I have a 2003 MTD model 693 42" riding mower that won't start. I have installed a new battery and a new solenoid. When I turn the key, there is no click at solenoid. I checked with test light and no power to the small terminal. Checking the ignition switch, there is one terminal that is constantly hot, When the switch is turned to on, two terminals hot and when switch turned to start 3, but no click, nothing. Any ideas where to check next? Thanks

Does your test light light up if it is on the wire connection on the starter when you turn the ignition switch to the start position?

Hi, No power to either small wire on solenoid nor the starter post when key turned to start.

Have you tried jumping across the two top post of the solenoid? Most people use a screwdriver or two to do this. However, I am not most people and I respect my tools, that is what I make a living with after all. So, you can use a piece of battery cable about 10" long stripped on each end about 1/2" and bend it in a "U" shape, then touch both of the top post with each end. Have the key in the run/on position when doing this and be sure the clutch/brake is fully depressed and locked.

Hi Mowerman, I get some activity when I jump the posts on solenoid, but it seems like the motor is really dragging, it barely turns the engine over (battery is full charge). That's the only activity I get unless I hook charger directly to starter. Thanks

When you hook directly to the starter does the engine turn over fast like it should? If yes, then you either have a bad solenoid, bad grounding where the solenoid mounts to the frame, or corroded cables.

Hi again. No, it seems to be dragging when either jumping at the solenoid or hooking up directly at the starter now. Awhile back, the original battery went bad, and I was jump starting it using my battery charger. It seems like there's a wire fried somewhere. Like I said, using a testlight, nothing happens at the solenoid when ign key turned on, or to start.

Hmm, could be a wiring problem, try this, rotate the engine by hand on the screen counterclockwise, then try to turn over engine. Starter bendix gear may be staying hung up on the ringgear under the flywheel. Or you may need to set your valves. But first we have to locate the electrical problem. Check all safety switches. Work deck engagement handle or button, work clutch/brake pedal, and the gear lever and have the ignition key in the start position while doing this.

Try to put the ignition key in the start position and work the blade engagement, the clutch/brake pedal, and the gear selector to see if you have any different results. And as far as the starter turning the engine slowly when you jump straight to it, it could be either the starter bendix gear is staying up and engaged onto the flywheel's ring gear, or the valves need adjusted.
Could be a wire as you think also. Lets just do a process of elimination.

Hi again Mowerman. I cleaned all the grounds, adjusted the mower deck safety switch and she runs! Thanks for all your help. I have another question for you though, if you don't mind. When the machine is running, I have to keep the throttle almost to choke position, if I try to cut back on the throttle, she starts surging and backfireing. Any ideas on this? Thanks again

Remove the carb bowl and clean it out, sounds like you have a little moisture and or "trash" in the fuel. Whens the last time the fuel filter has been changed?