I've got a Craftsman riding mower with a Briggs & Stratton 10 horse motor in it. Engine model # 220707. The mower is over 10 years old I believe. The starter doesn't spin at all, but when I turn the key, it buzzes or hums. What do I do?

Dustin Kinser, May 2006

is your battery backwards?

Big Harry Turd, June 2006

It could be a stuck pinion gear as Bill says.
But if the pinion is moving freely and the starter still won't spin, it may be the brushes in the starter mower. New brushes aren't expensive, but they are difficult to install without the right tools.

Rick, May 2006

Dear Dustin, If your starter hums or buzzes it usually means that your starter is ok, I mean it, appears that your worm gear on top of the starter is worn out. Remove the cover on top of the starter ,then check to see if the gear is stuck. Use a flat screwdriver to pry up the gear and if that doesn't work you will have to remove the old gear and replace it The gear has a pin through its center. use a punch to knock it out A new gear cost about 5.00 hope this helps good luck

Bill, May 2006