Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): how to repair the starter on john deere model 130, john deere model, cable nut

Question
how do you get the tractor open.

Answer
Open or remove the hood for greater access to the engine.  Dis-connect the positive battery cable.  Remove the top engine shroud to access the starter.  Remove the two starter retaining bolts and the battery cable nut.

Is the battery good?  Will the starter turn the engine with the spark plugs removed?  While starters do go bad, most of the time I find bad batteries or other problems such as safety switches causing the starter not to work.

Let me know.
Eric