I have a sears model 917.257470 and it doesn't charge the battery or light up the lights. Where do I find the charging system

Does it start OK, if so then your battery is OK and the lights should be working. You may have a blown fuse. http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/part-model/Craftsman-Parts/Riding-mower-tractor-Parts/Model-917257470/0247/1509200/00054213/00001?blt=06&prst=0&shdMod=917257470

Charges from a stator under the flywheel .
Lights work off stator also.
Have battery tested.if battery good .check stator,
What model engine do you have..

Thank you guys... The battery and the tractor start well when the battery is charged but after about a month or so it won't start any more and I have to charge it again. I'm used to automobile engines where the generator/altenator are right out in the open and run off a belt. I've never had the chance to get inside engines like these. I did see that there is a 30 amp fuse in the harness so I will check fuse first then the stator.