Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 16hp Briggs & Stratton Twin II Wont Start., briggs stratton, battery cables

Question
Hello Mr Jones,
I have a Yard Pro lawn tractor with a Briggs&Stratton 16hp Twin II. The engine won't turn over. I have installed a new battery(fully charged), and new spark plugs, but everytime I turn the key I get one click and that's it. I have been told that there are 3 switches on the tractor. Is that true? I am not the most mechanically inclined but what could be the problem? Thank you for your time.

Answer
Will it turn over is you remove the spark plugs?

Yes there are three safety switched on the tractor but if you are hearing a click then the switches are most likely fine.  The click you are hearing is the solenoid.

You may want to inspect the starter gear as will to ensure it is not binding against the flywheel ring gear.

I would recommend dis-connecting the battery cables and cleaning the battery terminals and the cable ends with a wire brush.

Let me know what you find.
Eric