I have a John Deere riding mower, model L118, and it cranks forever before it starts. Quite often the battery goes dead from cranking and I have to jump start it. How do you position your gas feed and choke levers when starting this machine? Also, is there any reason the battery does not charge when I am running the mower in normal use?

High revs and choke out, turn ignition until it "coughs" then push choke in and it should start. If the battery is not charging you have to check the connection from the alternator and make sure the belt is tight from engine to alternator. Make sure you have clean fuel.

Hi Donchuch,
I had a problem like yours with a briggs 12 hp motor. The battery was not strong enough to turn it over fast enough. New battery problem solved.
Hope this helps but do check your charging system.
Mike

My john deere lt135 fails to start ichecked the battery ,battery OK clicking sound coming from ingition .do you have any ideas for this poblem .