The questions and answers are somewhat different than my problem. I have a Sears lawn tractor model# 917.271041 16 H.P. approximately 10 years old with a Kohler engine. It worked fine until I shut it off and tried starting it about an hour later. There was no sound when the key was turned on. I jumped the two main terminals on the solenoid with the key on in the run position and it started fine.
Assuming it had a bad solenoid, I purchased a new one and installed it. It did not change the situation. I reviewed all the wireing and switches but could see any problems. The 30 amp fuse also was good.
Any suggestions?

Hello Bob1517:

From your Description it Sounds like a Safety Switch or the Relay Under the Seat is BAd or Not Making a Good Connection. The Following is an Instruction File for the Safety Switch System. Any Input is Appreciated. The Color Code of the Wires May be Different than those I Use as a Reference in the Instruction File. **PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHECKING THE SAFETY SWITCHES IS JUST THAT!! FOR CHECKING ONLY. I NEVER Suggest a Mower be Operated with a Safety Device or Switch Disconnected or Bypassed. Now. On Some Model Mowers you can Simply Unplug the Safety Switch from the Harness. On Other Models you have to Place a Jumper Wire Between the Harness Terminals (on the 4 Post Switch (Clutch/Brake) Jumper from Same Color Wire white to White First and then Check for Fire, Now Include the Black to Black Wires if No Fire. Check the Clutch/Brake and the Blade/PTO Safety Switches First. Check the Seat Safety Last. Usually the Seat Safety is Not in the System for Starting the Engine. Just to Ensure Someone is in the Seat when Engaging the Transaxle and/or Blades. Use a Paper Clip or a Short Wire to Make a Jumper.** Please, Do Not Hesitate, If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem, I am Here if You Require More Assistance.
Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John