Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): mower wont start, sears craftsman, jumper wire

Question
I've got a Sears craftsman 15.5hp riding lawn mower-42in. cut (approx. 10 years old) always worked great. The other day I could smell something burning. I turned off the mower and brushed off some of the dry grass thinking that was the problem. When I tried to start the mower again it just made a 'clunk' noise but wouldn't turn over. It still had oil and the battery still has juice. (Someone suggested it could be the electronic clutch?) any ideas? Thank you for volunteering your expertise!!

Answer
Hi Jeremy,

The clutch shouldn't prevent the engine from turning over, so I would check the starter first.  Jump the positive battery terminal to the starter and it should crank over.  If not, the starter is bad.  If good, then you will need to trace the entire circuit from the starter to the battery.   All testing can be done with a 12 volt light or a voltmeter.   The solenoid, switches the battery power to the starter, when power from the key switch is sent to the small terminal on the solenoid. To test the solenoid, first make sure that you have power at its large terminal which comes from the battery. Then jump power from that terminal or the battery positive post, to its small terminal. You should hear a click and the other large terminal that feeds the starter should be energized. If not, then the solenoid is bad. If good, then continue tracing the power through the key switch to the battery until you find the break in the power path. Most equipment has safety switches in the seat and on the blade engagement lever. Check them by temporarily bypassing with a small jumper wire.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael