Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Mower Electric, jumper wire, gear cutter

Question
My Scott 17hp mower won't start. When I turn the key to start, I hear a click come from the starter relay. My meter shows voltage at the lead from the battery and no voltage at the lead to the starter when I hit the start. Both measured at the solenoid. Are there other inputs somewhere that are inhibiting the start? No other overrides like the seat switch and in-gear cutter should be stopping the operation. The mower is a Scott 17hp D62200A. Product Ident numberMO174S062326. Also, how do I get the dust cover off the wheel nut without destroying it and where can I buy another relay?

Answer
Hello Richard:

If the PTO Switch is Bad or the Transaxle/Neutral Safety is Bad, then you will have the Problem you Described. The Safety System is Designed so the Starter Relay will Not Even Turn the Engine if the PTO or the Transaxle is Engaged even with the Seat Safety Switch Working. I Suggest you Check the Safety Switches First. The Following is an Instruction File for the Safety Switch System. Any Input is Appreciated. The Color Code of the Wires May be Different than those I Use as a Reference in the Instruction File. **PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHECKING THE SAFETY SWITCHES IS JUST THAT!!! FOR CHECKING ONLY. I NEVER Suggest a Mower be Operated with a Safety Device or Switch Disconnected or Bypassed. Now. On Some Model Mowers you can Simply Unplug the Safety Switch from the Harness. On Other Models you have to Place a Jumper Wire Between the Harness Terminals (on the 4 Post Switch (Clutch/Brake) Jumper from Same Color Wire white to White First and then Check for Fire, Now Include the Black to Black Wires if No Fire. Check the Clutch/Brake and the Blade/PTO Safety Switches First. Check the Seat Safety Last. Usually the Seat Safety is Not in the System for Starting the Engine. Just to Ensure Someone is in the Seat when Engaging the Transaxle and/or Blades. Use a Paper Clip or a Short Wire to Make a Jumper.** You can Purchase a Solenoid at Most Automotive Parts Retailer or your Local Small Engine Service Center. Please, Do Not Hesitate, 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. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. 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