The solenoid will have two big posts and one or two small posts. Mark and remove the wires from the small posts. If you have one small post you can hook up a jumper wire from the + side of the battery to the small post and it should make the starter crank over. If it has two small posts hook one jumper from the + side of the battery to one of the small posts and another jumper from the - side of the battery to the other small post. If it is OK it will engage the starter. If you get nothing then the solenoid is bad.
If it is a riding mower it may have a blown fuse. They are usually located near the solenoid.
I assume you are talking about the starter solenoid: Follow the positive battery cable from the battery - the other end will be connected to the starter solenoid.
Find your model number and look for wiring diagram at sonnysbolens.com
Here is a link to a store that sells them. There is a good picture that you can use to identify the solenoid. http://www.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=3160204.
I assume you mean a starter solenoid. Look at how the old one is hooked up. Put the new one in that way. ...and disconnect the battery first.
Like any power switch you have Power in, Ground, Switched Power out and the Switch Terminal.
Can I do it myself, set the timing on my riding mower.
Contact Sears or check their web site.
Disconnect the solenoid wire, turn the bowl counter clockwise. No tools are needed.
Depending on what model mower you have, there could be several problems. But, start by checking the fuse. Most mowers have a fuse that is located near the starter solenoid.
john deere smallest riding lawn mower
Look for loose connections at the battery, starter solenoid, starter and switch. If all connections are good, the starter solenoid probably needs to be replaced.