Snapper Front-engine lawn tractor Parts — Browse All Models

Troubleshooting your Snapper front-engine lawn tractor when it won't start

There are numerous explanations for why a riding lawn mower won't start, including everything from bad gas or a bad battery to a failed starter motor or bad ignition coil.

If you find yourself constantly having to charge the battery before starting the engine, a bad battery or failed alternator could be causing the problem. Connect the battery to a charger and if the battery won't charge fully within 8 hours, then you'll likely need to replace the battery. If the battery is okay, then a problem in the engine's charging system is causing the constantly drained battery. The engine uses an alternator to generate current, which constantly charges the battery and powers the mower's electrical system while the engine runs. When the alternator fails, the battery attempts to power the mower on its own and quickly drains without recharging. Replace the alternator if it isn't charging the battery.

Replacing the ignition switch in your Snapper front-engine lawn tractor

• Park the tractor on a level surface and set the parking brake. Turn the ignition switch off and remove the key.
• Wear work gloves to protect your hands. Lift the seat. Remove the bolt connecting the negative cable to the battery and tuck the cable away from the battery so it doesn't touch the battery post.
• Lift the hood to access the back of the ignition switch. Release the locking tabs and push the switch out though the front of the dash. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the back of the ignition switch; if it's difficult to unplug, wiggle the plug as you pull on it. Remove the ignition switch.
• Connect the wire harness to the back of the ignition switch. Push the new ignition switch into the dash and engage the locking tabs. Lower the hood.
• Reconnect the negative cable to the negative battery terminal. Lower the seat.