Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): starter or selenoid?, selenoid, solenoid

Question
In answering a question re: starter or selenoid, you said to jump from the (+) battery to the starter. After I do this, if the starter is working, will the engine start with only the connection or do I need to turn the key? I notice that the connection bolt on the starter that connects the cable from the selenoid to the starter is hot and there is one click but the engine won't turn over.I just replaced the starter last summer. Could it be the starter again?

Answer
Hi Theresa,

The connection from the battery to the starter should be momentary and only to test the starter.  If good, the starter will turn over as soon as the connection is made.  Then, the problem is elsewhere.  Probably the solenoid but test that also.

Michael