QuestionI was given a yard machine 17.5 hp 42" deck. My friend told me sometimes the switch for the cutting lever does not operate. I just put in a brand new battery and tried to start it following the starting instructions and it does not turn over nor give any signs of life. What or how can I check to see if the starter or what makes the engine turn over? I also noticed that when I sit on the seat the under part of the seat touches the negative part of the battery will that also be a benefactor in trying to start the machine? What do I have to check first do you have any clue? No light switch to check if any power is coming thru.
AnswerThe seat hitting the negative battery post will not short the battery but I would fix this first...you do NOT want the seat to contact the positive battery terminal or worse, both battery posts at the same time.
As for the starting issue, you can perform the old solenoid short test to see if the battery can turn the starter. I prefer not to use this method because I don't like sparks. However, in a pinch and as a time saver you can use a large screwdriver, with a well insulated plastic handle, to short both starting solenoid posts; just place the metal part of the screwdriver on both starter solenoid posts. You are basically conneting the battery directly to the starter by shorting the posts...there will be a few sparks when you short the posts so be very careful.
The better method is troubleshoot the safety switches. You need a multimeter to test the switches. Since you know the deck switch was giving problems in the part I would start with that switch. The switches are simple open/close or on/off switches...just like a light switch in your house.
Can you send me the model number, located on a sticker about the size of a business card, so I can see if a wiring diagram is available? The sticker is usually under the seat or rear fenders and the model number format will be similar to xxx-xxx-xxx.
Eric
