Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Loud Click from Selenoid, soleniod, volts

Question
Hi There, I have a practically new Toro LX-420. I've only used it about 8 times. When I go to start it, the I hear one loud click from the selenoid under the seat, and it doesn't start. Multimeter reading of the battery is 12.3 Volts. I never recalled the selenoid clicking so loudly before. I'm assuming the reason it's not turning over is the selenoid or the starter. Is there any sure-fire way to verify one or the other?

I saw one method in another post that involves 'jumping' the selenoid, but would I have to be sitting in the seat to do this, or would the starter crank as soon as I touched the other post of the selenoid?

Thanks.

Answer
 Hello Andy:

 You Dont need to be Seated when you are Jumping the Soleniod. This is Like Straight Wiring the Starter to the Battery. If you Jumper the Soleniod and the Starter turns, then the Soleniod is Bad. If it Doesnt Turn, then the Starter is Dragging or Binding. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please. I enjoy knowing the Outcome. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John