How To Troubleshoot Starter Solenoid. Turn the key on the ignition as if you were starting the riding mower and read the voltmeter. If the meter reads 0 volts there is an open.
Unplug the small control circuit wire at the solenoid terminal. Power is applied to the solenoid low-voltage terminals and the piston travels back simultaneously bridging the contacts to the starter motor and pulling back on the lever to engage the pinion gear. Choose the small wire.
Now disconnect the starter solenoid from the starter itself by unbolting the two large bolts.
Here is a quick video on how to test a Starter and Solenoid assembly using just a screwdriver jumper wires and a 12v battery. The two wires on the back of the starter solenoid connect to the metal contacts. To check that the solenoid is receiving power connect a test light to the solenoid terminal. Troubleshooting the Starter.
