections for tightness,of course make sure connections are clean,that can lead to problems too. After that check solenoid DC resistance to ground or chassis to see if you have an open coil in your solenoid. Could also be as simple as a worn-out key switch..think of how many times that switch has turned!! If there are any connections/connectors inbetween there can be issues with contacts burned up,corrosion,etc..just a few things to look for.FWIW,best of luck
 

BigWrench55

Senior Member
Joined
Oct 11, 2018
Messages
1,176
Location
Somewhere
Hitachi has battery disconnect tied into the ignition. That’s the click you hear when you turn on the key. I believe it’s in the compartment with the batteries. I hope that will help you.
 

mg2361

Senior Member
Joined
Jul 5, 2016
Messages
5,057
Location
Pennsylvania
Occupation
Equipment Mechanic
If everything checks out from the above steps from Bunkclimber and Paul, then maybe look at the starter protection circuit. Deere/Hitachi machines have a starter protection relay that prevents the starter from turning if the engine is running.
 

bunkclimber

Well-Known Member
Joined
Jul 29, 2009
Messages
116
Location
MD
even with a new 'ignition' switch I'd still go thru the whole electrical signal path,Ive seen new switches bad right out of the box..stumped me good..just good practice not to assume anything..Standard, Cole Hersee and Pollak have good service products but anything should be suspect anymore with a global replacement parts market.
 

Jakex120

Well-Known Member
Joined
Aug 29, 2018
Messages
69
Location
Kentucky
Got a Hitachi EX300, Isuzu engine. Many times when I turn the key to “start” I get a click sound that comes from near the batteries. Other times the engine turns over and starts normally. I recently installed a new ignition switch. I’ve still gotten the click a few times. Talked with the service department of the local Hitachi dealer. He said the click sounds like the start relay is working but the start solenoid is not engaging all the time and allowing the starter to rotate. Does this sound right? How do you check the start solenoid?
When it has started in the past, did it crank very slow.?
 

joeblow

Well-Known Member
Joined
Jan 13, 2013
Messages
238
Location
Victoria B.C.
Occupation
Retired
Check the safety relay on the side of the starter.It is there to prevent you from engaging the starter when the engine is running.
 

Jakex120

Well-Known Member
Joined
Aug 29, 2018
Messages
69
Location
Kentucky
My Hitachi had similar problems a few months into ownership. Went through some of the same checks mentioned here but in the end turned out to be the starter just needing a rebuild..good luck to ya!
 

asleiman

Well-Known Member
Joined
Feb 2, 2016
Messages
169
Location
Alabama
I have EX 300 LC 3 C, had similar problem and actually melted the battery post.( this is posted here a while back)
I took off all the relays cable and connectors , cleaned real well with a grinder really shined the metal.
it started like charm. it is just corrision on the cable connections.
hope it help
 
Top