Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): riding mower, dead battery

Question
Craftsman mower started right up after setting all winter in garage. Mowed for an hour after mowing the battery was dead and have had to jump it ever since. Can you suggest what has happened? Thanks.

Answer
The first thing to check is the connections to the battery.  After that check the battery.  Put it on a charger and see if it will take a charge.  If it will, then check the voltage when fully charged and take it to an auto parts store and ask them to load test it.  Most do this for free.  It's pretty common for a battery that sits up connected for a couple of months to go bad.  The cells develop corrosion internally and bridge together, the plates break down and other things.

If the battery tests good, then with a voltmeter, check the battery voltage with the key off and then again with the engine running.  When running there should be a jump of 1-2 volts.

Try these things and let me know what you find.  Thanks, PK.