Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Troy-Bilt 13AX60TG766 No Power, mtd mowers, electrical issues

Question
Just the other day I was cutting the grass go off of the lawn mower with the brake depressed to keep the engine running. As I walked away the engine just shut off with the brake still depressed. We had been having issues with the battery so I went and got our jumpstart and tried to jump it off. Nothing happened no power no click no nothing. I assumed the battery was finally shot and bought a new battery still, no power no clicks no nothing. I was informed by a friend of mine that there is a fuse near the Solenoid that could cause electrical issues, this part being a Rectifier/Regulator. I have spotted the part and its p/n is 41-403-09 (or 41-403-406) depending on where you look online. Would this part going bad kill all electrical to the engine?

Thanks

Josh
Tampa, FL

Answer
The rectifier and regulator isn't a fuse and is part of the charging system.  They convert AC voltage to DC and control the output voltage respectively.

The ignition system is independant of the charging system.

So what has to be determined is what the underlying problem is.  First, there is a fuse inline.  It will be hanging in the wiring by the steering shaft or maybe clipped to the firewall.  It may be in a covered holder.  It should be about a 20amp automotive style blade fuse.  If you can't find it there, on some MTD mowers it's under the frame under the seat.

Check for this fuse first.  If the fuse isn't blown you will need a voltmeter to keep searching.  Do you have one?  Thanks, PK.