batteries won't stay charged

electrycmonk

Member
Joined
Jul 18, 2019
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I have 2 riding mowers and both have the same symptom. Battery wears down after 1.5 to 3 tank fill ups.

Both Craftsman green, both 1999 m/y's (IIRC)
1st is a 16.5HP 42" HST mower
2nd is a 20HP 46" HST mower

I have a feeling the electrical part that keeps a charge going back to the battery is either going or is dead by now. Can't recall how to test the part or where it is. I'm brain dead-tired at this point and should of gone to bed hours ago. Been meaning to post here for a good month or so now. I *know* its something specific to be replaced just can't recall the right terms etc.

thanks in advance y'all & good night too.
 

bertsmobile1

Lawn Royalty
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Nov 29, 2014
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If you want accurate information then we need the numbers from under the seat and the engine make & model numbers.

Quick & dirty test
In the dark with everything turned off remove one battery terminal.
If you see a spark then there is a leakage , usually a blone diode in the charging system.

When you are feeling fresher take the following voltage readings
1) DC across the battery everything off
2) DC voltage across the battery engine running full speed
3) DC voltage across the battery engine running full speed & blades on
AC voltage as per above.
 

electrycmonk

Member
Joined
Jul 18, 2019
Threads
3
Messages
17
If you want accurate information then we need the numbers from under the seat and the engine make & model numbers.

Quick & dirty test
In the dark with everything turned off remove one battery terminal.
If you see a spark then there is a leakage , usually a blone diode in the charging system.

When you are feeling fresher take the following voltage readings
1) DC across the battery everything off
2) DC voltage across the battery engine running full speed
3) DC voltage across the battery engine running full speed & blades on
AC voltage as per above.

That "quick & dirty" & "feeling fresher" notes are perfect..... Diode..... (shakes head in understanding)

as for details on the mowers... I'm sorry for not giving "all relavant data" as it was basicaly 2AM when I posted in a gasp of frustration at self for forgetting so often.....
I'll have the 917.xxxx numbers and spec data when I return as well as the Voltage info too. I should have it tallied this weekend. (fingers crossed)

thanks & good night.
 

Cusser

Well-Known Member
Joined
May 3, 2019
Threads
12
Messages
200
When you are feeling fresher take the following voltage readings
1) DC across the battery everything off
2) DC voltage across the battery engine running full speed
3) DC voltage across the battery engine running full speed & blades on
AC voltage as per above.

I agree with above.
 
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