Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): keeps trying to start, starter solenoid, ac volts

Question
I have a bolens ridding mower. I had a problem starting it so I cleaned the carb and it ran fine for an hour. Until the battery went dead, when I charged it and put it back in the mower it tried to turn over with the key out and continued to try and turn over until i  removed the negative lead off the battery.
Any ideas?
Also the mower does not seem to be charging the battery.

Answer
Hello Dave:

You can View a Breakdown of this Unit at this Site Addy; http://www.buymtdonline.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Home_Bolens_10101_19502_-1 and Select the Use Our Detailed Parts Finder. Then Enter the Model Number and Click Search. Then Double Click on your Model. From your Description it Sounds like the Starter Solenoid is Sticking and Requires Replacing. Depending on the Engine Model, the Stator or the Voltage Regulator May Require Replacing. Using a Low Voltage/Weak Battery will Usually cause this Problem with the Starter Solenoid. If you Jumpered the Small Engine with an Automobile and the Auto Engine was Running at the Time, then the Auto Charging System Shorted the Small Engine Charging System. Never Use a Running Engine to Jump a Samll Engine. The Charging Systems Usually are Different and the Larger AMP System will Short the Lower AMP System (Usually the Small Engine System). Most Stators can be Tested Using the Guide at the Following Site Addy; For Testing the Electrical (Charging) System on Mowers you can Use this Site Addy; http://faqs.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faqs.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=3438&p... and Use the Link for AC Volts/DC Amps Meter Setting Chart. This is for Briggs Engines and Works Well for Kohler and Other Engine OEMs. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John