Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): starter on my riding lawn mower, craftsman lawn mower, jumper cable

Question
my craftsman lawn mower will not start. It was running and i ran it out of gas. I put gas in it and when i went to turn it over it just makes a squealing noise like the starter is not engaging to turn the engine over. thank you for any help

Answer
Hello Fred:

From your Description it Sounds like the Starter Drive Gear is Cracked/Damaged. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine or the Mower Model Numbers, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Engine Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. However, here is the Solenoid and Starter Check Instruction File. **(with the Spark Plug/s Removed) To Check the Solenoid and Starter, Once you are Sure the Battery is Fully Charged/New, then Use your Jumper Cable Set and Attach the Positive Lead Onto the Positive Post of the Battery (make sure the Battery is Fully Charged or is a New Battery). Now Firmly Touch the Large Post on the Starter. If the Starter Does Not Turn and you can turn the Engine by Hand, then the Starter is Bad. If the Starter Turns the Engine Properly, Then Check the Solenoid. Firmly Touch the Small Post at the Base of the Solenoid that has the Ign Wire Attached to it. If The Starter Does Not Turn and the Solenoid Clicks, Then the Solenoid is Bad.** You May have to Remove the Starter or Blower Housing (depending on the engine model) and Lubricate the Starter Drive. If Lubricating the Starter Drive Does Not Correct the Problem, then Remove the Starter and Check the Drive Gear. I can Supply you with a Breakdown that will Assist in the Disassembly and Reassembling of the Starter and Starter Drive Gear. The Starter Drive Gear May be Cracked and is Not Traveling Up the Starter Drive Shaft Due to the Crack or the Inner Drive Grooves May have Stripped. 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