i have a huskee ridder model #14av807p131 s # 1b010a10387 but if i leave it sit for a week battery is way low.. how do i check for a draw on it?? any help thanks i did put a new battery in it last week be today it was low again..

Hi! randy 1212

http://gardentractorpullingtips.com/starter.htm

Here's a couple of good reads, they are for car batteries, but the same applies to tractor bats:

Starts on page 14
http://www.autoshop101.com/forms/hweb4.pdf

Battery Drain Parasitic Draw Testing (http://flashoffroad.com/electrical/Batteries/BatteryDrain.html)

One thing I've found that you have to watch is, dirt build-up between contacts like switches, and relays this will cause a conductive pathway. A dirty battery top will cause a path between the battery leads, but since you have a new one, you can rule that out.

Check for frayed ends at connectors that may allow drainage.

Then you need to keep in mind the charging system, Tractor's need to be run at the highest throttle setting so RPMS are maintained, Run the throttle at 3/4 or less, and there won't be enough engine speed to charge.

Worst case is a problem with the diodes under the engine cowling, make sure it's clean under the screen, so no dirt can get in the air gap of the stator and flywheel.

k

Hi,
You can get the manual from MTD. Having looked at the schematic in it, I would be suspicious of the ignition switch.
You can check for a parasitic load by disconnecting the cables from the battery and connecting an ohmmeter to them. My guess is it will show about a kilohm resistance instead of OL. Then try unplugging the connector on the back of the ignition switch to see if it changes. If it does, that is the problem; if not, start looking for a bare wire.
Peace,
Clarke