I have a Sears 917.254360 that won't start. Brand new battery and key switch. Current goes to the solenoid. When I turn the key, should I have current going to the small center post of the solenoid to allow current to continue to the starter? Maybe a safety switch? Please help.
Trey

There are 3 safety swtches on that mower. This may help http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/part-model/Craftsman-Parts/Riding-mower-tractor-Parts/Model-917254360/0247/1509200/00043969/00001?blt=06&prst=0&shdMod=917254360 and this will help too because you must confirm the solenoid too YouTube - ‪How to test a lawn mower solenoid‬‏ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MsvJMnpQBas)

I bypassed the safety switches to eliminate them as a problem. Still, no current will go to the small post on the solenoid. Current goes to the first post of the solenoid and that's where it stops. What does the diode do with all of this? Is there a way to check the relay?

Still Stuck

Bypassed the safety switches. Brand new battery and key switch. Current goes to the solenoid and stops. Should current be going to the center post of the solenoid when I turn the key?

Please help
Trey

Trey, we will try to get this merged with your post from yesterday. Do not start a new thread each time you want to say/ask something. Just type inside the box below. In the meantime try this to see if your solenoid is shot, I think it is. How to Jump Solenoid With Screwdriver | eHow.com (http://www.ehow.com/how_5762451_jump-solenoid-screwdriver.html)

Some safety switches are closed switches and some are open so jumping them doesn't help.
Get a test light turn swich to on check each switch and see if current is passing through ,or you can use a ohms meter and check your switches this is what I do.
Luck