Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears 17hp model 917.270711, switch jumper, jumper wire

Question
It wouldn't start. Replaced 4 year old battery but solenoid still wouldn't engage. I put my voltmeter on the white wire and ground to see if the ignition switch was working and it starts perfectly. It will only energize the solenoid when I have a voltmeter connected to the white wire on the switch and ground. I don't have a schematic.

Answer
Hello Ron:

From your Description, it Sounds like a Safety Switch is Bad or is Not Making a Good Connection. **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. Some Models have a Relay Under the Seat that can Cause this (I did not see a Relay in this Mowers Breakdown). 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.** To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. 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