Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): CHARGING SYSTEM FOR MURREY WIDE BODY LAWNMOWER, keyswitch, starter generator

Question
MICHAEL,
 I HAVE A MURREY RIDING LAWNMOWER.  I CAN NOT START MY MOWER WITH THE KEY BUT I MUST HAVE THE KEY ON TO JUMP START MY MOWER WITH A WIRE RUNNING FROM THE BATTERY TO A TOGGLE SWITCH AND THEM TO THE STARTER UNING THE TOGGLE SWITCH TO START IT.  I AM HAVING TROUBLE WITH MY BATTERY STAYING CHARGED.  WHAT PART OF THE SYSTEM RECHARGES THE BATTERY.WHEN THE BATTERY IS DISCONNECTED IT WILL STAY CHARGED.

Answer
Hi Danny,

One of two charging systems are typical.  Either coil charging, that comes from inside the flywheel or a starter/generator.  Either way, the charging wire goes to the battery.  Sometimes through the keyswitch. It sounds like the keyswitch is faulty.  I would replace it, if all the other wiring is okay.

Good luck,
Michael