Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 12 HP Briggs and Stratton Wont Start, briggs and stratton, craftsman riding mower

Question
HI TIM,

I PURCHASED AN OLDER CRAFTSMAN RIDING MOWER THIS YEAR AND MOWED MY GRASS FOR THE FIRST TIME LAST WEEKEND.  THE MOWER WORKED GOOD FOR ABOUT 45 MINUTES, THEN LOST RPM'S AND STALLED.  I LET IT COOL FOR ABOUT A HALF HOUR AND FINISHED THE YARD JUST BEFORE IT HAPPENED AGAIN.  aFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH, I DECIDED TO REPLACED THE IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG.  AFTER DOING THIS, I CAN'T GET THE THING TO START WITHOUT JUMPING THE BATTERY.  IS THERE SOMETHING I COULD HAVE DONE TO DRAIN THE BATTERY?  I AM BRINGING THE BATTERY TO BE TESTED TODAY.  ANY SUGGESTIONS?

BRIGGS AND STRATTON
MODEL: 281707
TYPE: 0416 01
CODE: 90020211

Answer
Hello Evan,if you know the battery is old it is probably in need of electrolytes. There is a simple method of checking the electrolytes and that would be using this tool called the hydrometer. To check for specific gravity of the electroyte, it is drawn up into the hydrometer. 1.250 (minimum) good condition, 1.280 (maximum) good condtion if you have any thing lower is considered bad. Electrolyte is a electric conductor in which current is carried. And for the RPMS' take a look at your governor. The primary purpose of your governor is to control the engine at the desired speed. I hope this helps!