Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere 314 drains battery, john deere 314, ac volts

Question
my grandfather has a John Deere 314 lawn tractor, it has a 14 hp kohler, single cylinder engine on it.  it runs exceptionally well, but it drains the battery down when it is not running.  I didn't take much of a look at it, but I'm guessing, ifit does have an alternator on it, that it is broke.  like I said I didn't take much of a look at it, but alternator is my wild guess, it is atleast about 12 years old I'm not sure exactly, but I didn't manage to get the numbers.  it uses a standard 12v car battery, could it have a short, or a bad wire somewhere and would that cause it to drain the battery?  what do you think I should do?  I am going to take a much better look at it next time I go out there, but I would like to you what you think.  thanks.

Answer
Hello Justin:

>>I Suggest you Check the Stator/Charging Coil/Alternator and Ensure it is Charging Correctly and have the Battery Load Tested at your Local Small Engine Service Center or Local Automotive Parts Retailer (Advance, NAPA, ext).
>>For Testing the Electrical (Charging) System on Mowers you can Use this Site Addy; http://engines.myfaqcenter.com/Answer.aspx?p_faqid=3438 and Use the Link for AC Volts/DC Amps Meter Setting Chart. This is for Briggs Engines and Works Well for Kohler and Other Engine OEMs.
>>If the Stator and Battery are Good, then
>>Check the Ign Switch and Starter Solenoid.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers 314 and Click Find. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. *You can Drag the View Windows for Better Viewing.*
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John