Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): wont hold charge, craftsman model, fly wheel


Question
I have an old craftsman model #917.254245  12hp 38Inch deck lawn tractor.  Tecumseh model # 143.386012  I have a new starter new battery but it won't hold a charge.  I am trying to get the coil assembly/alternator off but i don't know how.  I can't get the fly wheel off.  Can you help?

Thanks
Joseph

Answer
Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): wont hold charge, craftsman model, fly wheel
book
   It is best to buy the recommended tool to thread onto the threads
or use two nuts from the hardware store to protect the threads.

I have attached a Scan from Tecumseh book.

If you are having the difficulty turning the engine over, instead of a real battery problem, let me know and we can go through the valve adj. procedure, as that is common on these engines.  The valves get too loose, and the compression release won't work.

Let me know.