Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn tractor - charging system battery check, battery cables, tractor model

Question
I own a TROY-BILT BOLENS 20 HP lawn tractor (Model 13076-GTX 20).  I purchased it new in 1998.

PROBLEM:  Recently I had to charge the battery because it was not charged enough to crank the engine.  I have had the battery 3 years.

Either the battery is bad, the charging system is bad, or there is a drain on the electrical system.

What do you suggest I do?

Answer
Most likely the battery is bad...they rarely last over 2 years.

Is the battery maintenance free or can you can distilled water by removing the top caps?

I would recommend removing the battery cables and cleaning the terminal ends and battery posts with a wirebrush to ensure they are making a good connection.

Let me know about the battery type.
Eric