Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): MTD alternator?, speed shift, ohv engine

Question
I have a MTD 6 speed  "shift on the go" riding lawn mower.
the last 2 times i used the lawnmower it was hard to start.

Meaning: i turned the ignition and it made a clicking sound....wouldn't "turn over"
so i turned it off and on several more times.....eventually, it started to respond...and after about 10 failed "starts" ....it cranked up.

to me it sounds like the alternator...
So.....
1. how do i find the alternator/and check it?
2. where can i find an alternator to replace this one
3. is this something most people can do on there on....or is it a definant "take it to the laen mower shop" kind of thing?
thx,
dan  

Answer
Sounds more like poor/dirty connections, or else if the engine is
an OHV engine, you might need to adjust your valves, but I would
put money on poor/dirty connections.

To check the alt., you would need a voltmeter, and just check the
battery when the engine is running, if the alt. is OK, it would read at least 1 volt higher when running.

If not, let me know.