Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan 42 dont start, switch jumper, jumper wire

Question
It has a 14.5 engine and 42" cut. I replace battery and solenoid. But still don't start usiinig the key, but when I touch with screwdriver both sides of solenoid it start perfect and runs perfect. Can you advice.

Answer
Hello Rey:

This is Caused by a Bad Safety Switch (or Connection) or a Bad Solenoid. 1- Instead of Jumping from Large Post to Large Post on the Solenoid, Jumper from the Battery Side of the Solenoid to the Small Post that has the Isn Switch Wire on it. If the Starter Engages, then the Solenoid is Good. 2- Checking the Safety Switches. **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 Jumper from Same Color Wire to Same Color Wire). Check the Clutch/Break 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.** 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