Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): how the charging system works, hp engine, laymans terms

Question
Hello Mr. John,
 I have a john deere with an onan 16 hp engine on it that was given to me by a friend. I have replaced the coil, sparkplugs, and electronic ignition and the motor runs great. The problem I have is that the battery seems to go down on it after a few weeks. I do not understand how the charging system works to try to fix it myself. There is not any other wires on the battery but the main cables themselves. Should there be an extra wire comming from the magneto to the battery, or at least to a voltage regulator and then to the battery? Can you please explain to me in laymans terms exactly how the charging system is supposed to work and maybe it will help me to troubleshoot it some more.

                    Respectfully,
                     Jay P.

Answer
Hello Jay:

You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Find. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. They May be Under the Seat. 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