Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman 42 Lawn Tractor w/15.5 Kohler, switch jumper, jumper wire

Question
This unit was working fine for the last 8 years until today.  I was cutting the grass and the unit just killed. I recently changed all filters and oil.  Anyway, I pulled the spark plug and determined that there was no spark.  I started checking the wiring harness and found that one of the two relays was sort of melted in place.  I pried it off with a screw driver.  What do these two relays do?  What do you recommend I do to determine why I have no spark?

Answer
Hello Ky:

Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Upper Left Search Box and Click Go. Then Visually Verify the Equipment and Click Continue. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. Replace the Relay. The Relay you are Asking about is the Safety Relay and Works in the Safety System of the Mower. If the Relay is Bad the Safety System will Prevent the Engine from having Spark at the Plug. Once the Relay is Replaced the Fire Should Return to the Engine. If Not, then 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. 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