My mower makes a purring sound and will not turn over. I replaced the battery, spark plugs, and air filters with no luck.
If you are turning over the key and it makes a purring sound this normally indicates that is an issue with the starter or the starter cables on the lawnmower. Anytime the starter will tick or purr there is a problem in the starter of a machine just like in your car. You can have your starter checked at most auto parts stores. I would check the starter and do a starter test. You can usually bypass a lawnmower starter and start the mower using a screwdriver. Try this to see if you can bypass the starter or the starter switch to make sure there is an issue with your starter.
It's possible it could also be your solenoid but that may just make a clicking noise.
There are just so many different things that could cause this to happen and it is difficult to keep asking question like;
All I'm saying is there are so many variables that could cause this that I would suggest you talk to a lawn mower 'expert' as they would know what questions to ask and could provide you with step by step instructions on what to try next.
I have some links to lawn mower forums and these people really help a lot of people with mower problems (you see, you are not alone with this type of thing). You can decide on any one forum but if you do not get an answer quickly you can always go to another one (usually they answer right away).
You do have to join the group but that should be no problem. Keep in touch with them as you are most likely going to need them again sometime in the future.
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I have a 12 hp Power Pro riding mower. I cannot get the blade to disengage when I try to start it and it runs battery down.