Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): charging system on riding mower, soleniod, battery check

Question
thanks for answering my question in advance. I,ve got a sears mower model 917-271-1022 that don't seam to be charging the battery right. With the mower running should,nt you be able to remove the battery cable from the battery, and the mower stay running? The amp guage on the mower shows the system is charging the needle goes to the right. It blowed a diode on the alternator a while back i replaced it. The lights burn bright when you turn them on don,t this show that the alternator is working some what since the lights only run of of the alternator and not the battery. any suggestions.

Answer
 Hello Robert:

 If this Mower has a Carburator Soleniod in the Carburator Bowl, then it will Shut Off as soon as you Disconnect the Battery. Check the Battery for a Bad/Weak Cell. If the Battery has a Bad/Weak Cell, the Bad/Weak Cell will Draw the Good Cells Down to the Level of the Bad/Weak Cell. Dont Trust the Dash Gauge. Use a Volt Meter on the Battery while the Engine is Running at Full Throttle. Voltage should be 12.8VDC to 14.0VDC. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John