Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears lawn tractor model 917.271814, starter solenoid, jumper cable

Question
John, I brought my mower out for the spring, and tried to start it.  Cranked slowly but never started.  Then clicked a few times.  Then nothing.  Have replaced the battery but to no avail.  Now it just seems like there is no juice to anything.  Help!

Answer
Hello Bruce:

Check the Fuse. Check the Starter Solenoid. Use the Positive Jumper Cable Lead and Touch the Small Post at the Base of the Solenoid. If the Starter Engages, then the Solenoid is Good. Check the Starter. Take a Jumper Cable Set and Attach Them to the Battery in the Mower. Now Attach the Ground Lead to the Starter Body or Engine. Then FIRMLY Touch the Large Post on the Starter. Does the Engine Turn Correctly. If the Engine Turns, But Turns Slowly or Turns Part Way and then Suddenly Turns Slowly, then The Valves are Out of Adjustment.the If No, then Remove the Starter and Bench Test it. Do the Same as When it was Mounted on the Engine. If the Starter Turns Good on the Bench, then the Valves May Need Adjusting. Check the Wire from Ignition Switch to the Solenoid. When the Ignition Switch is Turned to the Engine Start Position and Held as if Starting the Engine, there should be Voltage to the Solenoid on this Wire.   If None of these Suggestions Correct the Problem, then Send me a Follow Up, Please. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I Forgot to have you Check (Jumper out) the Safety Switches After you Check the Starter if Everthing Else Checks Out OK.

Respectfully

John