QuestionI just put a 14.5hp b&s from a 98 Murray rider on my old snapper comet (cuts smoother anyway). Previously, it had an 8hp pull start, but the 14.5hp motor is an electric start. The side of the engine has two wiring harnesses. One is grey/white and the other is red/(i'm not sure of the color, maybe black). Now, I've got a new battery, and I haven't yet purchased an ignition switch yet. The mower doesn't have lights so I have no need for that part of the diagram. My question: How do I need to go about hooking up the battery to the motor? If I must have an ignition switch, I would prefer to not have a keyed one (if even possible). Do they make a push button switch? Please help me! I'm clueless!
AnswerDo you have any electrical experience?
You must use a solnoid. It connectes between battery and starter acting like a switch. One side connects to the positive side of the battery and the other to the starter.
I would find or just use your old solenoid off the Murray mower. The solenoid should have a small post electrical connection. This is what activates the solenoid. Using a push button available from most any parts store or mower shop, connect one side of the starter button to the small post on the soleniod and the other side of the switch to the battery. When you push the starter button it sends 12 volts from the battery, through the starter button to the small post on the solenoid causing the starter to turn the engine.
You will need a toggle or basic key switch to turn off the engine. You should find an electrical connection on the engine usually near the throttle cable connection. This is the engine shut-off wire. Just connect one side of the toggle switch or key to the mower frame and the other to the terminal block on the engine.
Now all you need is a charging system. This depends on your alternator.
Check out this link to identify your alternator:
http://www.briggsandstratton.com/miscpdfs/RNT/alternator_replacement.pdf
Let me know if this helps.
Eric
