Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Riding Lawnmower 16.0 HP, craftsman riding lawnmower, switch jumper

Question
Total automotive idiot here. I have a Craftsman 16.0 P 42" Cut Automatic Lawn Tractor Model No 917.272060 with a Kohler Engine. It won't start. I had a problem in the Spring with it and I put a new Ignition Switch on it. It seemed to run okay for a while. Then a couple of weeks ago I used it, went back out the next day to use it and nothing. I get a click when I turn the key, then nothing. If I recharge the battery, put in it, I get a click, then nothing. I get a click each time I recharge the battery, then it does nothing. Its like something is completely draining the battery. No headlights, no nothing. I checked the fuse, its fine. I have no idea where to start checking things on this. Any advice on where to start?

Answer
Hello Marci:

1- Have the Battery LOAD Tested. There May be a Bad Cell in the Battery. Your Local Auto Service Center should be Able to Load Test the Battery for you. 2- 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, then the Starter is Bad. 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. 3- 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. The Headlights Usually will Not Work Until the Engine is Running. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. 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