Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman Riding Lawn Mower, amp fuse, jumper wire

Question
Hi- My Dad gave me a Craftsman Riding lawn mower last week. The model # is 502.255020 and the engine is a Tecumseh #143.426072.It is an early 90's model. He gave it to me because it would not start so I brought to where I work and let the mechanic look at it if he had time. The problem is not the engine would barely turn over so the first thing he did was check battery and he said was bad. He charged it up so he could continue is diagnosis. After that the engine would turn over but not start. He took out spark plug to see if there was fire. No fire.He changed spark plug. No fire.He check the safety switch under the seat and said it was good. Also check the 15 amp fuse. Good. That is as far as he got before I got tired of waiting and I took the mower home.Now I need advice on what to try next. I have the complete owners manual with all parts list including breakdowns on engine, starter, etc.Any ideas?

Answer
Hello David:

Remove the Shut Off Wire from the Coil/Ignition Module. Does the Engine Fire? If Yes, then a Safety Switch is Bad. If No, then the Coil/Ignition Module is Bad. The First Safety Switch to Check is the Clutch/Brake. 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. Check the Clutch/Break and the Blade/PTO Safety Switchs 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