Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere 185 lawnmower doesnt charge the battery, john deere 185, kawasaki engine

Question
My John Deere 185 lawnmower with a Kawasaki engine is not charging. I replaced the voltage regulator but that didn't solve the problem. The light on the dash stays on. What else might I look at? And how does this motor generate electricity? Is it using the starter motor for that?

Answer
Hi Bruce,

You are on the right track.  Some engines do use a starter/generator.  I'm not sure exactly how to test them but I think if you check the voltage coming from the charging lead at the starter, you should get an output.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael