I have a 42" craftsman riding mower and the other day I was mowing my lawn and my mower was running totally normal, then out of nowhere it just quit. It didn't make any abnormal sounds when it quit. Any idea what the problem could be? When I go to start it doesent make a sound nor do the lights turn on I also
Just put a new battery in it, the oil is a good level, any help is appreciated

Thanks

Lots of dectective work ahead. Let's start with this. Put your ear as near as possible to the small solenoid under the carb bowl and then turn the key to ON. Did you hear a click or not?

I will try tomorrow and let you know. Obviously I have tried to start it and its been silent but I will double check tomorrow.

I did as you said and did not hear anything.

OK that tells me the solenoid is not opening to allow fuel to flow to the carb. When you turn the key all the way does the enigine turn over as normal but fails to start?

No. When I turn the key all the way nothing happens it is totally silent.

Sounds like we are narrowing it down to an electrical issue. What model do you have, usually starts with 917.XXXXXX If you are handy and have some 12 volt test leads you can start by confirming you have 12+ volts reaching the iginition switch and then by turning the key passing on that 12+ to the coil.

Hmm I don't have any test leads and I'm not very handy with electrical. Maybe I should take it to a mower shop?

Sears does a very good job with repairs but a Sears mower is very common and any good shop should be able to find the problem. A test lead may only cost $10 at a hardware store or auto parts shop. Your mower also has 3 safety switches to prevent you from starting it in an unsafe condition like blade already engaged or not sitting in the seat. Any failure with the switches will kill the engine cold. Its always a matter of time and $$$. If your grass is getting tall and the test leads doesn't sound like its up your alley then the shop is the place to go.

I'll let you know what I end up doing and what happens. Thanks for all the help

DG and/or Crigby may stop by with more ideas. They are a notch or 2 above me when it comes to mowers.

Sounds like you blew the in line fuse.check near the battery or solenoid this is where it should be..
Luck