Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tractor wont start, battery cables, cuurent

Question

Expert: Eric A. Jones
Date: 5/12/2005
Subject: TORO Lawn Tractor Start Problem

Question
Hi - I have a Toro Lawn Tractor model 17-44 HXL which is 4 years old. Never had a problem, last used it in November and stored it in a dry garage for the winter. I went out to start it for spring mowing and when I turn the starter key I just get a very fast, rapid-fire "click-click-click-click" sound but the engine doesn't turn over - it doesn't sound liek the starter is even engaging the engine to start it. Is this an indication of a bad starter or something else altogether ? Thanks in advance for any help you can offer !
Eric-you answered this as a battery issue. I have this same problem and have replaced the battery 3 times and the selenoid 2 times. The cuurent battery is charged, the selenoid was replced late summer and now I get the clicking. VERY FRUSTRATING. Any suggestions? deadman switch issue? Somehow selenoid gets destroyed?

Answer
Usually the clicking is an indication of a weak battery or dirty cables.  Did you dis-connect the battery cables and clean the battery posts and cable ends with a wirebrush?  I would also dis-connect the ground/negative cable and clean the cable and metal ground point with a wirebrush.

Are you familar with how electric startering systems work?

What is the tractor model number?  It will be a 5 or 6 digit number located on a sticker.  
Eric