Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Starter, jumper wire, bolens

Question
I have a Bolens 8HP Briggs and startton riding mower from the 70's (a 631 I believe)and the starter started to whine, then smoked. I had it tested and it was bad so I replaced it with a new one. Now all I get is a mechanical click and no power to the starter. Is it possible the solenoid melted and needs to be replaced? I ask because I placed a jumper wire from the positive battery lead to the starter and I got a good spark, but not enough to engage the motor because it was only #12 electrical wire.

2nd question: the flywheel on this engine doen't turn at all. I don't think it ever did and there's good oil in the engine. I was just curious about the flywheel. The engine worked fine prior to the starter smoking. Thanks for your help.

John

Answer
It is possible the solenoid is shot.  You can replace it for less than $20.00.

As for the flywheel, it must turn for the engine to run.  Did you remove the top engine cover to replace the starter?  If so, then you saw the flywheel on top of the crankshaft.  You should be able to turn it by hand.  Removing the spark plug will make turning the flywheel much eaiser.

I would also leave the spark plug out while you test the starter.  This will put less strain on the starter.

Let me know if you can turn the flywheel by hand.
Eric