Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): riding mower will not start, craftsman riding mower, jumper cable

Question
I have a craftsman riding mower, when I went to start it all it did was whine, did not turn over at all.  Has happened in the past, but would always turn over and start after one or two turns of the key after the whining.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks

Answer
Hi Bill,

It sounds like the starter drive has failed.  Try jumping the starter, by connecting a jumper cable from the positive battery post and touching the other end to the terminal on the starter.  If it whines the same way, then you have isolated the problem to the starter.  The drive may be replacable or you may need to replace the entire starter.  Check with a starter repair or mower shop.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael