My Craftsman 18.5 HP, 42" Lawn Tractor Model No 917.273820 won't start. It worked fine at the end of last year. When I tried to start this year I got nothing but a clicking sound, not like a battery clicking, but more of a ratcheting sound. Sounds like it comes from the front area of the motor. I have put it on a trickle charger thinking the battery was dead, but just keep getting the clicking sound as described above.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!!

Mark Hensley, April 2006

I had a similair problem, when the technician came out to fix it he adjusted the valves. Apparently when they are out of adjusmtent it locks the engine and makes it very difficult to start. He said they are supposed to be adjusted about every 30 hours

Nathan, June 2006

If the starter motor is not trying to turn it may be the solenoid.
If the starter motor is trying to turn suspect the starter drive that is on the top of the starter.

Rick, April 2006