This is a simplicity regent xl with 22hp b&s engine. It is making a noise once the battery is connected to the negative, with no key in ignition and none of the safety switches open (nobody on seat, brake not pressed).
The noise is from somewhere around the engine but I can see any moving parts. The battery cable is inclined to stick/weld to the battery pole. The noise is a grinding sound and is continuous while the cable connector touches the battery pole.
Either someone has been fooling around with the wiring or you have a short in the wiring harness. Provide us with the tractor model number so we can find a wiring diagram. Should start with a 169 and is located on the frame.
Disconnect the alternator wires and see what happens
A bad rectifier can some times energise the alternator which tries to be come a very bad starter motor.
Either someone has been fooling around with the wiring or you have a short in the wiring harness. Provide us with the tractor model number so we can find a wiring diagram. Should start with a 169 and is located on the frame.