My Snapper rider (Yard Cruiser with Joystick) just stopped running as I was cutting my lawn. It would not start, just silence. I replaced the selenoid, starter switch and the safety switch under the seat. The battery is only a few weeks old but if I attach a jumper the Snapper will make a clicking noise when trying to start it.

Is this the starter or something else?

Dan Shelton, October 2006

Try turning the engine over by hand to be sure it's not seized up. I doubt that it is, but to be sure try it.
The engines on the Yard Cruisers are usually Briggs Overhead Valve.
If the exhaust valve slipped out of adjustment the engine will not run, and the starter can not overcome the engine compression to turn it over. Valve clearence is critical on those engines.
There is a steel cap that goes on the end of the valve stem. I've seen those come off. If that happens the valve will not open and you get the same issue.

Rick, October 2006