damage from reversed battery cables

[jwelch973]

I have a newer Briggs and Stratton 23hp engine that the cables on the battery end were reversed. The cables were reversed for a minute or so, but the engine was never run with the cables reversed. The engine runs fine when I pull start it, but the starter and alternator are not working. I assume the starter doesn't work because I either damaged the solenoid or the starter and is it possible I damaged the alternator even though the engine was never started with the wires reversed?

[racerone3]

you fried the voltage regulator at a minimum. that would explain the not charging. Might have gotten the alternator too, but the regulator does a pretty good job of protecting it... usually.

check fuses for the no start. probably popped one. to check the solenoid, run a jumper from the small post on the solenoid to battery + (note, there will be sparks) if it cranks, you solenoid is fine.

try those first and report back with your findings

[thebuggyman1]

I think R13 has you headed in the right direction. It is highly unlikely that you fried the starter. DC motors run in reverse when hooked up in reverse, they just don't run as efficient.
The solenoid is just an electromagnet, and it should not have been damaged by the reverse polarity either......so look for the fuse.
The bad news is that the regulator is kinda pricey

[jwelch973]

Thanks for the info. I won't be able to work on the engine for a few weeks but I will keep you posted!

[Beeman]

how did you check the alternator? and starter?.. was it running (as a package) fine before the reverse polarity?

Seems really strange that two things went in one shot. It would also seem strange to me that the regulator wouldn't be able to handle such a situation and I wonder if there is simple answer.. hmm..