I have a 03 Craftsman 15.5 hp riding lawn mower. The 30amp fuse between the solenoid and ignition switch keeps blowing when I try to start it. I changed the solenoid and the fuse. My battery was low so I used an extra car battery to jump it. I turned the key and heard the fuse pop. I suspect the switch but not sure. If anyone can help me that would be great.

Are you sure you reconnected the wires correctly?

Yes. Turns out the fuse blew before I even changed the solenoid. O chances are the first solenoid wasn't even bad. Thanks for the reply

If you are certain all the wires are connected correctly, and you were shooting fuses before the repairs. Then you need to trace the wires to search for a bare "naked" spot on a wire that is arcing against the frame somewhere. One place to look is on the right side of the frame (on the top side) over by where the deck height lever is located. To me it was a bad design on some of these units to run the wires UNDER the levers rod. To get there either remove the panel under the steering column (if applicable) or it may be easier to remove the fuel tank and or battery to gain access. If at first you can not hear or see the spark, wait until it is dark and try it. You should be able to see the spark at night.

I have been going through the wiring and found one of the two relays and socket was burned. Do you feel that this is the cause or could there be another contributing factor that would cause it to burn? I really appreciate you help with this. I went through 10 fuses trying to see another arch somewhere else on the harness. I can get the starter to engage if I jumper the solenoid. I do have a spare relay socket from a car alarm install. They seem to be the same and the numbering (12vdc 30A) is the same also. So before I starting cutting I want your opinion about it.

Thanks again

Yes, that could be the problem if it is burned.

OK... good news. I found the problem. The stator diode broke then shorted. I removed the charging side of the diode and it did not pop the fuse. However. When I turn the key I hear a buzzing sound. What are the chances that the stator is damaged now? I am going to a authorized dealer to get a replacement diode. If I am missing something please let me know. Thanks again