Using my backhoe yesterday. Stopped for lunch. Went out again and turned key. Heard a "buzz" then a "pop". Dashboard went dead, gauges or lights not working. Tried one more time. Heard nothing, and dashboard and gauges still dead. WENT FISHING.This morning took volt meter and checked batteries, reads 12.5 volts, cables are good and tight nothing burned or smelling. Tried to start. Turned key, this time dashboard and gauged work. Now you only hear the "chatter" of starter solenoid. Starter does NOT turn. Pulled engine panel. Starter has no loose wired, no signs of burn etc. Also, for about last week of 10 days noticed alternator light coming on and ammeter reading in the red especially at high RPMs. Looked at batteries. Cells were down just a little, so topped off with water. Seemed to help. Alternator light doesn't come on anymore but gauge reading right on red line at high RPMs. NOW WHAT??? Bad starter solenoid??? All suggestions are welcome. In the meantime, GOING FISHING. Thanks, Tom
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