Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): solenoid, starter solenoid, jumper wire

Question
The problem has to be either the small exciter wire not receiving 12 volts DC when the key is in the start position or a bad starter solenoid.

Did you use a jumper wire connected to the positive battery terminal and connecting the other end of the jumper wire to the small exciter post on the starter solenoid?

With the key off and in the run position, is there 12 volts DC on the small solenoid post/wire?

Let me know.
Eric
I used the jumper wire and did not have 12v.
no 12v dc on small solenoid either.
I ordered a solenoid and will let you know what happens
rob

Answer
You need to use a jumper wire from the battery or 12 volt DC source and connect the jumper to the small exciter on the solenoid.  The solenoid had to be bolted to the metal chasis as this provides the ground to complete the circuit.

You can test the solenoid off the mower just use 2 jumper wires, one for ground connected to the metal mounting plate on the solenoid and then connect the positive 12 volt DC to the solenoid exciter.  You should hear the solenoid click.

Eric