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    derb386's Avatar
    derb386 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Aug 14, 2011, 07:08 PM
    Mower problem
    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
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #2

    Aug 14, 2011, 07:20 PM

    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?
    derb386's Avatar
    derb386 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Aug 14, 2011, 07:28 PM
    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.
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    derb386 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #4

    Aug 16, 2011, 06:37 PM
    I did as you said and did not hear anything.
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #5

    Aug 17, 2011, 08:06 AM

    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?
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    derb386 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #6

    Aug 17, 2011, 08:09 AM
    No. When I turn the key all the way nothing happens it is totally silent.
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #7

    Aug 17, 2011, 08:13 AM

    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.
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    derb386 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #8

    Aug 17, 2011, 08:19 AM
    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?
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #9

    Aug 17, 2011, 08:24 AM

    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.
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    derb386 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #10

    Aug 17, 2011, 08:30 AM
    I'll let you know what I end up doing and what happens. Thanks for all the help
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #11

    Aug 17, 2011, 08:37 AM

    DG and/or Crigby may stop by with more ideas. They are a notch or 2 above me when it comes to mowers.
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    DG Posts: 1,375, Reputation: 109
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    #12

    Aug 17, 2011, 09:06 PM
    Sounds like you blew the in line fuse.check near the battery or solenoid this is where it should be..
    Luck
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