Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Toro Wheel Horse 12-38 HXL Starting Problems, jumper cables, spark plug wire

Question
Toro Wheel Horse 12-38 HXL Starting Problems - Model # 71181.
Thought my son left lights on and drained the battery because I went to start it up and nothing, not a click, turnover, nothing.  I replaced the battery and still nothing.  I was able to get the mower to turn over but not start by putting jumper cables from the battery to the starter then again to the solenoid.  But still wouldn't start completely.  What can I do next?

Thanks in advance.

Answer
Go to this link for your manuals:

https://homeownersolutions.toro.com/portal/server.pt/community/product_center/225#manualsResultPage

Open the "Toro XL Tractor Electrical Demystification Guide  [ English ] " for the electrical system service manual.

Conduct trouble-shooting one step at a time.  Get the starter to turn/crank  the engine.  First, make sure the new battery is fully charged.   TIP:  dis-connect the battery cables and clean the battery terminal posts and battery cable ends with a wirebrush.  Re-connect...red to positive.  I've fixed a lot of starting problems just by cleaning the connections.

Once the starter is cranking the engine, check for spark.  An inline spark tester is the best tool for checking spark but you can remove the spark plug, re-connect it to the spark plug wire and ground the tip of the spark plug to a metal engine part.  Crank the engine and ched for spark.  You may need someone to help you check for spark.

If you spark then fuel is the next system to check.

Let me know if the manuals help and you get the engine to crank using the starter.

Eric