Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Problems starting my mower, sears craftsman, switch jumper

Question
Hi John,

I have a Sears Craftsman 17.5 Kolhner rider 42" Model 944.600750 and it wont turn over at all.  When I turn the key to the headlight stage (not all the way to the right) I hear a low buzzing sound.  What's this likely to be ?  Solenoid?  I have no idea and appreciate any help.

Ben responded before he went on vacation and said...
"Have you checked the battery? or the starter? If you hear a low buzzing sound the solenoid is working."

I did put booster cables on at first assuming it was the battery but it made no difference.  When you turn the key all the way absolutely nothing happens.  I don't know how to check the starter?  Any ideas?

thanks a lot

Answer
Hello Marty:

Can you Check the Model Numbers, Please. I can Not Locate a Manual with these Numbers. Some of the Sears Mowers have a Trio of Relays Under the Seat that will Do this When Bad. Usually the Middle Relay of the Trio is the Cause. Switch One of the Outer Relays with the Center One. If the Engine Turns Over, then Replace the Relay. Here are Some Other Checks you can Perform Also. 1- 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. 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 Turns the Engine Properly, Then Check the Solenoid. Firmly Touch the Small Post at the Base of the Solenoid. If The Starter Does Not Turn and the Solenoid Clicks, Then the Solenoid is Bad. 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