Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftman Tractor cuts out, craftsman model, jumper wire

Question
I have a Craftsman model 917.273143 42" deck 17 HP Kohler engine.  We have to jumpstart the tractor every time to start it.  I replaced the battery which seemed to correct the issue but after 1 month we are back to jump starts.  Then we take off the parking brake and the motor cuts out.  Help!

Thank you.

Answer
Ted

You obviously have a battery drain problem.  To confirm this recharge the battery fully.  Put it back in your tractor.  Now in a dimly lit garage remove the NEGATIVE (black) cable.

Do you see spark?  This indicates there is a electrical battery drain.

Now we need to isolate it.

Start by unplugging the safety switch under the tractor frame by the clutch/parking brake then redo the test.  IF you have the same result continue throughout the interlock system checking all switches.  

There is a slim possibility the stator which is under the flywheel is shorted.

As far as releasing your brake and your engine kiling that is definitely a safety switch issue.  Check this switch out for loose connections. and if that is okay make a jumper wire to bypass the switch for TESTING ONLY and then see if it still quits.  If so just buy a new switch.

Thanks...

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