turn start key- ratchetting noise from solenoid ? and engine will not turn over and fire

w. p. bell, April 2009

Usually caused by a weak battery or cable corrosion. Put your mower battery on a charger and when the charger indicates the battery is recharged, try to start. If the solenoid still chatters, try jumping from your car battery. If it cranks well with the car battery, then you should probably replace the mower batttery. If it still chatters, check the pos. wires twixt battery, to solenoid and solenoid to starter (both red) , as well as Neg. ground wire (black)

Gary Zerbst, June 2009

Recharge or renew the battery. Remove corrosion and dirt from battery connections, smear with petroleum jelly to prevent future hassle with corrosion on these. Clean up all connections to starter and refit, covering with petroleum jelly. As Mr Toad says, clean up and tighten the earthing leads as well. Check that the charging system is actually charging the battery. Should show about 14.5 volts across battery terminals with engine running. Consider fitting an isolator switch (on battery earth lead) to prevent loss of battery power. when machine is idle. Also reduces fire risk if shorts are possible.

Roy Gamlin, April 2009

Battery low or faulty, or bad connections on battery terminals.
Check all connections between battery and starter are clean and tight and main engine earth also.

Mr. Toad, April 2009