Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Murray lawn tractor 12.5hp wont start, briggs straton, murray lawn tractor

Question
Hello,

I have a 2001 Murray Lawn Tractor with a 12.5HP Briggs & Straton motor. The battery is fulley charged and when I try to start the motor, the starter engages and turns slowly, and sounds like it is draging. Then I cycle the key and try again then the starter solenoid clicks rapidly, the starter will not engauge.

Thank you for your time and help,
Darrell

Answer
Hello Darrell:

Has the Battery been Checked for a Weak/Bad Cell? 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 or Turns Slowly, then the Starter is Bad or the Battery has a Weak/Bad Cell. 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. If the Battery is Good, then the Valve Clearance May Need to be Reset. On the OHV Engines the Compression Release will Not Operate Properly and Cause the Starting Problem you Described. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem, then I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John