I have a Craftsman 12.5 1/C Gold Lawn Mower..model # 286707..type 0441-01..code 9308064D with a briggs and stratton engine model series 286700..I have replaced the battery, battery cable, solenoid and starter..When I turn the key it makes a squeeling noise like something is charging and then a loud click...I installed the solenoid the same way the old one was on, is there a way to tell if possibly I have it on wrong? I put a new battery and used starter on it last year and this year the battery starter to run down about once a week. I would charge it and it would run fine for a week. Then it acted like the starter was going out and then the battery wouldn't take a charge anymore..I was going to put a new alternator on but I can't find it...Help!

Linda, October 2009

Yes, I hope thats the one!

John, October 2009

Hi John..I found a red wire that hooked into some sort of fuse..Is this what your describing...I also found a white connection that actually plugs into a part on the frame, like a electrical plug...Thanks John!

Linda, October 2009

Thats what was odd..when the old battery was charged it would make the squeeling noise but wouldn't turn the starter . When I put the new battery in it squeeled and turned the starter but the engine doesn't crank at all...it just clicks and stops..I have a parts list I downloaded for the engine...is this part your talking about called something else or is it something generic that I could take to farm and fleet and get another?

Linda, October 2009

So, does the engine behave perfectly when a charged up battery is used - with no squealing etc? If so, your engine isn't charging the battery. The alternator, for what it is, is beneath the engine flywheel and you don't need to go there. Look for a red lead coming out of the engine which has a component moulded into it....this is the charging diode and likely to be the problem.

John, October 2009