DEAR HELP SITE,

I have a garage-sale bought John Deere lawn mower. Model number C111HL, ID# 222862 M.

Previous owner informed me that the tractor cuts grass but after cutting several yards it loses power and stops. I have recharged the battery, replaced the fuel filter and spark plug and removed excess oil from the crankcase. The engine will not turn over, but does "click" but does not turn the starter. If you have any suggestions I would greatly appreciate it as I do not know what PM was done on the unit nor do I have a maintenance manual.

Your assistance is greatly appreciated. Thank you very much.

Steve Samuel

Hi,
Sounds like unrelated problems occurring here. This is an old machine, a 111 with 11 HP Briggs engine and 38" deck. I gather that the numbers come from a tag on the backside of the console and steering column. Losing power sounds to be a fuel or ignition related problem. Amachine this old could have fuel lines that are going to pieces internally.
The clicking sounds to be a bad solenoid.
Best I can tell, the mower is a 1983 model. You can look up parts for it at JDParts at:
John Deere - Parts Catalog (http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.HomePa geServlet_Alt)
Just type in 111 and pick 1699 - the choice of 108, 111, 111H and 112L.
Peace,
Clarke