Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawnflite 904 ride on mower, electric clutch, motor voltage

Question
I have a lawnflite ride mower 904 which will not start, i have checked the battery its good, replaced the solenoid and when i turn the key nothing at all happens not even the voltage meter moves (next to the key ignition)please help grass is growing we are trying to sell our house lawn looks awful.
many thanks

Answer
First thing to check is the fuse.  Next would be to be sure your battery is fully charged.  A fully charged battery will read 12.6 volts DC.  Next be sure all connections are clean and tight.  Next find all grounds and be sure they are clean and tight.

The solenoid does not click it means that the solenoid is bad or that something in safety system of the start circuit is not safe.  The first thing I always start at is the seat switch.  The  Seat switch has to be made for the system to start and it is the easiest one to get at.  next check the PTO switch if you have an electric PTO you will have a double pole double throw switch meaning that one switch controls two circuits.  Both switches have to test good they can be tested with the continuity meter to see if they open and close properly.  If you do not have an electric clutch there is probably a safety switch along the linkage used to engage the blades.

From there you follow 12 volts DC through the circuit.  That circuit will be from the battery to the large top connector on the solenoid the lower small terminals on the solenoid connect the safety system.  Start at one end follow it through to you come back to the solenoid 12 bolts should go along that circuit and back to the solenoid and never to ground.  12 will then goes from the other terminal on the solenoid to the terminal on the starter motor voltage then goes from the starter motor to ground.  That is the circuit.

If the long that circuit you cannot find 12 volts on each side of the switch look for a loose connection or a broken wire, or a bad switch.

Good luck in your project