Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Lawn Tractor, Blades Wont Stay Engaged., craftsman lawn tractor, appropriate boxes

Question
Hi John,
I have a Craftsman, 18.5HP, 42" deck. Model # 917.273641.
The mower starts fine and idles smooth. My problem is that when I engage the mower deck/blades, it will run for less than a minute and then stop completely. If I turn the deck off then back on again, nothing happens. If I shut the tractor off, and come back later it will do the same thing. I am seated at the time so don't suspect the seat switch nor the brake switch. The one thing I have noticed is that the battery voltage drops to about +3 when this happens. Could a battery problem cause the deck blades to stop? Any thoughts as to what to check? Any/all help is appreciated. Thanks, John

Answer
Hello John:

This Sounds like a Stator (Charger) Problem. If the Voltage Does Not Stay Above 10.5VDC when the PTO is Engaged, then the Engine will Quit Due to the Carburetor Solenoid Not Staying Open and the PTO Require 10.5VDC Minimum to Operate. According to the Breakdown of this Mower at the Sears Site, this Mower has a Briggs Engine, Model 31P777-0348. You can Use this Site Addy to Assist you in Identifying the Correct Charging/Stator. http://www4.briggsandstratton.com/miscpdfs/RNT/alternator_id.pdf and Use this Site Addy for Testing/Checking the Charging System. http://faqs.custhelp.com/rnt/rnw/img/enduser/105-AC_DC_test_chart.jpg . You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/manual_and_more/doclist.aspx?categ... and Enter the Model Numbers (31P777) and Type Numbers (0348) in the Appropriate Boxes and Click GO. Then Select Download PDF. To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action and Enter the Model Numbers (917.273641) and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists for you Equipment Using the "View Sub Components" Section. 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John